ELA15-014 Narrative - RESTORE Multi-Year Implementation Plan

PASCO COUNTY RESTORE ACT

MULTI-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN GULF COAST RESTORATION TRUST FUND

FINAL INITIAL PLAN JUNE 10, 2015

ELA15-014 Narrative - RESTORE Multi-Year Implementation Plan - Revised June 3, 2015 -2-

Table of Contents I. Restore Introduction and Executive Summary ........................................................................... 3

II. Background ................................................................................................................................ 4

III. Multi-Year Implementation Plan Purpose ................................................................................... 4

IV. Restore Act Advisory Committee ............................................................................................... 5

V. County and Committee Actions to Date ..................................................................................... 6

VI. Project Map ................................................................................................................................ 8

VII. Project Selection ........................................................................................................................ 9

VIII. Public Comment ....................................................................................................................... 10

Attachment A - Waterfront Park Improvement Project ........................................................................ 11

Attachment B - Orange Lake Restoration Project ............................................................................... 15

Attachment C - SunWest Park Improvement Project .......................................................................... 21

Attachment D - Restore Act Criterion .................................................................................................. 26

Attachment E - Project Matrix ............................................................................................................. 33


Introduction

I. Executive Summary The Pasco County RESTORE Act Advisory Committee (RAC) initially met in March of 2013. The first order of business was to develop, review, and recommend scoring criterion that would be used to assess potential projects that may be eligible for funding through the RESTORE Act (Act). The final criterion developed for Direct Component funding is listed in Attachment D. Over 40 stakeholder projects with a net value of approximately 460 million dollars were presented for consideration by the RAC in a public forum. The RAC heard numerous project presentations; questioned project sponsors about project benefits, liabilities, budgets; and considered all presentations sensibly. Projects were then scored using the criterion and score sheets developed in accordance with the Act. Scores were tallied by staff, projects ranked and the results presented back to the RAC for deliberation. The RAC members then assessed the community impact, funding availability or matching funds, location, readiness, and timeliness of the projects. Based on the recommendations of the RAC three projects were proposed to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) on January 13, 2015, in Dade City during the regular board meeting. The BCC was given a presentation outlining the three projects. Projects included the Orange Lake Restoration Project in New Port Richey, the Waterfront Revitalization Project in Port Richey, and Pasco County's Sunwest Park Improvement Project located in Hudson, Fl. The BCC voted unanimously to approve the RAC recommendation and authorized staff to develop the required Multi-Year Implementation Plan (MYIP). The initial MYIP was published by Pasco County (County) on February 24, 2015. The plan outlined the three projects selected for funding from the initial award made available via the RESTORE Act under the initial TransOcean, Ltd, settlement. Public comment was received by staff and the public comment period closed on April 13, 2015. The BCC directed staff on April 21, 2015, to take the public comments back to the RAC for further consideration as required by the Act. The RAC met on May 7, 2015 to discuss public comment. The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) was invited to come speak to the RAC about their concerns relative to the County’s RESTORE process and project selections. Many of NWF concerns and recommendations were addressed and incorporated into the final version of the MYIP. The MYIP contains a background on the projects that were selected, a list of all the projects that were considered and incorporates many of the changes that were requested based on public comment. Pasco County remains committed to working with all organizations to ensure that the projects selected are within the guidelines presented by the Act, that the concerns of Pasco citizens are heard and that the process is maintained in a transparent manner. Website improvements were made to provide easier access to documentation concerning the RESTORE process.


II. Background On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon rig caught fire. Two days later, the rig sank and marked the beginning of an 87-day oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) that cost 11 lives and resulted in 3.19 million barrels of oil being spilled into the Gulf. The disaster was the largest oil spill in U.S. History. The impact from this spill was not only felt in terms of a natural disaster, but also in economic impact to the five states that line the Gulf. In July of 2012, the President signed into law the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States (RESTORE) Act. This unprecedented Act directed 80 percent of the fines assessed under the Clean Water Act (CWA) to be redistributed among various Gulf Coast political entities. Designed to assist in the recovery from the natural and economic impacts of the spill, it provides funding directly to the affected entities for various projects that qualify under the provisions set forth in the act. Funds from the act were split into five different funding categories. In Florida, under the Direct Component (Pot 1) portion of the Act, funds were to be made available to the 23 Gulf counties including Pasco County (35 percent of the Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund [GCRTF]; 7% to each State). Funds are required to be utilized in accordance with the provisions of the act and therefore must fall within certain designated uses. Pasco County will receive 7.079% of the non-disproportionately affected funding. This allocation amounts to roughly $991,060.00 for every 1 Billion Dollars in fines assessed under the CWA. The Transocean, Ltd., settlement resulted in roughly this amount being available to the County. Additional funding is anticipated upon conclusion of the BP CWA trial in New Orleans, Louisiana. Potential fine amounts range from 5 to 13.7 Billion Dollars. Federal-level (Pot 2) projects under the RESTORE Act will be accomplished via the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (GCERC). Thirty percent of the funding will go to the GCERC, which is comprised of 11 council members. Those members will select eligible projects to be completed within the five states. Selection of the first round of projects is currently being conducted by the GCERC and selection results are expected to be announced in the summer of 2015. The RAC developed criteria specific to this pot of funding based on the Act and the goals stated by the GCERC. All submitted projects were screened against that criteria and projects that were determined to be eligible for Federal funding were scored. Projects were then submitted to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Projects with a score listed in attachment E with a score in the Pot 2 and 3 column were those that were submitted for consideration. State-level funding in Florida (Pot 3) will be controlled and distributed by the Gulf Coast Consortium (GCC). The GCC will receive at least 5% of the RESTORE Act funds. The GCC is comprised of members from all 23 effected Gulf Coast Counties, including Pasco County. Currently, The Honorable Jack Mariano, County Commissioner (District 5), is Pasco County’s representative. The GCC currently meets several times a year, and is in the process of developing a State Expenditure Plan to determine how those funds are going to be distributed. Projects eligible for this funding have been submitted to FDEP for consideration. These projects have a score in the second column of attachment E. Staff continues to monitor and update the status of those project applications. Pots 4 and 5 (2.5% each) will be used for research and monitoring through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) RESTORE Act Science Program and State Centers of Excellence.

III. Multi-Year Implementation Plan (MYIP) The RESTORE Act requires that all entities receiving Direct Component funds from the GCRTF meet certain conditions, including the requirement to "...develop and submit an MYIP for the use of such amounts, which may include milestones, projected completion of each activity, and a mechanism to evaluate the success of each activity in helping to restore and protect the Gulf Coast region impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil


spill..." Another condition of the RESTORE Act is that projects are "...selected based on meaningful input from the public, including broad-based participation from individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations..." To meet these requirements, on February 13, 2013 the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) appointed a nine-member RESTORE Act Advisory Committee to review, score, rank and recommend potential projects eligible for funding. The U.S. Department of the Treasury rule implementing the RESTORE Act and GCRTF further described the required components of the MYIP. The MYIP must describe each program, project, and activity for which it seeks funding. For each program, project, and activity, the MYIP must include a description showing need, purpose, and objectives. It must also identify the eligible activity it will undertake and include the project location, budget, milestones, and projected completion dates. The MYIP must also specify the criteria to be used to evaluate the success of each activity in helping to restore and protect the Gulf Coast region.

IV. Restore Act Advisory Committee The Pasco County RESTORE Act Advisory Committee (RAC) was formed by Resolution No. 13-111 on February 19, 2013, by the BCC (Memorandum No. CAO13-0017). The RAC is composed of nine County resident members appointed by the BCC. Membership is comprised as follows:

a. One member from the County, being the Chairman of the BCC or designee.

b. One member recommended by the District School Board of Pasco County (DSBPC).

c. One member from a higher institution (college or university).

d. One member from the aquaculture or marine industries.

e. One member from the workforce development/job creation industry.

f. One member with experience in economic development efforts.

g. One member from the tourism industry.

h. One at-large citizen member who must possess an interest in one of the areas of allowed uses under RESTORE funds.

i. One member of the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

On June 25, 2013, the BCC signed Resolution No. 13-250, which modified the seat listed under (d) above to a member with experience in marine science, coastal ecology, or fisheries (Memorandum No. CA13M-5059). All other provisions under Resolution No. 13-111 remained the same. The RAC was specifically tasked to:

a. Recommend the establishment of an application and procedure for potential projects, programs, or activities to be funded by RESTORE Act funds.

b. Hold no less than five advertised public meetings to encourage and solicit broad-based citizen

input on the potential projects, programs, and activities from individuals, businesses, and organizations.


c. Review and rank each proposed project, program, and activity, based upon the guidelines provided in the RESTORE Act; Federal rules; community and regional needs and desires; the best available science for natural resource protection or restoration projects or activities; and other relevant factors.

d. Provide monthly status reports to the BCC.

e. Prepare and present a ranked project and activity list to the BCC within 90 days after the

U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued its final rules and regulations applicable to the Act.

f. Track those projects, programs, and activities approved for funding; those referred to or funded from other potential sources; and those denied for funding.

g. Provide input and assistance to the County in developing and submitting an MYIP for the use of

RESTORE Act funds, which shall include milestones, projected completion of each activity, and a mechanism to evaluate the success of each activity in helping to restore and protect the County.

h. Such other duties as assigned or determined by the BCC.

