A lengthy endeavor to replace outdated and worn water transmission main through a majority of Islamorada was completed last week.
In March 2025, contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority began work to install 6 miles of new and larger steel water pipe from the north end of Snake Creek Bridge to Julep Road in Tavernier. The age of the existing pipes made them susceptible to corrosion, leaks, storm surge and other effects.
With the existing pipe being beyond its lifespan, the new pipe is designed to be protected from corrosion. A new transmission main was also installed underwater at Tavernier Creek Bridge to prevent deterioration from potential storms.
Aaron Cutler, project manager, told Islamorada council members at a May 12 meeting that the most recent project on Plantation Key to Tavernier saw 34,362 feet of transmission main successfully installed. Cutler’s statement was met with resounding applause from residents in attendance for the meeting.
“I can’t say enough how much I appreciate the public, the council and the patience and support you’ve shown,” Cutler said.
A small section of U.S. 1 near Julep Road remained closed on May 13 to allow for some final work. Otherwise, northbound traffic lanes on U.S. 1 in Tavernier were fully reopened for smooth traffic flow. In addition, the intersection at Creekside Inn and U.S. 1 in Islamorada was reopened after being shut down to allow for a better traffic flow.
Cutler said there’s still a bit more work ahead before the project reaches 100% completion. Now through June, crews will be working to connect the new pipe to the existing system at six points. Those areas include Julep Road and Old Highway, north of Tavernier Creek Crossing, near the Creekside Inn and U.S. 1 intersection, south of Plantation Key School, in front of Founders Park, and north of Snake Creek Bridge.
No night work will be taking place, as Cutler said crews will be working during the day on the connections. Once that work is completed, paving and restoration will conclude the project.
Pipe installation was originally scheduled to be completed in March 2026. It wasn’t done until May, however, due to delays from high groundwater levels, especially during king tides. There were also some unforeseen utility line conflicts.
Mayor Don Horton said while it’s been a long endeavor, the contractors and FKAA deserved a hand for their work.
Work to replace the old water transmission main dates back to 2023 when crews began installing 22,152 linear feet of new, 36-inch pipe between MM 79.5 and MM 84. The first transmission main project in Islamorada cost about $42 million, with $20 million funded by grants and the balance funded through low-interest loans.
Next, a mile and a half of the existing 30-inch transmission main was replaced on Windley Key beginning in May 2024. That project cost $15 million.
FKAA is now shifting its focus to replace water transmission main at Channel 2 Bridge. The village recently agreed to apply for a Community Development Block Grant administered by FloridaCommerce to help FKAA fund costs associated with installing 2,200 linear feet of transmission main beneath the water at Channel 2 Bridge. It’s expected to cost $4.8 million.
