Major Water Main Replacement Near Plantation Key Begins Rolling Construction

On December 19, 2025 the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority published a project update on the Plantation Key Transmission Main Replacement, an infrastructure effort now scheduled to run through March 2026. The project replaces roughly six miles of aging 30 inch transmission main with a new 36 inch cathodically protected steel water main along US 1 between Snake Creek and Julep Road. FKAA reported that crews had installed 26,718 feet of new pipe as of that posting, including 24,618 feet placed by open cut trench along US 1 and 2,100 feet of HDPE installed underwater at the Tavernier Creek crossing.

The authority described a rolling construction method in which crews install about 1,000 feet of pipe, temporarily repave the roadway and then move the active work zone forward. Traffic control will include rolling lane closures around the clock, a 35 mph speed limit through work zones, and restricted left turns at selected intersections as phases progress. Sheriff deputies will assist with traffic control during morning and afternoon peaks for school and work commutes. FKAA advised travelers to plan for extra travel time and noted that crews will generally work 24 hours Monday through Friday, pausing for major holidays.

For Monroe County residents the work means intermittent delays on the main artery that connects local neighborhoods, businesses and visitors to the lower keys. Commuters should expect changing lane patterns and temporary intersection restrictions as the project advances, and commercial deliveries and local service calls may need adjusted schedules. The underwater HDPE crossing at Tavernier Creek and the extended open cut work along US 1 present particular points where travel speeds and lane access may be limited.

The FKAA update includes maps showing current work zones and provides contact information along with email and sign up links for project updates and notifications. With the project continuing into the new year residents and businesses are advised to check those resources regularly and to allow additional travel time when planning trips along US 1.