V. County and Committee Actions To Date The RAC first met on March 27, 2013. County staff provided technical environmental support for the RAC to assist answering questions related to natural resources and various other environmental related issues. Initial efforts by the RAC were to develop a set of criteria that could be used to adequately evaluate the projects presented. The RESTORE Act requires that Direct Component funds may only be used to carry out specified eligible activities in the Gulf Coast Region, including: 1. Restoration and protection of the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats,

beaches, and coastal wetlands of the Gulf Coast region. 2. Mitigation of damage to fish, wildlife, and natural resources. 3. Implementation of a federally approved marine, coastal, or comprehensive conservation management

plan, including fisheries monitoring. 4. Workforce development and job creation. 5. Improvements to or on State parks located in coastal areas affected by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. 6. Infrastructure projects benefitting the economy or ecological resources, including port infrastructure. 7. Coastal flood protection and related infrastructure. 8. Planning assistance. 9. Administrative costs of complying with this subsection. 10. Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast region, including recreational fishing. 11. Promotion of the consumption of seafood harvested from the Gulf Coast Region.


Additionally, to receive funding from the Act, a funded project or program must be designed to restore and protect the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches, coastal wetlands, or economy of the Gulf Coast. Also, in the case of a natural resource protection or restoration project, the project must be based on the best available science. "Best available science" is defined in the RESTORE Act as science that maximizes the quality, objectivity, and integrity of information, including statistical information; uses peer-reviewed and publicly available data; and clearly documents and communicates risks and uncertainties in the scientific basis for such projects. To adequately measure the applicability of a project, score sheets and scoring criteria were developed by County staff and approved by the RAC, using the objectives set forth in the RESTORE Act. They were approved for use by the BCC on January 28, 2014. Staff with an environmental background was also made available for technical assistance to the RAC during project review and scoring.


VI. Project Map

SunWest Park

Port Richey

Waterfront

Revitalization

Orange Lake

Restoration


VII. Project Selection All Direct Component projects submitted for consideration of funding via the RESTORE Act were screened and scored using criteria specifically developed for that funding opportunity. See attachment D. Additionally, projects that were screened by the County as potentially being considered for funding at the State (Pot 3) and Federal level (Pot 2) were also scored using criteria that was developed particular to those levels of funding. Projects viewed as eligible to meet standards for funding consideration at the State and Federal level were also scored using criteria developed specifically for those levels. A list of all projects that were presented and scored is available in Attachment E. Over 40 projects were presented to the RAC, which held 15 public meetings. Project presenters included County staff, the school board, and the Cities of Port Richey and New Port Richey. Project presentations were completed on October 2, 2014. Committee members graded the projects and staff collated the results. On November 20, 2014, the results of the scoring for the projects were presented to the RAC. The RAC unanimously recommended to the BCC three projects for eligibility of Pot 1 Funding and submission in the initial MYIP. Attachment E on Page 33 contains a list of all projects and their ranking score. Those projects are:

Project Name Fund Request

SunWest Park Facilities $195,000.00

Orange Lake Restoration $100,000.00

Port Richey Waterfront Revitalization, Phase I $667,000.00

Administrative Costs (3%) $ 29,732.00

Projects were selected by the Committee that best meet the needs of the County. Driving factors for selection were economic stimulus to coastal communities, project cost, high probability of completion and natural resources restoration. Additionally, under the Act, the County is allowed to recoup up to 3% of the award amount for administrative costs expended in the execution of the RESTORE Act. To date, the County has spent approximately $154,000.00 in RESTORE efforts. The County will be applying for nearly $30,000.00 in administrative costs for this round of Pot 1 funding. In July of 2013, a County website was established to allow for public citizens to present projects, programs, and activities. That website is currently active as of the date of publication and the County encourages organizations to submit projects related to the RESTORE Act. The website is updated frequently. The BCC voted on January 13, 2015, to approve the RAC's recommendations and directed staff to prepare and publish the MYIP (Memorandum No. ELA15-006.) Additional meetings for the RAC will be held in the near future to determine the best use of funding anticipated from the BP trial. The public is encouraged to participate in the meetings to ensure that the funds are best used to make Pasco County a premier County. The County website will have the RESTORE meeting dates listed on the calendar. The County website also has a page dedicated to the RESTORE Act, and an application process for submitting ideas and links to meeting minutes. A link to this MYIP will also be posted on that website. The County is also making all relevant materials related to RESTORE readily available on the website. Project descriptions, milestones, and criterion for measuring success are covered in more detail under Attachments A - C.


Comments or concerns over the projects, process, or about the MYIP being submitted can be addressed to Curtis Franklin, Environmental Lands Program Coordinator/Grant Writer, at [email protected]

VIII. Public Comment The County published the initial MYIP on February 24, 2015 by placing a notice of the release on the County website as well as conducting a news release via the Pasco County Office of Public Information. Public comment was held open from February 24, 2015 until April 13, 2015. During that 48 day period the County received approximately 56 public comments. The majority of the comments received were from the National Wildlife Federation and its members. These comments were generally in favor of the Orange Lake Restoration Project, but were not supportive of the other two projects being submitted. Although all the projects being submitted are eligible under the Act, the two that weren’t supported were economic in nature. It is important to note that both the SunWest Project and the Port Richey Waterfront Revitalization Project received substantial local support during the project vetting process and are both highly supported. The comments received during the public comment period were presented to the BCC on April 21, 2015. The BCC directed the RAC to take public comment into consideration during its next public meeting, which was held on May 7, 2015. The RAC met on May 7, 2015 and held an open discussion about the public comments. A representative from the NWF was invited to speak to the committee to express their concerns over the process and project selection. Several suggestions were adopted for action by the committee. The results of the discussion were presented to the BCC on June 9, 2015. This MYIP was revised in direct response to the comments. The BCC elected to submit the three projects already recommended and to adopt the suggested changes to this document. In addition, the BCC submitted a formal letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury explaining how public comment was taken into consideration. Some of the key changes made, were to the website. A page was created for easier reference of RAC meetings held and their related materials. In addition, the scoring criteria and a list of projects were added to the MYIP to better explain the process used and detail all projects reviewed. Reference to natural resources benefits for the SunWest and the Port Richey Waterfront Revitalization Projects were removed. Finally, the required matrix and narrative will be published on the County's RESTORE website.


ATTACHMENT A - PORT RICHEY WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT

Project Summary The City of Port Richey has multiple canals designed to carry boats to the Gulf. Over the years, the canals around Waterfront Park have collected silt and other debris, degrading the surface quality of the Pithlachascotee River and making navigation difficult. The City of Port Richey initiated preliminary engineering and obtained environmental permits over the last several years in an effort to improve the quality of the waterways and navigability but has been unable to secure adequate funding to accomplish dredging of the channels and improvements to the boater access facilities inside the City of Port Richey boundaries. This project will allow for Phase 1 of a three phase improvement plan to commence. Improvements in this phase include construction of a new and improved boat ramp from Waterfront Park, improved parking, design and dredging of the channel that enters Millers Bayou and supports the new boat ramp, street improvements in the local area, and park improvements in the existing boat facility. To date, the City of Port Richey has completed feasibility studies, permitting, and preliminary designs for the dredging and environmental restoration of a series of severely impacted water bodies and 25 finger canals within the city limits. Environmental permitting efforts included coordination with various regulatory and commenting agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to successfully reduce mitigation requirements from a previously permitted 63 acre Seagrass Protection Zone to a 0.78 acre fill and transplanting effort, which is estimated to save the City of Port Richey over 1.5 Million Dollars in construction and monitoring costs. The City of Port Richey has authorization from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) to dredge approximately 57,000 cubic yards from these water bodies to improve public access and water quality. Final engineering efforts include final dredging design, dredged material management engineering, support during formation of a special district, construction administration, and monitoring for permit compliance during and after construction. Additionally, the City of Port Richey is proposing to relocate its boat ramp access to the Pithlachascotee River and the Gulf of Mexico from its current location at Nick's Park to Waterfront Park. The park is located on Millers Bayou less than one-quarter mile north of the current location of Nick's Park. The new ramp location would improve recreational boating access to the Pithlachascotee River and the Gulf of Mexico, and accommodate additional vehicle and boat trailer parking at Waterfront Park. Nick's Park could then be configured as a public parking area for cars only, keeping the riverfront picnic pavilions and dock facilities for public use and riverfront access. The City of Port Richey is proposing to complete the project, including redevelopment of the waterfront district in three phases. Phase 1 of this plan is currently targeted with this round of RESTORE dollars. All three phases are described briefly to provide a synopsis of the complete project. Phase 1: Phase 1 has been designated the commercial part of the City of Port Richey’s dredging initiative. The areas to be dredged include the common canal between Gill Dawg's Tiki Bar and Grill and Port Richey Waterfront Park. The proposed new boat ramp access in the park, and the canal leading to the Pithlachascotee River as well as street improvements and Nick’s Park upgrades are also included in this phase. Phase 1 dredging is annotated as pink on the following map. The estimated cost of Phase 1 is $1,042,000.00.

Phase 2: Phase 2 is included as information only and includes commercial and residential access canals along the perimeter of Millers Bayou. The estimated cost of Phase 2 is $1,618,000.00 (revised to include


streetscaping costs). Phase 2 dredging is annotated in yellow on the following page’s map. Funding for this phase is currently not secured.

Phase 3: Phase 3 includes dredging of the residential access canals allowing access to Millers Bayou and the Pithlachascotee River. The estimated cost of Phase 3 is $2,559,000.00. Phase 3 dredging is annotated in blue. Funding for this phase has not been secured to date.

Location

Project Objectives 1. Improve boat access for recreational and commercial purposes.

2. Improve the water quality in the City of Port Richey’s waterways and water entering the Pithlachascotee

River.

