On Friday, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., toured the Keys and showcased efforts as that area recovers Hurricane Irma which hit the area at the end of summer in 2017.
Rubio was in the Keys where he toured the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to focus on coral reef restoration. He also took part in an event with Turtle Hospital to release a rehabilitated sea turtle on Sombrero Beach.
Despite the continued progress, Rubio said the area needed more federal help.
“The Keys community has made progress since Hurricane Irma, and I remain committed to ensuring that the Keys receives the federal support necessary to rebuild,” Rubio said. “I am continuing my fight for Florida in Congress to ensure the safety and recovery of communities grappling with hurricane-related hardship. Ultimately, the stunning ecology of the Keys is the foundation for Monroe County’s success now and in the future. I will keep championing accelerated progress towards improving coastal water quality and restoring our fragile coral reefs as an economic imperative for residents and small businesses throughout the Florida Keys.”
Rubio had been active on the area’s behalf, something his office showcased.
“Last Congress, Rubio secured funds for Hurricane Irma recovery efforts in the Florida Keys. In April of last year, Rubio toured communities impacted by canal debris and hosted a roundtable in Marathon. Last September, Rubio joined now- Lt. Governor Jeanette Nuñez to discuss continued recovery efforts and future hurricane preparedness with Monroe County officials,” Rubio’s office noted. “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Rubio secured key funding in the Fiscal Year 2019 appropriations bills to restore coral reefs in South Florida.”
Kevin Derby can be reached at Kevin.Derby@floridadaily.com.
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