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Grant Application to State Department of Environmental Protection for FY 2023-24 Water Quality Improvement Grant Program for Peck Sink Preserve Improvements
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
On June 15, 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Framework for Freedom budget, making this the largest environmental budget in the state’s history. More than $390 million is available this fiscal year to implement important projects that protect Florida’s water resources.
To implement this unprecedented investment, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is seeking project proposals for FY 2023-24 that will bolster existing efforts to protect and restore Florida’s water resources, as well as for new programs enacted this legislative session including the Water Quality Improvement Grant Program and Indian River Lagoon Protection Program.
Hernando County Department of Public Works is seeking to apply for this grant for continued improvements to Peck Sink. From the January 2020 Alternative Improvement Technical Memorandum, prepared by Cardno Engineering (now Stantic) show three phases of improvements.
• Phase 1 - Improvements to the outfall control structure, plans complete and permitted.
• Phase 2 - Improve flow diversion.
• Phase 3 - Improve open water detention.
The grant will be asking for design and construction of all phases.
Peck Sink provides storm-water treatment to remove debris and enhance the water quality at the entrance to the sink. The project lowers the transport of sediment and debris to the Peck Sink complex and provides biological infiltration of tributary flows from small rainfall events. The project also includes flow diversion to a deep pool open water pond in line with a wetland march infiltration pond. The project will enhance the function of the existing Peck Sink Preserve project.
Benefits of this project will be to improve the existing storm-water management facilities and their control structures at Peck Sink preserve. Peck Sink Preserve provides treatment to enhance water quality of the influent into the sink and the Floridan aquifer.
It is anticipated that this project will cost approximately $2,350,000. This project approaches the problem from three (3) prongs, minimizing the scope to address only the key areas of concern. In doing so, the project efficiently addresses the issues precisely of storm-water treatment and quality enhancement. This phase will significantly enhance the functioning of the existing Peck Sink Preserve project.
Staff is requesting that the Board review and approve staff’s request to submit an on-line application for this grant funded project.
The deadline for proposal submittal is August 31, 2023.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No financial impact currently. If grant is awarded a budget resolution will be processed to recognize revenue and appropriate expenditure.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to on act this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize staff to submit the grant application electronically as required.