3. Increase disbursement time of stormwater runoff.

4. Increase tidal flow.

Project Need, Purpose, Benefits, and RESTORE Applicability Need: The City of Port Richey has limited boater access for boaters to use to access the Gulf of Mexico. This project greatly increases that access by creating a new, higher capacity boat ramp, increased parking capacity for the boat ramp and increased parking for users of Nick’s Park non-boating features. In addition, the deteriorated boat ramp at Nick’s Park will be closed. Improved traffic flow will greatly benefit the local area as current capacity is already beyond design limits. Over the years, the channel and canals have collected silt and other debris, making navigation difficult. The City of Port Richey initiated preliminary engineering and obtained


environmental permits over the last several years in an effort to improve the quality of the waterways and navigability. The City of Port Richey's existing public single lane boat ramp is located at Nick's Park, an area that is extremely congested with limited parking. Relocating the boat ramp to Waterfront Park would be beneficial, as there is a larger area for vehicle and boat trailer parking. This would help to relieve the waterfront district of the noncommercial vehicular parking and congestion that currently exists. Businesses in the area would benefit, and event parking would be increased at Nick’s Park. Purpose: The primary purpose of the project is to dredge the main channel by Canal 18 and Waterfront Park. In addition, a new and improved capacity boat launch will be constructed at the City park with capability to handle an increased amount of boater traffic. The existing boat ramp will be converted into parking to support the local businesses in the area that are located in the City of Port Richey’s Waterfront Overlay District and to improve access to the waterways that will benefit recreational and commercial users. Benefits: The project provides numerous benefits to and better access to the City of Port Richey’s waterways for recreational and commercial purposes. RESTORE Objectives: RESTORE objectives addressed by this project include economic development, and tourism promotion. The project is located in the City of Port Richey’s Waterfront Overlay District, which serves as the region’s largest commercial waterfront. The City’s free, public boat ramp and largest waterfront park are also located in the project area. Multiple events take place at the City of Port Richey's Waterfront Park.

a. Economic Development: Improve conditions for recreational and commercial purposes, promote tourism.

b. Community Resilience: greater accessibility to water.

Plan of Action and Milestones Associated with the Project

Timeline Proposed Date

Consultant Scope of Work Request Issued to Taylor Engineering, Inc. 12/16/15

Consultant Notice to Proceed Issued to Taylor Engineering, Inc. 2/1/16

30% Complete (Design) - Submit to City for Review 3/8/16

30% Complete (Design) - Revisions from City Review 4/18/16

Preapplication meeting(s) with FDEP and ACOE 4/25/16

Submit Environmental Resource Permits (FDEP and ACOE) 5/9/16

60% Complete (Design) - Submit to City for Review 5/9/16


Required Permits Approved (FDEP and ACOE) 11/14/16


90% Complete (Design)- Submit to City for Review 12/12/16


Submit Final Design 2/2/17

Construction Bid Package - Submit to City for Review 2/23/17

Construction Bid Package - Revisions from City Review 2/6/17

Bid Advertisement 2/13/17

Bid Tabulation and Award 4/3/17

Contractor Notice to Proceed 5/15/17

Start Construction 5/30/17

Substantial Completion 10/30/17

Complete Construction 11/27/17

Construction Record Drawings Completion and Certifications 12/18/17

Signed and Sealed As-Builts by a Professional Engineer 12/18/17

Project Close-out and Contract Termination 1/1/18

Funding Funding from this project will be provided as follows:

RESTORE Funding $ 667,000.00 City of Port Richey 375,000.00 Total $1,042,000.00

The City of Port Richey committed verbally to its portion of the funding and discussion is ongoing for method of completion. Additionally, the City plans to apply for Florida Boating Improvement Program dollars through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to help pay for the construction of a new boat ramp at Waterfront Park that may help to ease the costs for the completion of the project. To date, the City of Port Richey has expended approximately $335,208.00 in feasibility studies, preliminary engineering, and obtaining permits to dredge the canals.

Project Success Criteria Project success will be measured by examining the amount of boat traffic that the new facilities provide and by looking at the total number of boaters utilizing the area. In addition, traffic in the local area will be monitored to verify that improvements are adequate to support larger amounts of boating traffic.

Applicable Scientific Documents Not Applicable for this project.


ATTACHMENT B - ORANGE LAKE RESTORATION PROJECT

Project Summary Orange Lake is a small body of water located in downtown New Port Richey, Florida. Orange Lake will be dredged to restore the lake to the greatest extent possible. During dredging, samples will be taken and spoils from the dredge will be removed and disposed of as necessary. Once the dredge is completed and deposited sediment is removed, aeration/diffusion devices will be installed to circulate dissolved oxygen at all levels of the lake. Littoral shelves will be constructed and planted around the perimeter of the lake to allow for vegetation to uptake excess nitrogen and phosphorous. A stormwater control gate will be installed to allow control of the lake level and to direct stormwater overflow as necessary to the Pithlachascotee River. It is important to note that the City of New Port Richey is exploring options to reroute the stormwater drain lines currently aligned to Orange Lake. The combined results of these efforts should result in restoring water quality. A boardwalk will also be constructed to allow the public better access to Orange Lake and provide for aesthetic views.

Background History of the area has shown that Orange Lake was once known as the Little Blue Sink and that water quality was extremely clear. As New Port Richey grew, stormwater was directed into the lake from the surrounding community. Sediments trapped in the stormwater accumulated, eventually plugging the connection to the aquifer. Contaminants within that stormwater further degraded the water quality contributing to the development of an anaerobic layer in the deeper portions of the sink that prevents life from surviving. After decades of stormwater input, the water quality and water clarity has significantly degraded over time. Gaydos Hydro Services, LLC (GHS), was hired by the City of New Port Richey to perform an analysis on Orange Lake in 2014, to determine what Orange Lake was, and if it could be restored to its former state. A site investigation, bathymetric study, water quality sampling, and some local hydrological research were conducted on the lake. Orange Lake was determined to be a remnant sinkhole that is currently not connected to the Floridian Aquifer. Water samples show that the lake exceeds limits on phosphorus and nitrogen, most likely due to the untreated stormwater that is directed into the small lake. This makes Orange Lake a pollution contributor to the Pithlachascotee River as excess water is directed to the river. The Pithlachascotee River eventually empties into the Gulf.


Location Orange Lake is located in New Port Richey, Florida (82°43'11.49"W, 28°15'6.488"N.)

Orange Lake

New Port Richey,

FL


Project Objectives 1. Improve the water quality of Orange Lake.

2. Remove manmade contaminants that have deposited into the lake.

3. Improve stormwater control of the lake and surrounding community.

4. Improve water quality of water entering the Pithlachascotee River.

5. Improve the level of aquatic life in the lake by providing aeration.

6. Improve lakeside aesthetics for park users. Project Need, Purpose, Benefits, and RESTORE Applicability Need: Orange Lake has had manmade deposition occurring from stormwater runoff for over 100 years. In order to restore the lake to its natural state, the lake will be dredged and the majority of the sedimentation removed. To assist the surrounding neighborhoods in stormwater control and help control future sediment deposition, slide gates will be used to control the level of the lake. Orange Lake studies revealed that the lake has an anaerobic layer approximately nine feet down in the water column. Because of this, the ability to sustain aquatic life has been greatly reduced. In order to support life, oxygen levels will need to be greatly improved. The water quality in Orange Lake and aesthetic view of the water in Orange Lake is degraded. The surrounding natural areas are well kept, clean, and pleasingly landscaped for the residents of and visitors to New Port Richey to enjoy the serene environment. This project is designed to bring Orange Lake, which is the center attraction for this area, to a level of attractiveness which will make it an overall pleasurable experience. Purpose: The primary purpose of the project is to restore the lakes water quality, improve the circulation of dissolved oxygen to support and increase aquatic life, and improve the aesthetic qualities of the lake for the benefit of the surrounding environment, community, and visitors. Improved stormwater control for the community around the lake is also desired. Benefits: Improved water quality, a wider and more robust aquatic ecosystem, improved stormwater control, and lowered pollutant discharge into the nearby river are all benefits that this project provides. Educational signs along the boardwalks regarding hydrology and the historic connection to the Floridian Aquifer, surface water, and stormwater input: nutrient cycles in the lake; and animal identification will provide visitors to the lake with information and history of this feature. RESTORE Objectives: RESTORE objectives addressed by this project include ecosystem restoration, economic development, and tourism promotion. The lake is located in close proximity to where several local community events are held annually. A walkway currently exists around the location to serve the public. Multiple events are held at a lakeside pavilion.

a. Environmental: Improved water quality, benthic and submersed habitats, and recreational activities in the lake and river.


b. Economic Development: Use of lake and development of watersports on river to promote

tourism.

c. Community Resilience: Flood control.


Timeline Proposed Date

Consultant Notice to Proceed 10/1/15

Project Site Acquisition/Easement Acquisitions N/A

Sampling Plan 11/6/15

Timeframe for Sampling One Time Per Week During Dredging

Data Analysis One Week After Collection

30% Complete (Design) 11/6/15



Final Design 1/8/16

Pre-Application Meeting(s) 1/22/16

Required Permits Approved 3/25/16

Operation and Maintenance Plan 3/25/16

Construction Bid Packages 3/25/16

Bid Advertisement, Tabulation, and Award 4/22/16

Contractor Notice to Proceed 4/29/16

Start Construction 5/16/16

Substantial Completion 10/21/16

Complete Construction 11/18/16

Construction Inspection Reports and Construction

Certification 12/2/16

Construction Record Drawings, to Include Resource

Benefit Calculations and Methodology 12/2/16

Signed and Sealed by a Professional Engineer 12/2/16

Final Report 12/2/16

Project Close-out and Contract Termination 12/30/16


Project Success Criteria Upon completion of the project, water samples will be taken and analysis completed to determine the amount of improvement in the water quality. Water samples will also be taken at the discharge points of the Pithlachascotee River to determine if the discharge from stormwater overflow has been improved. Aeration studies will be completed at various levels in the lake to ensure that oxygen levels will support improved aquatic life. Littoral shelves planted will be monitored for growth and health.

