Florida

Florida Governor Seeks $50M to Speed Up Lake Okeechobee Dike Construction

Florida Gov. Rick Scott says he will ask the Legislature for $50 million to speed up construction of the dike that's around Lake Okeechobee.

Scott said Monday that the money would help complete the federal project by 2022 instead of 2025. This would be the second straight year the governor has asked for $50 million.

President Donald Trump said last week he would work with Scott to get additional federal funds to repair the 80-year-old dike.

The Army Corps of Engineers is halfway through a $1.7 billion renovation program. The Corps did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

The corps recently began daily safety inspections as the lake's water level now exceeds 17 feet. It says the barrier's integrity has not been compromised.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us