“We are thrilled to welcome Vice President Biden to the Everglades and applaud the Administration’s leadership for restoring America’s Everglades. We have seen unprecedented progress for Everglades restoration over the last three years. Construction of a one mile bridge is already underway and we must continue this momentum, by funding the 5.5 miles of additional bridging for Tamiami Trail recently authorized by Congress. Elevating Tamiami Trail is vital to protect critical habitat, restore historic water flows into Everglades National Park and ensure America’s Everglades is a legacy preserved for future generations. 

“America’s Everglades is one of the world’s most diverse and productive wetlands and is a tremendous economic generator for the state. Everglades restoration is a sound investment for this Administration to make. Over the last three years, restoration projects have generated 10,500 jobs with more than 442,000 jobs expected to be created over the next several decades in tourism, real estate and commercial and recreational fishing industries. A recent study by the Everglades Foundation found that for every dollar invested in Everglades restoration, $4 is generated in economic benefits to the public. In addition, Everglades National Park alone generates more than $165 million in visitor spending each year. 

“We are confident that the Vice President’s visit demonstrates that Everglades restoration will remain a priority for this Administration.  We applaud their commitment to restore the River of Grass, providing clean water to millions of residents, and creating thousands of jobs, including construction jobs, in southern Florida.

“Now, more than 10 years after the original Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan was adopted by Congress, Everglades restoration projects are well under way.  Critical next steps include bridging an additional 5.5 miles of Tamiami Trail to restore vital water flows to one of America’s greatest treasures – Everglades National Park.”

###