$20 Million Transportation Grant for Tamiami Trail to Advance Everglades Restoration

“We are thrilled by big news today that the National Park Service and the Florida Department of Transportation will receive $20 million through a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grant. Bridging Tamiami Trail has been a priority for NPCA for more than a decade and is a key component to Everglades restoration. Today’s investment will provide much needed funding to bridge the additional approved 2.6-miles along Tamiami Trail, which has for many years served as a road barrier, blocking critical freshwater flows south into Everglades National Park and Florida Bay. Earlier this year, the state of Florida committed $90 million over three years and the funds awarded today are critical to ensure a groundbreaking in 2014.

“Tamiami Trail is a worthy recipient of the federal TIGER grant and the investment in additional bridging will deliver long-term outcomes to continue the momentum for restoring America’s Everglades, as well as provide safety, economic benefits, and environmental sustainability to South Florida. This critical infrastructure project will create green jobs needed for south Florida’s economic recovery. We applaud the ongoing leadership of Senator Nelson, the Florida congressional delegation, the National Park Service, and Transportation Secretary Foxx to restore America’s Everglades and to secure this funding.“

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.