Funding Funding from this project will be provided as follows:

RESTORE Funding $100,000.00 City of New Port Richey 247,000.00 Southwest Florida Water Management District 247,000.00 Total $594,000.00

The City of New Port Richey committed verbally to its portion of the funding and discussion is ongoing for method of completion. Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) and the City of New Port Richey have verbally committed to completing this project. As of April 16, 2015, a Best Management Practice has been agreed to that will prevent stormwater runoff from entering the lake. To date, the city has expended approximately $501,910.00 in efforts to prevent contaminants from entering the lake. Project costs are anticipated to be as follows:

Vacuum Dredging $350,000.00 Littoral Shelf Work to Include Exotic Plant Removal and Planting Costs $5,500.00 Aeration/Diffusion System $8,500.00 Boardwalk $24,000.00 Slide Gates $12,000.00 CDS Units and Baffle Boxes $194,000.00

Project Description Orange Lake will be vacuum dredged to restore the lake to the greatest extent possible. During dredging, samples will be taken and spoils from the dredge removed and disposed of as necessary. Once the dredge is completed and deposited sediment and stormwater runoff is removed, aeration devices will be installed to allow for dissolved oxygen at all levels of the lake. Littoral shelves will be constructed and planted around the perimeter of the lake to allow for vegetation to uptake excess nitrogen and phosphorous. A stormwater control gate will be installed to allow control of the lake level and to direct stormwater overflow as necessary to the Pithlachascotee River. It is important to note that the City of New Port Richey is exploring options to reroute the stormwater drain lines currently aligned to Orange Lake. The combined results of these efforts should result in restoring water quality. A boardwalk will also be constructed to allow the public better access to Orange Lake and provide for aesthetic views.

Applicable Scientific Documents Stormwater runoff can become contaminated by automobiles, atmospheric deposition, chemicals used in homes and offices, erosion from construction sites, discharges from industrial plants, and wastes from pets. These contaminants include total suspended solids and volatile suspended solids; nutrients such as nitrogen


and phosphorus; heavy metals, such as zinc, lead, chromium, nickel, copper, cadmium, and iron; and hydrocarbons, which are byproducts of petroleum products and bacteria1. To achieve maximum pollutant removal, stormwater residuals and sediment solids must be periodically removed from the system. Dredging is one method to physically remove such sediments and stormwater residuals. Orange Lake is considered a wet pond since it is permanently filled with surface water and stormwater. Wet ponds will eventually accumulate enough sediment to significantly reduce the storage capacity of the permanent pool, affecting the appearance and the pollution removal efficiency1, which is the case at Orange Lake. According to the Center for Watershed Protection, stormwater ponds require sediment clean-out every 15 to 25 years (Schuler and Yousef 1994)2. Orange Lake has not had any sediment removal activities to date. Dredging: The geology in the area of New Port Richey is karstic in nature and is composed of dissolvable rock, primarily limestone, which is prominent of sink holes. Orange Lake is considered a remnant sink hole that has outcrops of limestone along its banks (Orange Lake Feasibility Study, GHS, 2014). The technique of vacuum or suction dredging was selected due to this karstic nature. Vacuum dredging uses hydraulic centrifugal pumps to provide the excavating force. The purpose of dredging Orange Lake is to remove sediments and silts that have accumulated over decades of stormwater input so that the material is soft. Mechanical dredging techniques, such as grab and clamshell dredges, backhoe and bucket dredges, use high impact machinery that can cut through any kind of sand, clay and rock (International Association of Drilling Contractors, Number 4, 2011). Since Orange Lake is a geologically sensitive area, using such high impact machinery is not recommended, and therefore, vacuum dredging is being recommended as a more sensitive method. The State of Florida (State) implemented best management practices (BMP) in the early 1980s, but the State does not have any regulation that requires dredging and removal of sediment periodically; currently, it has issued a guidance manual. The manual recommends testing all BMP sediments using the Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure (TCLP), metals extraction, priority pollutant metals, nutrients, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and organochloride pesticides before disposal3. Landfills require the appropriate TCLP laboratory paperwork before accepting sediments and debris from dredge projects. All sediments will be tested and disposed of following all Federal and State regulations. SWFWMD has recently funded several local projects that include dredging of sediment for water quality and restoration purposes. These projects include the dredging and sediment removal of Lake Panasoffkee4 in Sumter County, Lake Maggiore5 in Pinellas County, and the headsprings of the Homosassa Springs6 and the Chassahowitzka River in Pasco County. Draft results of the Chassahowitzka Headspring Restoration Feasibility Study have been submitted and report that the accumulation of fine sands, silts, and organic matter pose a risk of habitat degradation from accretion of organic sediments over productive sand bottoms. The project proposes the use of vacuum dredging to remove approximately 5,100 cubic yards of sediments to be dewatered and disposed. This equates to 1,650 tons of dry materials. With the dredging and removal of these sediments, the project is anticipated to significantly reduce the nutrient and bacteria levels as well as improve navigation. Overall, the project benefit is reported to improve water quality in one of Florida's Outstanding Waters of the State7.

1. (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1999)

2. (Schueler, Summer 1994)

3. (Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2015)

4. https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/JulAug2005/2.html

5. https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/MayJun2005/5.html

6. https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/MayJun2005/5.html

7. (BCI and SWFWMD, 2009)

https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/JulAug2005/2.html

https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/MayJun2005/5.html



ATTACHMENT C - SUNWEST PARK RESTORATION PROJECT

Project Summary The SunWest Park Restoration Project, located in Hudson, Florida, consists of construction of the second phase of improvements to an abandoned quarry pit being repurposed into a premier County park and tourist attraction. The manmade, 60-acre lake has been redeveloped into a beach facility to allow residents and visitors alike a place with beaches. Capabilities will include the ability to hold sporting events such as endurance racing, wakeboarding and sand volleyball. Future amenities include a boardwalk around the lake will bring residents closer to nature as they tour nearby wetlands, an amphitheater, television tower to broadcast sporting events, a playground area, splash pad, and increased numbers of bathroom facilities. The County is teaming with a nearby developer to put a wakeboard facility in at the lake. This Project is designed not only for the use of residents and visitors to Pasco County, but also to boost the economy of the area by virtue of its unique features from it azure blue waters and the current and planned amenities.

Background

Located near Fillman’s Bayou in Hudson, Florida, in the northwest corner of the county, the SunWest Mine is was an operational limestone quarry which is now a man-made lake with crystal blue azure waters. Originally an abandoned portion of the nearby mine, the County negotiated with SWFWMD and the owners to obtain and reutilize the abandoned quarry pit into a functional park. In 2014, funding for the development of the park was secured and development of Phase 1 began. Phase 1 is scheduled to be completed by July 4, 2015. Pasco County has invested approximately 3.7 Million Dollars into the park's development. Phase 1 consisted of grading of the beach areas, bringing in high quality sand, redevelopment of the access road, installation of a bathroom facility at the southern end, installing 250 parking spaces, installation of a cofferdam at the shallow water border for safety and to keep sand loss at a minimum, and basic park facilities. In addition the County has contracted with a wakeboard park operator to construct and operate a wakeboard facility as well as maintain the park and oversee day to day operations.


Location SunWest Park is located in Hudson, Florida (28°24'22.6944''N, 82°40'26.7348''W.)

SunWest Park


Project Objectives 1. Continue the development of the park facilities for useby residents and visitors.

2. Provide a modern park with multiple amenities for all ages.

3. Improve the economic climate of the surrounding community.

Project Need, Purpose, Benefits, and Restore Applicability Need: SunWest Park is unfunded for the construction of Phase 2. Funding for the additional parking and restroom facility is necessary so as to complete the Project so that it can truly be a catalyst for economic development in the area. . Purpose: The primary purpose of the project is to provide the additional amenities at the park to make it truly one-of-a-kind. Future sporting events in the park will be fully supported by the necessary parking and restroom facialities to draw larger events. This in turn will boost economic development in the surrounding area as well as providing for greater amounts of amenities to be used by local residents. Benefits: Parking will be suitable to support sporting events held at the park, and restroom facilities will be adequate to support normal use. A boardwalk allowing greater access to the nearby nature areas will result in better ecotourism and awareness. Support facilities will be sufficient for the ultimate intended use of the park and support growth. Increased tourism from the park will support the local economy. An abandoned quarry pit will be turned into a functioning park available for use by the public. RESTORE Objectives: RESTORE objectives addressed by this project are economic development.

a. Economic Development: Events held at the park will result in increased usage of the area and a boost in the economy. Local citizens will benefit from a modern park with a large variety of amenities.



Event Timeframe Start End

Phase 2 Construction (North Restroom) 119 days 2/15/16 7/28/16

Securing Funding 43 days 2/15/16 04/13/16

FDEP-CC-Pasco Preconstruction Meeting 1 day 4/14/16 4/14/16

Notice to Proceed 5 days 4/15/16 4/21/16

Construction Start 1 day 4/22/16 4/22/16

Construction Process 60 days 4/22/16 7/14/16

Inspect and Punch Out 5 days 7/15/16 7/21/16

Final Cleanup and Owner Inspection 5 days 7/22/16 7/28/16

Event Timeframe Start End

Phase 2 Construction (North Parking, North Sidewalks, TV/Spectator View Tower) 80 days 2/15/16 6/3/16

Notice to Proceed 5 days 2/15/16 2/19/16

Construction Start 1 day 2/22/16 2/22/16

Construction Process 64 days 2/22/16 5/20/16

Inspect and Punch Out 5 days 5/23/16 5/27/16

Final Cleanup and Owner Inspection 5 days 5/30/16 6/3/16

Project Success Criteria A post inspection by Pasco County will be conducted to ensure that the facilities added are adequate and constructed pursuant to the contract requirements. Attendance at the park will be tracked to determine the level of success that the County has with bringing in events and providing services to residents and guests alike. The Economic impact will be measured by analyzing the number of visitors to the park, the number of sporting events held at the park, and number of hotel room nights attributed to the events at the park over a 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year period.

