Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) is continuing its replacement of old water pipe throughout the Upper Keys. Another project is slated for 2024 on Windley Key.
On Dec. 12, FKAA’s board of directors approved the construction, management and engineering services contracts for the Windley Key transmission main replacement project. About 8,250 feet (about a mile and a half) of the existing 30-inch transmission main on Windley Key will be replaced with a new 36-inch cathodically protected steel water main. Work will take place from Whale Harbor bridge crossing to just south of Snake Creek.
“Staying proactive when it comes to ensuring uninterrupted access to clean drinking water remains our top priority,” said Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director. “The transmission main replacement work in Windley Key represents the next phase in our efforts to harden our system to address future needs.”
With work slated to begin in April 2024, it will take crews about one year to replace the transmission main in Windley Key. Crews will work 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday, and pause work for major holidays and events. While temporary rolling lane closures are expected at certain project intervals, northbound and southbound traffic flows will be maintained throughout the project. Bike lanes will also remain open and access to all businesses will be maintained.
The new water main, installed via open-cut trench, will be connected to existing mains and master taps. The new pipe will be fully protected from the corrosive effects of aggressive soils and subterranean tidal flows.
The Windley Key project will cost about $15 million. The project will be partially funded by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014 (WIFIA), a federal credit program.More information is available by scanning the QR code, as well as from FKAA on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) or from FKAA customer service at 833-588-5865 or via email to community@fkaa.com. After-hours support is available at 305-296-2454.
