Two of three priority state-funding projects for the Town of Miami Lakes escaped Governor Rick Scott’s veto pen as the legislative budget battle came to a conclusion last week in Tallahassee.
Thanks to the efforts of Senator Rene Garcia and Representatives Manny Diaz Jr. and Jose Oliva, Miami Lakes will receive $1 million for Phase Two of the Town’s Canal Bank Stabilization Project, and $325,000 for a comprehensive study of the rock mining industry’s blasting and review of the claims process for property damages.
Gone from the budget is $1 million for the 87th Avenue ramp to Miami-Dade Expressway’s State Road 924 extension west to the Florida Turnpike which would have helped reduce traffic congestion in the town’s western suburbs.
Mayor Manny Cid said he was disappointed Scott vetoed the project but thanked the governor for keeping the other two critical projects in the budget.
“Thank you to Governor Rick Scott and his Legislative Affairs director Kevin Reilly for ensuring that two vital Miami Lakes projects made the final budget,” Cid said.
Cid said he plans to invite Scott to visit Miami Lakes “so he can see first hand the importance of the N.W. 87th Avenue ramp project.”
The blasting study was a priority for Florida CFO Jeff Atwater, Diaz and Garcia. Rock mining blasting has been an issue for Palm Springs North and Miami Lakes, where Councilmember Frank Mingo sponsored a resolution supporting the study that was unanimously approved by his colleagues.
The State Fire Marshall will now have the funds to conduct a comprehensive study and allow the Legislature and State Fire Marshall the ability to make long term decisions to protect infrastructure while keeping up with the demands of Florida’s growing economy.
“This study is important for the peace of mind of our constituents,” said Diaz. “I want to thank the Governor for his commitment to keep our economy growing while also keeping quality of life for our community.”
“This study will help us evaluate what the best course of action is to keep our economy growing while making sure our community is safe,” said Garcia.