News Release

Everglades National Park seeks public comment on adverse effects to utility buildings at Shark Valley Tower

Public comment period is June 5 to July 5

Utility buildings at Shark Valley

NPS Photo

News Release Date: June 5, 2024

Contact: Media Contact: Allyson Gantt, [phone]

Contact: Project Contact: Daniel Noon, [phone]

HOMESTEAD, Fla. – Everglades National Park is seeking public comment on resolving adverse effects from the proposed demolition of two small utility buildings, which are historic resources near the Shark Valley Observation Tower. The public comment period is open through July 5 on the NPS Planning, Environment & Public Comment site (https://parkplanning.nps.gov/watersystems).  

Under the proposed action, the Shark Valley Tower Pump House and the adjacent Shark Valley Generator Annex would be demolished to make way for potable water and wastewater improvements. The buildings are a contributing part of the National Park Service Mission 66 development in that area. 

This project is part of the parkwide Rehabilitation of Parkwide Water and Wastewater Systems, which would address the physical and operational deficiencies of the park’s potable water distribution systems and wastewater collection systems. The Environmental Assessment for the rehabilitation project was previously released for public review and comment in November 2023.  

In accordance with National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 regulations (36 CFR 800.6(a)(4)), the public may comment on the adverse effects during the public review period through July 5. The preferred method of providing comments is through the project website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/watersystems using the “Open for Comment” tab.   

Comments may also be submitted in writing to:     

Everglades National Park  
Attn: Superintendent, Shark Valley Utility Buildings Demolition 
40001 State Road 9336  
Homestead, FL 33034   

Mailed comments should be postmarked no later than July 5.