Florida Construction News staff writer

The Biscayne Bay Water Quality Improvement grant program will receive $20 million from the State to restore water quality in the bay.

“The Biscayne Bay is a hub for sport and commercial fishing and tourism,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement. “Our comprehensive approach to addressing water quality statewide and our investments in targeted estuaries, such as the Biscayne Bay, Indian River Lagoon and the Caloosahatchee, will ensure Florida’s economic vitality and Floridians’ way of life for decades to come.”

Legislation was signed in 2021 to expedite water quality improvements in this area, establishing the Biscayne Bay Commission, which ensures that objective and sound science informs decision-making regarding the bay.

“Biscayne Bay is Florida’s largest estuary and it has a direct connection to Florida’s Coral Reef,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton. “Restoring this vital ecosystem is critical to not only ensure healthy fisheries, but also to safeguard the natural buffer along this populated coastline.”

Projects will include wastewater improvements (including septic-to-sewer), stormwater management and other projects that will help improve water quality in Biscayne Bay.