INDIAN KEY BOAT RAMP REMAINS CLOSED FOR REPAIRS.

The boat ramp at Indian Key Fill, approximately MM 78.5 along the area known as the Fills, was damaged early in February while a contractor was putting equipment into the water. The hard pack surface was disturbed at the ramp entrance on the shoreline and extending into the water. Following an evaluation of the damage, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) determined that restoration must be completed before the area can be reopened to the public.

The restoration is the responsibility of the contractor that created the damage. The contractor is working with an environmental consulting group to create the necessary restoration plan. The plan now requires approval and permitting from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and will also require permitting with the Army Corps of Engineers and authorization through the National Marine Sanctuary. The contractor is coordinating closely with FDEP and the Village during this process.

It is estimated that the permitting process and restoration work will take months to complete and it is possible that it could take until the summer of 2023. The ramp and parking area are completely closed to the public until the restoration project is completed.

Parking to enjoy the scenic views of the bay and for recreational activities along remainder of the Fills area is limited and clearly marked. No parking areas are enforced. Visitors are asked to be conscious of the fragile shoreline along the fills, to place all trash in the trash cans provided and are reminded that no tents with sides may be erected.