Funding

Funding from this project will be provided as follows:

RESTORE funding $195,000.00 To date, Pasco County has invested over 4 Million Dollars into the Park design and the Phase 1 construction. The requested funding from RESTORE will not be sufficient to complete all the amenities and upgrades desired by the County. However, with the additional funding the Park will be able to support a wide array of


recreational opportunities park services such as sand volley ball tournaments, increased water recreation; sporting events and regular day-to-day use by large numbers of people. .

Applicable Scientific Documents Not Applicable for this Project

ELA15-014 Narrative - RESTORE Multi-Year Implementation Plan - Revised May 21, 2015 -26-

ATTACHMENT D - RESTORE ACT CRITERION

Projects are scored related to the anticipated benefit it will provide in each category with a maximum of 5 points possible per category. Guidelines for scoring each category are provided below. Categories are taken from the RESTORE Act guidance on State and Local Allocation and Expenditures.

1. Provides Restoration and Protection of Natural Resources (NR) Note: This measures how Natural Resources are protected, set aside or improved on an ecological and environmental scale. Scales are set so that the greater improvement seen in regards to the Natural Resources, the higher the score. 0 - Project results in no increase or no net increase in the protection of natural resources. 1 - Identified NR to be protected but the project only results in a minor increase in NR protection or restoration. No natural resources and/or lands set aside, protective measures or restorative effects estimated at less than 5 years. 2 - NR identified and will be protected or restored; but lifespan of protective measures or restorative effects estimated at 5 to 10 years. 3 - NR identified and will be protected and project designates specific natural resources and/or land to be planned for protection through development on BMP, policies or resource management plan. Lifespan of protective or restorative effects estimated to exceed 10 years. 4 - NR identified and will be protected and/or restored via acquisition, conservation easement or active restoration. Management plan developed in coordination with appropriate natural resource entities. Public education elements have been included in the project. Lifespan of protective and/or restorative effects estimated to be greater than 20 years. 5 - NR protected and/or restored via acquisition or active restoration that contributes to either wildlife corridors or ecological planning unit. Actively protects State and Federally listed plant and/or animal species. Protection is in perpetuity through conservation easement or other similar instrument. 2. Mitigates Damage to Fish, Wildlife or Natural Resources Note: Measures of effectiveness include the effect on fish, wildlife, NR and/or water quality that the project may have. The more these are enhanced or improved, the higher the score should be. 0 - No change in current status to mitigate damages to fish, wildlife, or NR. 1 - Project indirectly halts any existing impacts to fish, wildlife or natural resources. No action is planned to restore or repair any previous damage that has occurred. Any mitigation will occur naturally and over a long duration. No change in current wildlife or fish status. Short term (<1 year) water quality improvements are achieved. 2 - Project intentionally halts existing impacts. Has some limited direct impact as well as long to mid-term indirect impact. Positive impact noted on recreational fishing and wildlife use. Natural resources benefit to a limited degree. Some short term water quality achieved.


3 - Minor immediate impact seen in correcting damage. Fish, wildlife and natural resources damage is immediately mitigated although on a minor scale. Invasive species are eradicated or significantly reduced. Water quality is improved in the mid to long term (1 to 5 years). 4 - Immediate impact noted. Indirect effects permanently felt. Public health is positively increased to some degree. Growth or recovery from previous damage noted immediately. Economic growth due to actions noted. Long term water quality improvement is achieved (>5 years). 5 - Action results in immediate, long term correction of damage. Public health is positively increased. Invasive species are removed. Long term potential exists to correct endangered or threatened status. Other benefits such as economic growth are realized as a result. 3. Implements a Federally Approved Marine or Coastal Conservation Plan Some examples would include: The Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program, National Marine Sanctuaries Program, Marine Protected Areas Program, Coral Reef Conservation Program, Deep Sea Coral Research and Technology Program, the Ocean Acidification Program, and Marine Debris Program, as well as efforts to develop a coastal and marine spatial planning framework. The more benefit and size of benefit is seen by these or similar programs, the better the score. Aquaculture development is also captured in this category as is The Endangered Species Act. 0 - Existing marine or coastal conservation plans are not enhanced. No new plans developed pertaining to use and/or protection of natural resources, land, and/or wildlife. No additional habitat conservation areas set aside. Coastal fishing activities and resources are present, but not improved. Benefits to aquaculture are not realized. No migratory bird species protection is addressed. Pollution abatement is not achieved or addressed. Threatened or endangered species do not benefit. 1 - Does not significantly contribute to program improvements of existing Federally approved marine or coastal conservation plans. Provides for limited amounts of marine or coastal ecosystem monitoring, but is temporary in nature. Some temporary or seasonal recreational fishing benefit created as a result. Habitat conservation areas created are temporary or limited to a less than one square mile or one species. Support for aquaculture programs is created on a limited basis. Threatened or endangered species protection is not developed but benefits to a specific species are realized on a limited basis. Migratory bird lands are not significantly increased but some small scale or temporary benefits a realized. Pollution abatement is temporary in nature and limited in scope. 2 - Provides some contribution to existing Federally approved marine or coastal conservation plans. Multi-year funding is provided for assessment and monitoring activities. Short term benefits are created that benefit recreational fishing year round. Waterfront access is improved for the public. No growth on status however fisheries status is monitored for greater than 1 year. Recreational fishing and other watersports develops as a result. Habitat conservation areas increase by 1 to 5 square miles or for specific and multiple finfish species (up to 5 species). Seasonal aquaculture support is developed that lasts for multiple seasons. Migratory bird lands are increased and the benefits realized are temporary or limited. Threatened species benefit on a limited scale. Pollution abatement is implemented on a small scale permanently. 3 - Contributes to increases in the size and scope of the current marine or coastal conservation plans. Fisheries monitoring is completed on a regular basis for specific and multiple species for multiple years. Seasonal recreational use rises significantly as well as other watersport use and waterfront access is improved for the public. Supports increased habitat conservation areas and by 5-10 square miles or 5-10 species are directly targeted and conserved. Existing conservation plans are revised to address new resource management issues. Conservation plans created that target specific finfish conservation. Program management created that supports aquaculture industrial development for multi-seasonal duration. Migratory

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/mpas/national-marine-sanctuaries/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/mpas/national-marine-sanctuaries/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/mpas/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/coral-conservation/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/coral-conservation/deep-sea-corals/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/coral-conservation/deep-sea-corals/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/ocean-acidification/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/mpas/pacific-islands-conservation/

http://www.marine-conservation.org/what-we-do/program-areas/ocean-governance/


birds program benefit is achieved on a permanent basis for a specific species. Threatened and endangered species protection occurs permanently on a small scale. Pollution abatement is achieved that provides community-sized benefit. 4 - Federal coastal and marine conservation plans receive multi-year funding and the benefit of multi-disciplinary work. Plans are comprehensive in nature and based on providing long term support and monitoring. Provides long term management and monitoring programs for fisheries as well as documented resources status. Fisheries monitoring is conducted on a routine basis with positive results noted. Recreational fishing and water activities are significantly increased on an annual basis. Habitat conservation areas are increased by 10-20 square miles. Increased focus on aquaculture development which results in new industry development. Multiple migratory bird species protection benefits realized. Pollution abatement and control results in positive impacts to multiple communities in the County. Threatened and endangered species protection is achieved on a larger scale. Benefits and increases in numbers of species likely as a result of protection. 5 - Contributes significantly to increase fisheries development and management. New coastal or marine management plans are developed. Monitoring programs for commercial and recreational fishing are developed for important finfish. A broad increase in fisheries development occurs as a result of the project. Monitoring occurs on a frequent basis on multiple species. Conservation areas are increased in size by 20 or more square miles. Aquaculture activities are developed using economically significant species that provide a significant economic impact with long term potential. Threatened and endangered species numbers increase. Pollution abatement affects are positive and seen on a regional scale. Multiple migratory bird species benefit permanently as a result of the project. 4. Workforce Development and Job Creation Note: The more jobs and industries that are created, the higher the score should be. Time period of creation should also be considered. Full time is 40 or more hours per week. Part time is considered to be less than 40 hours. Temporary is defined as less than year-round work, seasonal work, or multi-seasonal that has breaks based on demand. 0 - Project does not provide any opportunity for additional jobs within the private or public sector. Work can be performed through existing roles or jobs are lost through the termination of a job provider. 1 - Project provides a surplus of available work for existing workers within the County and maintains the current number of public and private sector jobs. All jobs are considered to be part-time or full-time temporary, lasting one year or less upon start of project. Work created is temporary in duration. 2 - Project demands that part-time jobs be created to perform necessary work within the project schedule. Part-time employment opportunities expected to last 1-2 years upon start of project. Project implementation creates 1 to 4 full-time jobs. Long term employment sustained for 5 or more years. 3 - Project creates 5 or more full-time positions which are necessary to perform work related to the project. Upon project completion, 5 to 10 permanent jobs (part-time or full-time) are created to staff any long-term (>5 years) result of the project. 4 - Project provides for the creation of 10 to 25 long-term full-time jobs related to the construction/implementation of the project as well as creating a surge in temporary employment. 5 - Project provides a significant increase of jobs provided by an entire industry. More than 30 full-time jobs are created. An industrial need is created and filled by the community.


