Sen. Tom Wright presents nearly $5.93 million for Brevard bridge, stormwater and Indian River Lagoon sewer projects

Senator Tom Wright visited the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 26 and presented a ceremonial check for $5,927,261 in state funding directed to three county projects.

Senator Wright told commissioners the package is part of nearly $500 million he said he helped secure for the district this year; for Brevard the senator highlighted three line items:

- West Central Avenue bridge replacement: funded at just over $1.2 million to replace an aging bridge that staff said is a vital connection for residents and businesses.
- Atlantic storm drainage improvements: funded at just over $1.7 million to reduce neighborhood flood risk during heavy rains.
- Indian River Lagoon countywide sewer-connection assistance: funded at just over $2.9 million to expand sewer connections aimed at reducing nutrient pollution in the lagoon.

"By expanding the sewer connections, we will significantly reduce nutrient... pollution, helping restore the health of the lagoon for future generations," Senator Wright said in presenting the funds. County officials and public-works staff were present to accept the check.

Why it matters: the Indian River Lagoon has been the focus of restoration and nutrient-reduction efforts; expanded sewer connections and stormwater improvements can reduce diffuse nutrient loads that contribute to algal blooms.

Ending: Commissioners and staff accepted the funds and thanked the senator; the items will move into project planning and implementation with the relevant county departments.