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News Item
24 Oct 2004
State Announces Plan to Accelerate Everglades Projects
Accelerating Everglades restoration has remained a major priority for the implementing agencies since the restoration plan was approved by Congress. Streamlining processes and consolidating staff efforts into Regional Project Delivery Teams have produced some degree of success.
On October 14, Florida Governor Jeb Bush announced that the State will do its part to facilitate speeding up restoration projects by through an expedited course of action called “Acceler8.” The program consists of eight projects (some with multiple components) that, when completed, will provide immediate environmental, flood control and water supply benefits. These projects will serve as the initial foundation for other comprehensive restoration efforts to follow.
The Acceler8 concept allows for a “dual track” of study and implementation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will continue to meet its responsibility required by federal law to do analysis and planning that meets many regulations, including those included in the Endangered Species Act. Concurrently, the South Florida Water Management District will move ahead with project design, so that when the federal steps are complete and the “Project Implementation Report” is complete, design will lead to almost immediate implementation.
One of the most significant components of the acceleration plan relates to state funding of projects. The state will finance project construction with “Certificates of Participation” revenue bonding. This method of finance is favored by the state over the “pay as you go” approach.
For more information click on www.evergladesnow.org.
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