5. Improvements to an Impacted Coastal State Park Note: All State parks are considered impacted in Pasco County. Projects that result in larger improvements are scored higher. 0 - Project does not provide any benefits or improvements to a State park. 1 - A portion of the project indirectly provides temporary or minor benefits to a State park. 2 - Less than 50% of the project directly provides improvements to a State park; and the project is not specifically designed for the purpose of improving portions of the State park. 3 - A significant portion of the project (more than 50%) directly provides improvements to a State park; but the project is not specifically designed for the purpose of improving the State park. 4 - A significant portion of the project (more than 75%) directly provides improvements to a State park; and the project is specifically designed for the purpose of improving the State park. 5 - Project is specifically designed to improve a State park (100%) and provides significant improvements to the State park. An education component is included in the project. The public experience within the State park is significantly improved. The project adds improvements that relate to the principal feature of the State park. 6A. Infrastructure Projects Benefitting Economy Note: Projects in this category provide an outcome that allows for improvement in our local economy to be felt based on conducting improvements to infrastructure such as roads, sewer and water. Short term effects include items such as temporary employment, temporary work generated, etc. Long term effects consider that it is created and maintained for a significant amount of time, such as the life of the project. 0 - Project has a negative impact to the economy or has no net positive benefit to the local economy. No economic growth realized as a result of the project. 1 - Project provides an indirect, revenue generating mechanism for either the public or private sector. Growth provided in the short term with no sustainable effects. Positive benefit is realized by parts of a neighborhood. 2 - Project provides a direct revenue generator that bolsters the local economy, but not significantly. Some increase in permanent economic growth seen, but is small in nature. No specific local industry or industries become more robust through job creation, increased revenue, or increased patronage; however project results in an increase in local jobs. Positive benefit is realized by a more than one neighborhood. 3 - Project provides a direct revenue generator that bolsters the local economy more significantly. One specific local industry becomes more robust through job creation, increased revenue, or increased patronage and there is a projected increase in other local jobs. Positive benefit is realized by a community. 4 - Project provides a direct revenue generator that bolsters the local economy significantly. One or more specific local industries become more robust through job creation, increased revenue, or increased patronage and there is a projected increase in other local jobs. Some new long-term residents are projected. Positive benefit is realized by the region. 5 - Project provides a sustainable revenue generator that significantly bolsters the local economy with two or more local industries becoming more robust through job creation, increased revenue, or increased patronage. Project results in an increase in local, long-term residents. Positive benefit is realized State-wide.


6B. Infrastructure Projects Benefitting Ecological Resources These infrastructure projects impact, in a positive light, ecological resources. An example would be storm drains that improve flows or allow wildlife to migrate from one place to another, prevent pollutants from entering the environment, or remove sediment that has built up. The larger the ecological resource benefit, the higher the project will score. 0 - Project negatively impacts or has no net benefit to any ecological resource. 1 - Project has an indirect, but measurable benefit to an ecological resource. The benefit does not fully correct a deficiency or restore a function. 2 - Project has a direct measurable benefit to an ecological resource, but the benefit does not fully correct a deficiency or restore a function (assume meets no more than 25% of such goals.) 3 - Project has a direct measurable benefit to an ecological resource with benefit, enhancement, or restoration goals, and the benefit does not fully correct a deficiency or restore a function (assume meets at least 50% of such goals.) 4 - Project has a direct measurable benefit to an ecological resource with benefit, enhancement, or restoration goals, and the benefit corrects a deficiency or restores a function (to at least 75% of such goals.) 5 - Project has a direct measurable benefit to an ecological resource with benefit, enhancement, or restoration goals, and the benefit corrects a deficiency or restores a function (to at least 90% of such goals.) 7. Coastal Flood Protection and Related Infrastructure Examples here would be seawalls, levees, or some other infrastructure that provides resilience and resistance to flooding for a community. A good example would be maintaining creeks and rivers clear of debris, allowing floodwaters to flow away rapidly. The more resilience provided to a community, the higher the score. 0 - Project does not provide flood protection to a portion of a community and has no net increase in flood protection to a known flood prone area. 1 - Project identifies areas potentially affected by floods but provides no measure for increasing the flood protection for those areas; or project may indirectly provide minor benefit to flood prone area. 2 - Project identifies areas potentially affected by floods and provides means for measuring the increase in flood protection for those areas (Level of Service [LOS]); or project may indirectly provide a fairly significant LOS benefit to the flood prone area. 3 - Project identifies areas potentially affected by floods; and there is more than a 50% increase in the LOS to a large flood prone area (more than 100 residents) or a 75% increase to an area with less than 100 residents. 4 - Project identifies areas potentially affected by floods; and there is more than 75% increase in the LOS protection to a large flood prone area (more than 100 residents) or a 90% increase to an area with less than 100 residents.


5 - The project’s primary goal is to improve flooding protection service for the local community. The project includes sustainable solutions that include long-term, large-scale drainage improvements that do improve known flood prone areas to acceptable LOS, with 90% LOS improvement to large-scale (more than 100 residents). 8. Planning Assistance Until further defined by the GCERC or the U.S. Department of the Treasury rules, this category will be left with a score of 0. 9. Promotes Tourism and Recreational Fishing The State of Florida considers tourism and recreational fishing two of its biggest attractions. This category measures the impact a project will have on growth of those industries. Positive, large impacts will have a higher ranking. Examples include artificial reef creation, creation or bolstering of diving and fishing industries, and positive press and outreach for the local area. 0 - Does nothing to promote tourism. No impact on current status. 1 - Project spending anticipated to have little effect on tourism. Project may affect local tourism on an event-level basis. Some income generated for local business only and only for a short time period. 2 - Some effect on tourism expected on a seasonal basis. Some economic income for the local area or city created as well as for small businesses. 3 - Multi-seasonal impact. Generates some significant economic income for the local city. 4 - Multi-seasonal to year round impact. New generation of economic income created. Income effects multiple cities in the County. 5 - Year round draw of new people to the area. Large amounts of economic income created. Entire County benefits. 10. Promotes Seafood Consumption Harvested from Gulf Coast Region This category is designed to capture the growth of commercial fishing in the region. Projects that provide for a larger industry growth, assist in creating sustainable commercial stocks and protect areas that are needed to sustain the industry will score higher. 0 - No additional seafood consumption created or project has the potential to negatively impact the seafood industry. 1 - Small amount of seafood consumption created. Anticipated that the local seafood market increases sales of seafood consumption by less than 5% and catch rates do not increase noticeably. 2 - Increased amount of seafood consumption created (more than 5%.) Little positive effect on the seafood industry occurs, in general, but catch rates increase some. 3 - Project has a noticeably positive effect on the seafood industry. More than 10% increase in seafood consumption anticipated. This includes habitat restoration and anticipated increase in catch rates of identified species by 5% or more.


4 - Industry growth experienced. Some positive effect on the local economy seen because of seafood consumption increase. Anticipated increase more than 15%. Catch rates of identified species more than 10%. 5 - Industry experiences new growth and invigoration. Measurable positive impact on the economy as evident by more than 20% increase in seafood consumption. Significant increase in the catch rate and production of new seafood products (by more than 15% in identified species). 11. Timing This score captures the readiness of the project to be implemented. Staff will assign a score here based on reports from the submitting entity on where the project is in regards to execution. 0 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized more than 20 years away. 1 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized more than 10 years away. 2 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized 6-10 years away. 3 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized 4-6 years away. 4 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized 2-4 years away. 5 - Initial effects of the project benefits projected to be realized 0-2 years away.

References BCI and SWFWMD (2009). BCI Project No. 03-13653.7. Chassahowitzka Headsprings Restoration Feasibility Study. Florida Department of Environmental Protection. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.dep.state.fl.us. Schueler, T. and. Yousef, Y.L. (Summer 1994). Pollutant Dynamics of Pond Muck. Watershed Protection Techniques, Volume 1, No. 2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (1999, September). Stormwater O & M Fact Sheet, EPA Document No. EPA 832-F-99-015. Lake Panasoffkee: https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/JulAug2005/2.html Lake Maggiore: https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/MayJun2005/5.html Homosassa/Chassahowitzka Springs: https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/MayJun2005/5.html

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/

https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/documents/publications/watermatters/JulAug2005/2.html



Attachment E - PROJECTS GRADED


RAC

Pot 1

RAC Avg.

Score Pot

2 & 3

Project RESTORE Pot

Organization Submitting

Description Cost

26.00 32.50 WRI/CERN Project

1, 2, 3 Pasco School Board

This Coastal Environmental Research Network consists of several elements that cohesively combine to produce a network that addresses need for Water Quality Research, educational needs for students in grades K-20, improved research facilities that are both new and existing and communication and data sharing capabilities between different educational partners up and down Florida’s Gulf Coast. A Coastal State Park will be improved upon by creating a conference and educational center that will be used by existing schools and public/ private members alike.

$30,050,000.00

20.63 CERN/ WRI Components

Energy and Marine Center Renovation - State of the art marine and estuarine research facility focused on energy conservation through renewable energy use. Includes sustainable site design through low impact development practices laboratories that are responsive to current and future needs. Wet and dry laboratories for ongoing research and restoration projects including but not limited to cultivation tanks, aquaculture, and renewable energy research.

$2,000,000.00

15.38 Environmental Academy - Academy housed on the Anclote High School campus (a DSBPC High School) that will encompass workforce training programs focusing on environmental resources and sciences.

$2,000,000.00

20.38 P.I.E.R2 Research Institute - Includes acquisition of land and facility to support research from

partner facilities and universities. Includes research vessels and conference center with teleconferencing capabilities.

$9,000,000.00

19.50 Welcome Center - Located on Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park land. Will be used as public outreach and will include conference center used by community, private and public outreach.

$1,000,000.00

15.13 Sustainability of Research Facility - Recurring costs of personnel and resources to sustain educational and community program: two instructors, transportation, and supplies. Sustainability will be ensured through partnerships and lease agreements for facility use among stakeholders.

$500,000.00

13.50 Sustainable Costs of Environmental Career Academy - Recurring costs of personnel and resources to sustain environmental academy and certification program: two instructors, transportation, and supplies.

$350,000.00



21.38 Watershed Research Institute - Includes land acquisition and construction of laboratory and surrounding area. Projected location is in the Cypress Creek Watershed area. A full time staff position of two is also included with staffing cost projected for 5 years operation

$11,000,000.00

18.00 Data Collection Center - Cost to install and maintain a state of the art center for the Watershed Research Institute.

