Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement Project

One of our most important projects to date is in the final stages in Islamorada. 

Project Summary:

  • In April 2023, we began installing a new transmission main to replace the existing, original main that’s approximately 40-years-old.
  • Following the clearance notice from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the new transmission main was activated on July 29, 2024.
  • All 22,152 linear feet of new, 36-inch cathodically protected pipe have been installed between MM 79.5 and MM 84, and now work will focus on restoration and final clean-up in the area.

Click here to view the project work plan. 

Permanent Road Striping

Paving is complete and crews will begin permanently striping the roadway on January 21, 2025. Striping will take place at night and take approximately 7 to 10 days to complete. A rolling lane closure will be in effect for this work.

Safety reminders

  • The Florida Department of Transportation doesn't permit left-hand turns in the work zone.
  • Continue past your destination, make a U-Turn when legal to do so, and make a right-hand turn into your destination.
  • The speed limit is 35 MPH through the work zone.

Why did the transmission main have to be replaced? 

Because clean drinking water is a MUST. As pipes age, they become more susceptible to corrosion, leaks, storm surge, and other effects.

Why was this project a modern marvel? 

Get ready, we are about to geek out here. 
 
 The new, 36-inch diameter cathodically protected steel water main was installed via open-cut trench installation. Cathodically protected means the pipe will be protected from corrosion. In the Keys, we have aggressive soils and subterranean tidal flows that submerge and expose the pipeline to corrosive conditions, and this method ensures the pipe’s not compromised. 
 
The project also included connections to existing mains and master taps. New transmission mains were installed at the Teatable Relief and Whale Harbor bridge crossings via horizontal directional drill (HDD) as well. This means the transmission main was installed underwater, protecting it from high winds and storm surges.

How much did this project cost?

The Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement project cost approximately $42 million, with $20 million funded by grants and the balance funded through low-interest loans. 

Stay Connected!

If you have questions about the Plantation Key Transmission Main Replacement Project, please email a local FKAA customer service representative at community@fkaa.com. After-hours support is available at (305) 296-2454.

Follow the FKAA on Facebook and X (Twitter) for updates.

Contracted Partners for this Project

  • Wade Trim: Performing design and construction management services. 
  • Michels Pipeline: Performing open-cut trench installation. 
  • DBE Utility Services: Performing Teatable Relief subaqueous crossing. 
  • DBE Utility Services: Performing Whale Harbor subaqueous crossing.