Project Details
PD&E study and Design for potential replacement of US 98 bridge over the Kissimmee River. The Kissimmee River was part of the largest river restoration projects, costing more than $1 billion over many years. As part of the Everglades, the restoration ensured clear water flows through the River of Grass. The Kissimmee River was nominated in 2023 as a Wild and Scenic River.
Tasks
• PDE/Design Overlap
• Wetland delineation
• SFWMD ERP and Corps 404
• Listed species surveys and permitting
• Wild and Scenic River Coordination (NPS/OEM)
• 4F property evaluation
Service
PD&E Study
County
Highlands and Okeechobee Counties, Florida
Project Highlights
Agency coordination due to Wild and Scenic River study designation
Wetland impacts
Species surveys
Challenges and Solutions
Our team coordinated with the Office of Environmental Management (OEM) and the National Park Service (NPS) to determine if it was eligible for a Type I vs Type II Categorical Exclusion.
Several historic and archaeological resources (Pearce-Lockett Estate, Fort Basinger historical marker) were evaluated for potential impacts.
Coordination with FDEP regarding the Sovereign Submerged Lands easement modification was required due to power lines being moved and the expansion of the bridge footprint.
Several recreational resources including the Kissimmee River Public Use Area, Kissimmee River Trail, Chandler Slough Connector and the Ft. Basinger Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site required coordination in order to assure public access remained.
