FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 27 , 2022
CONTACT Thomas Wilmouth Office of Representative Robin Bartleman Thomas . Wilmouth @ myfloridahouse . gov ( 954 ) 424-6829
Governor Signs Bill to Accelerate Upgrades to South Florida ’ s Aging Flood Control System
Tallahassee , Fla – Yesterday , Governor signed into law HB 513 / SB 1326 , championed by Representative Robin Bartleman ( D-Weston ), Representative Demi Busatta Cabrera ( R- Coral Gables ) and Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez ( R- Homestead ). The legislation establishes a comprehensive study of the infrastructural needs and funding gaps of the Central and Southern Florida ( C & SF ) Flood Control Project .
The C & SF Project protects South Florida ’ s 11 million residents , its economy , and the South Florida Aquifer , and maintains the well-being of the Everglades . However , the C & SF Project is currently under substantial stress due to more intense rainfall and rising sea levels , and requires reevaluation focused on existing and future conditions .
“ Sea level rise is a threat for communities across Florida and not just those nearest the coast . This legislation recognizes and prioritizes a flood control system that protects the homes , businesses , and lives of millions of everyday Floridians ,” said Kate Wesner , Florida Director of the American Flood Coalition .
The population served by the C & SF Project is expected to grow to 15 million over the next 30 years . Southeast Florida has an annual GDP of $ 359 billion , according to the Business Case for Resilience in Southeast Florida Study conducted by the Urban Land Institute , which also projects significant decreases in jobs , lost sales and tourism revenues due to the negative impacts of unaddressed sea level rise . In a no-action scenario , flooding from sea level rise in coming decades could result in more than $ 4.2 billion in property value loss , including property damages due to storm events .
[ View the WSVN report on this issue ] [ Read the Sun Sentinel article on this issue ]
“ South Florida has always been my home ,” said Representative Bartleman , “ and this law takes decisive action to protect our community for the generations to come . The successful operation of our flood control system is critical to daily life in South Florida and even today the system is being challenged . We must adapt to rising sea levels and enhance flood protection to protect our 11 million residents and one-third of Florida ’ s economy by retrofitting and retooling our water
14 DITCHMEN • MAY 2022