Friday, August 31, 2012

MARATHON

Ribbon-cutting for autoloader

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District will hold a ribbon-cutting to mark the completion of a new piece of equipment that streamlines the aerial-larviciding process.

The ceremony, which will take place 30 minutes before the agency's final budget hearing, will be at 5 p.m. Sept. 19 at the Marathon hangar, 503 107th St. Mosquito Control aerial staff designed and built the autoloader from standard farm equipment. It reduces manpower needed when loading larvicide into the helicopter in the field.

Typically, four to six inspectors were needed; the new equipment will take their place.

ISLAMORADA

Two road projects coming up

Two Overseas Highway projects could slow traffic in the village over the next few months.

The first project is to begin Sept. 4 and end Dec. 2. It will cover 0.7 miles of north Plantation Key, from the Royal Poinciana Boulevard entrance of Plantation Key Colony to the northern edge of Tavernier Creek. It will cost $660,000 and include resurfacing and the striping of bicycle lanes in both direction, according to the Florida Department of Transportation. The second project, for landscaping, is to run from Sept. 17 to Dec. 5. It will cost $164,000 and cover Mile Marker 85.3 in northern Windley Key to Mile Marker 87.3, just north of the Executive Bay Club condominium complex.

KEY WEST

Warning issued for Smathers

The Monroe County Health Department's water-quality tests this week showed high levels of fecal bacteria at Smathers Beach.

The tests measure counts of fecal coliform and enteric bacteria, which are normally found in the intestinal tract of humans and other warm-blooded animals. The Health Department says high levels may come from runoff or sewage from pets, wild animals or humans. It can cause disease, infections or rashes. Don't swim in the water if an advisory is issued. For more information, visit http://www.doh.state.fl.us, click on A-Z Topics, then choose Beach Water Quality, or call 305-293-1653.