Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Opening of New Reverse Osmosis Facility in the Florida Keys
The Floridant/10303675

New Disaster ~ Key West, Florida - In a move to enhance disaster resilience and ensure access to clean drinking water during emergencies, Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the opening of the Kermit H. Lewin Stock Island Reverse Osmosis Facility. The state-of-the-art seawater desalination plant, funded through a $30.7 million grant from the Florida Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program and matched by the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, will serve Key West and the Lower Florida Keys.

With a total cost of $47 million, this project marks a significant milestone in Florida's long-term infrastructure and disaster resilience efforts. "I was in the Florida Keys to announce the opening of this new facility that will produce clean drinking water for Key West and the Lower Keys," said Governor DeSantis. "Since 2019, we've committed over $80 million to water quality and infrastructure in the Florida Keys - with more to come."

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The Kermit H. Lewin Stock Island Reverse Osmosis Facility replaces the previous plant that was damaged during Hurricane Irma. It is fortified with storm-resilient materials, elevated construction, and a hardened design to withstand future disasters. While it will not operate daily, it will be activated during emergencies or peak demand, ensuring continuous water service when the pipeline from Florida City is compromised.

This project is part of a larger series of investments in the Florida Keys. Last month, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection awarded over $9 million through the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern Grant Program for wastewater treatment upgrades, canal restoration, and stormwater improvements. Since 2019, more than $80 million has been directed by the state towards protecting water quality and critical infrastructure in the Keys.

The new Kermit H. Lewin Stock Island Reverse Osmosis Facility is expected to provide reliable access to clean drinking water for residents of Key West and the Lower Keys during emergencies, further strengthening the state's disaster resilience efforts. With continued investments in water quality and infrastructure, Florida is taking proactive steps to protect its communities and ensure their well-being during times of crisis.

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