Federal stimulus money sought for Everglades, jobs

The Associated Press
11:21 AM EST, February 4, 2009
WEST PALM BEACH - Environmentalists and contractors say they are hoping to get funds through the federal government's economic recovery plan to jump-start Everglades restoration and create jobs.

Everglades Foundation CEO Kirk Fordham said Tuesday the money would benefit both the environment and Florida's lagging economy.

The economic stimulus plan is currently being debated in Congress.

Construction industry officials say the money could put hundreds of Floridians to work for up to three years on projects from Orlando to the Keys.

Florida is entrenched in a multibillion partnership with the federal government to restore the Everglades. But the state has spent more than $2 billion, while the federal government has lagged far behind on funding.