$4,200,000.00

24.25 31.40 COMPS C-14 Buoy

Redeployment

1, 2, 3 USF and Pasco County Office of Emergency Management

Repair, configure, and re-deploy the C-4 buoy, which is part of the Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction System (COMPS), complete with meteorological and oceanographic instrumentation. This cost estimate is for a 5 year deployment. Actual time may vary due to unforeseen circumstances.

$825,000.00

28.63 29.60 SunWest Park Project

1 & 2/3 Pasco Facilities

The SunWest Park Project consists of developing an existing abandoned mine into a recreational County park with multiple amenities. Construction of a channel and boat ramp for the park will necessitate multiple mitigation projects required to offset the environmental impact.

$14,109,006.00

32.45 SunWest Park Components

Sunwest Park Development - The park is designed to function as a public beach park. This project development includes 2 phases. Each phase of the park will consist of a beach area, soccer areas, restrooms, picnic shelters, picnic areas, and utilities (water, sewer, and electric.) In addition to these amenities there will be landscaping along the entrance, parking to accommodate all the venues, sidewalks, and boardwalks connecting all amenities.

$6,409,006.00

18.75 Anclote Hole - This project consists of filling a 15 acre hole that was man made. The filling of this hole and bringing it back up to the elevation around the hole will allow for the surrounding sea grass to migrate through this area. This will create a plush sea grass area that can be the home to many aquatic features.

$5,200,000.00

17.88 Strauber Memorial - This project consists of installing two box culverts 8' x 12' under Strauber Memorial Highway to allow more tidal flow under the road. This project will allow for the east side of Strauber Memorial Highway to be replenished back to a saltwater marsh as it was prior to the road being installed. It will allow for better tidal flushing to this area and for saltwater life to flourish on the east side of the road. It will also allow kayaks to row through to the other side for more pleasurable experience. This will return it this area to 10 acres tidal marsh.

$1,200,000.00

16.13 Berm Scrape Down - This project will consist of the scrape down of an area along the bank of an old mine pit that Pasco County will be making into a beach park. This project will create a .79 acre area where wetland vegetation will be able to flourish.

$250,000.00

Marsh Creation - This project will fill in an existing mine pit and allow for the saltwater to filtrate into this area and create a salt water marsh area. This mine pit is the most western lake at the SunWest Mines location.

$550,000.00



19.25 Werner-Boyce Scrape Down - This project will remove an existing berms that is restricting the flow of water. The removal will allow the natural flow of water and allow for better flushing in this area and allow for plant life to flourish.

$500,000.00

20.38 28.50 P.I.E.R2 1, 2 & 3 Pasco County

School Board Pasco Institute for Environmental Research and Restoration (P.I.E.R

2). See project descriptions above. Cost is minus the WRI

portion.

$15,000,000.00

25.63 27.00 Regional Reclaimed

Water System Interconnection and Ecosystem

Restoration Project

1 & 2/3; it is already on the State list.

Pasco County Utilities

This project will significantly reduce the nutrient pollutant load into the Tampa Bay Estuary; will recover and enhance impacted fresh water ecosystems in Pasco County; will provide for a more sustainable water supply for the Tampa Bay region; and would interconnect several of the region's largest reclaimed water systems, thereby allowing for a comprehensive suite of management options for the reclaimed water and to maximize the beneficial use of the resource. Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is contributing 50%.

$50,000,000.00

27.25 Regional Reclaimed

Project Sub-components

Crews Lake Natural Systems Restoration Project - The 700-acre Crews Lake has seen a historic drop in water levels over the past decade resulting from groundwater over-pumping. Crews Lake has experienced chronically low water levels making the use of the boat ramp, canoe launch, and fishing pier at Crews Lake Wilderness Park useless. Water levels are so depleted that it no longer fits the definition of a lake by either the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) or SWFWMD. The recovery of lake levels at Crews Lake has been deemed of utmost importance by SWFWMD as the water body remains on the priority list for establishment of minimum flows and levels. Recovery of this regionally important lake and park will require mitigation to achieve the desired restoration. There are a myriad of likely benefits to Crews Lake with fruition of the project including: rehydration of a dry lake, improved ecological productivity of the area, improved wildlife habitat, and incremental restoration of local groundwater tables. SWFWMD is contributing 50%.

$41,000,000.00

27.50 The Central Pasco Natural Systems Restoration and Aquifer Recharge Project - This project is for the design, permitting, and construction of facilities that will help to restore natural systems that have been impacted by groundwater withdrawals in central Pasco County. These facilities may include; created wetlands, infiltration basins and/or spray irrigation systems. A goal of this project is to rehydrate the primary regional wellfields, thereby providing for a more sustainable, low-cost supply of water for the region while providing reclaimed water for hydrologically altered wetlands and other aquatic systems, as well as enriching critical habitat and improving recreational opportunities. SWFWMD is contributing 50%.

$9,000,000.00



27.75 23.30 Inshore Artificial Reef Development

1 & 2/3 Pasco County Parks

Develop two inshore artificial reefs. $510,000.00

16.21 23.00 Acquisition – Cross Bar &

Al Bar Ranches

1 & 2/3 Pasco County ELAMP

Cross Bar and Al Bar Ranch consist of approximately 12,500 acres located in north central Pasco County. The property has been identified as a core element in the Pasco County's Regional Conservation Strategy. Two of the seven wildlife corridors within the County connect the ranch to Starkey Wilderness Preserve and Connerton Preserve. It contains a wellfield that supplies drinking water to 2.5 million people in the Tampa Bay Region. State and Federally listed species reside on the thousands of acres of wildlife habitat available.

20.63 22.60 Acquisition/Restoration - Coast

al Ecological Planning Unit

1 & 2/3 Pasco County ELAMP

The Coastal Ecological Planning Unit contains parcels identified for acquisition through the ELAMP. The project totals approximately 1,600 acres. Staff will attempt to negotiate acquisition of identified areas through fee simple or less than fee agreements. Restoration may be required depending on site conditions. The purpose is to protect natural communities including uplands and wetlands, water resources, habitat for listed species and other unique natural resources.

$24,032,000.00

24.75 20.20 Re-permit and Continue

Development of the Hudson

Artificial Reef

1 & 2/3 Pasco County Parks

Regeneration of Hudson Reef No. 4. Pasco County was able to deploy six of the 12 deployment areas of the reef. Re-permitting would allow us to continue to expand the Hudson Reef No. 4 site.

$105,500.00

16.63 19.40 Thousand Oaks/Trinity Oaks BMP

Implementation (aka Duck Slough)

1, 2 City of Port Richey

Implement several, basin specific projects intended to decrease flooding, improve water quality within the basin and ultimately regulate and/or reduce runoff volume into the Gulf of Mexico. The Duck Slough Basin has significant flooding issues which directly relate to the health, safety, and welfare of the Thousand Oaks and Trinity Oaks Communities as well as other communities within the Little Road periphery. In addition its waters empty directly into the Anclote River, which serves several communities within Pinellas County and eventually empty into the Gulf of Mexico.

$12,000,000.00



16.00 19.30 Seven Springs GCC - Reclaimed Water Storage Pond and Pump

Station

1, 2 & 3 Pasco County Utilities

To provide storage and pumping capacity for the delivery of an alternative source of irrigation water for Seven Springs Golf and Country Club and to reduce the amount of potable quality water being used for irrigation from groundwater or other sources.

$600,000.00

17.63 19.00 Pasco County Sewer System Expansion to

Eliminate Septic

1 & 2/3 Pasco County Utilities

This project will install a public wastewater system including sewer collection, pump station, and force mains which will eliminate the usage of septic systems. There are several residences along the west coast of Pasco County, from the Hernando County line south to the Pinellas County line, that are currently on septic systems. Converting these systems over to the County sewer system will eliminate the usage of septic systems and the potential contamination of coastal waters.

$30,000,000.00

16.50 18.00 PACE Analysis - Stor

mwater

1 & 2/3 Pasco County Stormwater

This project consists of assessing the feasibility of diverting excess flows from the Pithlachascotee and Anclote Rivers onto the Starkey Wellfield, Serenova, Anclote River Ranch, and Crockett Lake Ranch properties in order to better manage the water resources. These properties are located within the boundaries of both watersheds, south of SR 54 and east of New Port Richey.

$17,500,000.00

16.50 16.70 Property Acquisition - St

ormwater


Pasco County Stormwater Management Division (SMD) has identified several properties, throughout the jurisdiction, which will greatly alleviate/reduce flooding. By including these properties to our current inventory, SMD can create new ponds, storm drainage networks, and add flood control structures while improving water quality via regulating reduce runoff volume's and sediments into the Gulf of Mexico.

$10,000,000.00

17.25 15.80 Hammock Creek - Stormw

ater


The Hammock Creek Basin has significant flooding issues which directly relate to the health, safety, and welfare of its residents. Its waters empty into others basins, which eventually empty into the Gulf of Mexico. Its serves as the primary source of potable water for communities within the basin. Flooding results in loss of drinking water sources from wells, excessive flooding from septic systems in the area, and extremely slow drainage to the Gulf of Mexico. This project consists of several subcomponents to alleviate the effects when flooding occurs.

$29,000,000.00



17.00 15.40 Forest Hills - Stormwat

er


This endeavor consists of a implementing at least ten projects, previously identified to decrease flooding, improve water quality within the basin and ultimately regulate and/or reduce runoff volume into the Gulf of Mexico. These projects consist of re-sleeving pipes, elevation of road ways, creation of ponds, and other various maintenance issues. In addition, runoff waters from this basin empty into the Anclote River which serves several communities within Pinellas County, and eventually empties into the Gulf of Mexico. This endeavor consists of a implementing at least ten projects, previously identified to decrease flooding, improve water quality within the basin, and ultimately regulate and/or reduce runoff volume into the Gulf of Mexico.

