The Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) began the Intracoastal Waterway deepening this week to allow for better passage of commercial and private vessels.
A deeper Intracoastal will result in an increased economic benefit to the commercial and recreational marine industry, which will benefit all South Florida residents and help secure the region’s position as an international marine hub.
In order to remain a leading marine destination, Fort Lauderdale’s waterways must remain open and accessible to boats of all sizes.
The dredging of the Intracoastal from 10 feet to an overall depth of 17 feet should help protect the 110,000 Broward residents who are employed by the marine industry and 136,000 in South Florida.
“Vessels are getting larger, and they can go anywhere in the world, ” said Mark Crosley, executive director of FIND , explaining how the project will benefit South Florida’s marine industry.
The FIND’s $17 million dredging scheme started at the 17th Street Causeway and Intracoastal with work continuing to Sunrise Boulevard.
Benefits of this dredge include allowing vessels with deeper drafts more options when visiting Greater Fort Lauderdale in addition to providing a significant economic impact for local businesses.
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