U.S. Senator Marco Rubio yesterday urged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take the necessary measures to ensure Florida’s coral reefs are accounted for during the upcoming Port Everglades project that will allow the port to accommodate larger ships.
In a letter to Jacksonville District Commander, Colonel Jason A. Kirk, Rubio highlighted the important role the reefs play in protecting the coastline from storms, providing an important habitat to many species, and as an economic driver to the state through tourism.
“ Stakeholders have expressed concerns for the forthcoming Port Everglades project, which is vital to ensuring the port can accommodate larger ships needed for the increase in commerce ,” said Rubio in the letter.
” Economic growth and protecting habitats do not need to be mutually exclusive. For this reason, I respectfully request assurances that the Army Corps of Engineers is taking the necessary measures to ensure the corals are accounted for and properly protected during the Port Everglades deepening and widening project. ”
Addressing the concerns raised by local stakeholders will ensure this project can move forward without delay.