Residents of Key Biscayne are increasingly frustrated with extensive detours on Harbor Drive, as well as adjacent streets leading to St. Christopher’s By-the-Sea Church.
The ongoing construction at 95 Harbor Drive, which was expected to be a brief disruption, has now dragged on for several weeks, prompting inquiries to Islander News from concerned residents.
In response to these concerns, representatives from the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) provided updates regarding the project, addressing both the delays and the purpose behind the ongoing work.
Initially, the construction was anticipated to only require a short period. However, unforeseen issues have complicated the timeline.
According to WASD, upgrades to sanitary sewer pump stations typically take between 200 to 250 days to complete.
While efforts were made to limit traffic disturbances to just one week, unexpected complications arose.
One significant issue was the need to repair an 8-inch sewer force main valve located at the intersection of Crandon Boulevard and Harbor Drive.
Moreover, during excavation, crews discovered an unidentified active utility line, leading to additional unplanned work and extending the closures on weekday lanes for about three weeks.
WASD acknowledged the inconvenience these delays have caused for residents, businesses, and commuters in the area.
In an effort to alleviate some of the traffic challenges, the Department has begun coordinating with local authorities.
Starting next week, crews are set to transition to overnight work to minimize disruption during the day and to ensure that access is maintained during peak travel times.
However, temporary short-term road closures may still be necessary in order to complete specific tasks, including final restoration efforts.
WASD has assured the community that they will attempt to schedule all such activities at night, unless safety or equipment issues arise.
Residents will be notified in advance of any upcoming closures, keeping the lines of communication open throughout the construction process.
The purpose of the project itself is to upgrade Pump Station 132 to meet modern requirements and protect public health.
Sanitary sewer pump stations typically have a lifecycle of 20 to 25 years, and it is crucial to undertake rehabilitation or upgrades at the end of this cycle.
Such actions are necessary not only for regulatory compliance but also to prevent sewer overflows that could pose health hazards.
WASD plans to modernize the electrical and mechanical systems at the pumping station, enhancing its ability to handle heavy rain and high tides.
Once the construction is finished, new landscaping will restore the site, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.
These improvements will increase the station’s capacity, reliability, and efficiency, ultimately helping to prevent service interruptions and potential sewer spills.
Residents can look forward to a future of dependable wastewater service, thanks to these critical upgrades.
However, some local residents have expressed skepticism about the benefits of the project, with claims that it primarily serves St. Christopher’s.
WASD clarified that this project is not limited to a single institution; rather, Pump Station 132 serves a wide area and processes roughly 55,440 gallons of wastewater per day.
The upgrades will, in fact, enhance service reliability for all residents and businesses in the vicinity.
WASD has been proactive in engaging with local stakeholders, including businesses in Harbor Plaza, to address their concerns regarding the project and mitigate traffic disruptions.
In these discussions, representatives from the Miami-Dade County Commission and the Village of Key Biscayne Police Department were also included in an effort to ensure comprehensive communication.
While residents are eager for the project to be completed, it remains to be seen how much longer the construction will take.
Further updates from WASD will hopefully provide clarity and reassurance as the work continues.
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