The Vandenberg Artificial Reef Project in Key West is in jeopardy if additional $2.3mm is not obtained shortly.
Within the last year we were hit with unavoidable, unanticipated overruns.
Fuel costs for towing have nearly doubled.
We have incurred financing costs and mandated additional insurance.
Regulatory requirements are more stringent, including new Invasive Species safeguards which required us to dry dock this 523-foot ship for cleaning.
The environmental cleanup has been substantially more than originally projected due to new requirements placed on the project by regulatory agencies.
This will be one of the cleanest artificial reefs ever deployed!
Our local officials are now working with highest levels of state government to secure existing funds from the Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development.
This project will help save our marine environment by reducing pressure on the reef and creating habitat. It will create jobs in the maritime industry and boost tourism. It preserves an important piece of American Maritime history.