$2,100,000.00

17.88 15.30 Hudson Channel - Storm

water

1, 2, 3 Pasco County Stormwater

This project consists of widening and deepening the existing Hudson channel. This involves dredging, mitigation, and permitting of the project. Some fill from this project will be used to refill the Anclote Hole located in waters near the Anclote Power Plant. This would promote restoration of the sea grass bed in that area by re-establishing necessary water depth requirements.

$14,000,000.00

19.38 15.10 Major Stream Restoration - St

ormwater


County-wide major maintenance of all major rivers and streams. This includes, but is not limited to: clearing trees and debris within 50' of either side of water body (center line), dredging, erosion control projects, and rebuilding bridge abutments and banks. By improving our rivers and streams our water quality shall improve by reducing runoff volume's and sediments into other basins and eventually the Gulf of Mexico. Our communities will benefit from increased storm and floodwater capacity.

50,000,000.00

21.38 14.50 Development of Blueway Trail

Program

1, 2, 3 Pasco County Parks

To develop an officially-designated blueways trail system along the Gulf Coast of Pasco County for the paddling community, citizens and visitors. It will include exploration, mapping and designation of the blueway trail system to include three overnight stay locations. In addition it will provide for navigational, educational and interpretive signage, and displays and brochures will be developed along with a promotions and marketing plan.

$31,000.00



15.75 14.30 Cypress Creek - Stormw

ater


Implement several, specific basin wide, projects, which are target to decrease flooding, improve water quality within the basin and ultimately regulate and/or reduce runoff volume into the Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico. The Cypress Creek Basin has significant flooding issues which directly relate to the health, safety, and welfare of its residents. It's one of our major rivers with north-south flows. In addition, its waters empty directly into the Hillsborough River, which eventually empties into the Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Cypress Creek well field and the Hillsborough River provide a large percentage of the drinking water used by the Tampa Bay Region. By reducing and controlling the flood waters in the region the quality and quantity of the drinking water used by our residents can be improved dramatically.

$38,000,000.00

18.50 14.10 Port Richey Watershed - Sto

rmwater


This project consists of obtaining additional retention capacity within the Magnolia Valley area; transferring ownership of the existing pump station at Magnolia Valley to Pasco County; upgrading and/or replacement of the pumps; and improving the conveyance capacity by constructing a bypass system, just south of the Sherwin Industrial Park. This bypass system will convey some of the runoff volume away from the Suncoast Gateway Mobile Home Park towards the industrial park in Siesta Heights and eventually to the Gulf of Mexico, through culverts beneath US 19. Also, improvements to existing ditches and infrastructure would be required, to handle the additional volume.

$2,000,000.00

16.25 13.00 Sea Pines Sewer System

1 & 2/3 Pasco County Utilities

This project is to install a non-conventional sewer system such as a vacuum sewer system to serve current Sea Pines customers as well as future residents that are currently on septic. Deep gravity sewer is not feasible in this part of the County due to the shallow layers of lime rock. This project will eliminate the potential for sanitary sewer spills.

$2,030,000.00



14.50 12.90 Geiger Park - Stormwat

er


Create a passive park for citizens as means to showcase Pasco County's largest wetland restoration project. This will involve a large wildlife observation deck(s), rest areas, gazebos, parking, informational signage, and other incidental facilities. This park will promote awareness to the citizens of Pasco County with regards to mitigation, water quality, and natural resources. In addition, it could become an economic and educational point for Pasco County. It is the perfect example of how by improving our water quality we improved our drinking water and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

$5,000,000.00

19.38 11.40 Bailey's Bluff/Key Vista

Nature Park Restoration

Project

1, 2 & 3 Pasco County Parks

This is a two part project. Part One: Stabilization of coastal tidal inlet shoreline along the public park (Key Vista Nature Park) with rip-rap and seawall to prevent continued erosion and provide sustainable public access points. Part Two: Removal of the silted-in tidal inlet channel to improve water circulation in the Bayou.

$200,000.00

14.13 11.00 Derelict Boat Removal

1, 2 Pasco County Parks

Removal of personal property that does not have an identifiable owner and that has been disposed of on public property in a wrecked, inoperative, or partially dismantled condition, or has no apparent intrinsic value to the rightful owner.

$40,000.00

17.75 11.00 Trail Connecting

Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando

1 & 2/3;

(connects other coastal counties)

Pasco County Parks

Conduct route feasibility studies, acquire the right of way, design and construct a multi-use trail along the Pasco County Gulf Coast, connecting regionally with Hernando County to the north, and with Pinellas County to the south, and ultimately connecting to the proposed Florida Coast to Coast Trail. The trail would run as close as possible to the coast and connect to existing parks and public lands, and private venues providing coastal access. Trail signs would be placed at periodic intervals to educate the public on various ecosystems and historical sites. The trail would also include benches, water stations, and other amenities associated with trail development. Pieces of this trail system already exist and some of the feasibility studies have been completed.

$100,000.00



12.00 9.00 Public Works and Emergency

Operations Center

Building - Stormwater


Currently Pasco County's Public Works Department (PW) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) are housed in separate, limited space facilities scattered throughout the jurisdiction. In addition, PW's underlying Road & Bridge Division (RBD) and Stormwater Management Division (SMD) field operations and administration are not housed within the same facilities. Centralizing PW's administration and field operations will provide for improved coordination of personnel, equipment, and materials, providing maximum efficiency with quicker response times.

$15,000,000.00

Project Total Submitted to Date: $362,232,506.00



Pot 1 Projects RESTORE Pot

Organization Submitting

Description Cost

32.45 N/A SunWest Park 1, 2, 3 Pasco County Facilities

SunWest Park Development: The park is designed to function as a public beach park. The development of SunWest Park includes two phases. Each phase of the park will consist of a beach area and soccer areas, restrooms, picnic shelters and picnic areas, and utilities (water, sewer, and electric). In addition to these amenities there will be landscaping along the entrance, parking to accommodate all the venues, sidewalks and boardwalks connecting all amenities.

$6,409,006.00

31.95 N/A Waterfront Park Revitalization

Plan

1 City of Port Richey

$12,195,000.00

N/A Waterfront Park Revitalization Components

Redevelopment of the City of Port Richey's Waterfront Park - Redeveloping Waterfront Park based upon the improvements included in the City of Port Richey's “Waterfront Park Master Plan”

$2,400,000.00

N/A Redevelopment of the City of Port Richey's Waterfront District - Improvements include:

streetscaping, ornamental lighting, sidewalk and pedestrian access improvements, relocation of the existing public boat ramp facility at Nick's Park to the southwest corner of Waterfront Park and the development of a municipal parking lot at Nick's Park.

$4,000,000.00

N/A Phase 1 - Dredge portions of the Pithlachascotee River main channel and around Millers Bayou. $1,618,000.00

N/A Phase 2 - Dredge channel around Millers Bayou. $1,618,000.00

N/A Phase 3 - Dredge 25 man-made channels $2,559,000.00

23.16 N/A Orange Lake 1 New Port Richey

The purpose of this RESTORE Act proposal is to restore Orange Lake to the way it was described in 1888 and to begin to plan for improvements to the City of New Port Richey's storm water runoff which currently flows into the Gulf of Mexico. A restoration plan will not only lead to solving the stormwater discharge problem, but provide profound economic benefits, given the town's public park and significant linkage to the Gulf of Mexico.

$594,000.00



22.52 N/A Hudson Seawall,

Walkway and Jetty

1 Pasco County Parks

This project will design and install steel railing along the western edge of the existing walkway which is generally contiguous along the western portion of the park along the Gulf Coast. Easy and accommodating access points to the water will be provided.

$200,000.00

21.52 N/A Anclote Gulf Park Seawall


The project is to design, permit, and construct a combination of seawall and rip-rap to prevent continued erosion along the northern edge of outgoing canal for the Duke Energy Power Plant, and to rebuild the wooden stairways/boardwalk which will allow access. This project will protect the existing wooden stairways/boardwalk, improve public access, stabilize the shoreline and prevent continued movement of sand and silt into the canal and onto the grass flats.

$20,000.00

21.27 N/A Seawall Railings Robert K. Reese Memorial Park


This project will design and install steel railing along the western edge of the existing walkway which is generally contiguous along the western portion of the park along the Gulf Coast. Easy and accommodating access points to the water will be provided.

$45,700.00

17.05 N/A Decommission-ing of the Aqua Utilities Plant

1 Pasco County Utilities

This project would decommission the Jasmine Lakes and Palm Terrace Wastewater Treatment Plants and convert the existing sites into a park for the citizens to use. Existing plants would be acquired and decommissioned with services aligned to the County.

$2,000,000.00

N/A Decommission Jasmine Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant - Convert to a park. $1,000,000.00

N/A Decommission Palm Terrace Wastewater Treatment Plant - Convert to a park $1,000,000.00

14.89 N/A Replace Shelters and Pavilions at

Robert K. Reese and Robert J.

Strickland Memorial Parks


This project will replace facilities that were constructed in 1987/88. The facilities have been deteriorating due to some design issues, and continued flooding and weathering including rust and corrosion. Many “Band-Aids” have been applied.

$645,000.00

11.63 N/A Post Disaster Temporary

Housing

1 Pasco County Emergency Management

Develop a comprehensive temporary housing strategy that outlines Pasco County’s options and processes for reacting promptly to housing needs

$75,000.00



11.55 N/A GIS Mapping of Archeological and Historical

Sites

1 Pasco County Emergency Management

Perform mapping and documentation studies for historical sites located in Pasco County. This study would bring in USF researchers to assist the County in identifying, preserving, and documenting our historical and archeological sites.

$301,400.00

N/A

Project 1 Total Submitted to Date: $22,485,106.00