Item O5BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Meeting Date: 9/21/11 - MAR
Bulk Item: Yes X No
AGENDA ITEM WORDING:
Division: County Administrator
Staff Contact: Roman Gastesi, #4441
Approval of a resolution recognizing Friends of Old Seven, Inc. as a leading organization in a joint
venture which is expected to include Monroe County and various public and private organizations to
save, rehabilitate and maintain the 2.2 mile segment of the Old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, FL.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
The Old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, FL, owned by FDOT, is in disrepair and, due to this disrepair,
FDOT has already taken steps to limit use of the structure and is in jeopardy of being closed completely
to all traffic, including pedestrian, by FDOT. The bridge is the only access to Pigeon Key which is
owned by Monroe County. Closure would leave the only remaining access to Pigeon Key a ferry
service which is also being threatened due to possible discontinuation of FDOT funding which
supports the ferry service. Friends of Old Seven, Inc. has stepped forward to take the lead in
coordinating a collaborative effort to save, rehabilitate and maintain the 2.2. mile segment of the bridge
and has advised the County that FDOT has expressed to them their willingness to provide funding for a
one-time restoration of the bridge and then hand over to other entities the ownership and maintenance
to the restored facility; however, FDOT requires proof of significant local participation to provide this
funding in addition to community participation and commitment to assume responsibility for
maintenance, etc. This resolution recognizes Friends of Old Seven, Inc. as a leading organization in
this effort and acknowledges the County will work toward a formal relationship with Friends of Old
Seven, Inc. regarding potential strategies to save, rehabilitate and maintain the 2.2 mile segment of the
Old Seven Mile Bridge.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION: N/A
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Approval.
TOTAL COST: N/A INDIRECT COST: N/A BUDGETED: N/A
DIFFERENTIAL OF LOCAL PREFERENCE: N/A
COST TO COUNTY: N/A SOURCE OF FUNDS: N/A
REVENUE PRODUCING: Yes No X AMOUNT PER MONTH Year
APPROVED BY: County Atty OMB/Purchasing Risk Management
DOCUMENTATION: Included x Not Required _
DISPOSITION: AGENDA ITEM #
Revised 2/05
RESOLUTION NO. - 2011
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA,
RECOGNIZING FRIENDS OF OLD SEVEN, INC. AS A
LEADING PARTNER IN A JOINT VENTURE WHICH IS
EXPECTED TO INCLUDE MONROE COUNTY AND
VARIOUS PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS TO
SAVE, REHABILITATE AND MAINTAIN THE 2.2 MILE
SEGMENT OF THE OLD SEVEN MILE BRIDGE,
MARATHON, FLORIDA.
WHEREAS, the Old Seven Mile Bridge, one of the most significant structures in the
100 year Florida Keys Overseas Railway and Trail, 2.2 miles long, and traversing a section of
water between Knights Key and Pigeon Key, is recognized world-wide as an extremely valuable
and protected component of Florida history along with Pigeon Key, with both being named in the
National Registry of Historical Places and in the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection's Office of Greenways and Trails' Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT);
and
WHEREAS, the bridge has played a critical role in the economic life of Southeastern
Florida and of the Florida Keys in particular, and continues, to this day, to be a major magnet
with over 100,000 people currently using it annually as a recreational and exercise facility as
well as an access point to historical Pigeon Key; and
WHEREAS, the bridge is in poor repair and needs to be rebuilt or significantly
renovated; and
WHEREAS, because of the disrepair, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT),
who is the owner of the bridge, has taken certain steps to limit use of the structure and it is
becoming increasingly obvious that the Old Seven Mile Bridge might soon be closed by FDOT
to all traffic, including pedestrians; and
WHEREAS, such closure will represent a significant reduction to access to Pigeon Key,
an island owned by Monroe County, which would leave the only remaining mode of accessing
Pigeon Key a ferry service which is also being threatened due to the expiration of financial
support for the service by Florida DOT; and
WHEREAS, in the recent past, FDOT formulated certain engineering designs and cost
estimates to restore the bridge; however, these plans predicated continuing normal vehicular
traffic despite the community's consensus that the Old Seven Mile Bridge be restored restricting
it to pedestrian, bicycle and very light occasional tram traffic, a design alternative which would
significantly reduce restoration and maintenance costs; and
Friends of Old 7 Mite Bridge Page 1 of 2 Pages
BOCC 9/21/2011 (SAH/kmp)
WHEREAS, FDOT has expressed willingness to provide funding for a one-time
restoration of the bridge and then hand over to other entities the ownership and maintenance to
the restored facility; however, FDOT requires proof of significant local participation to provide
this funding, in addition to community participation and commitment to assume responsibility
for said maintenance; and
WHEREAS, the restoration of the Old Seven Mile Bridge under fresh, innovative
architectural/ engineering design alternatives could provide a once -in -a -lifetime opportunity to
create a unique world -class attraction when integrated with the adjoining Pigeon Key, Sunset
Park and Knights Key, thus expanding the effort to create a family -friendly eco-tourism
destination for the Florida Keys; and
WHEREAS, a number of rail -to -trails, rail -to -parks and road -to -parks, both national and
international, have proven highly successful in converting abandoned transportation facilities
into highly desirable urban and tourism -enhancing facilities including, among others, the
Highline in lower Manhattan and the Walkway over the Hudson in New York State. These
attractions have succeeded not only in saving valuable historical structures, but in attracting
private and public investment to nearby derelict communities, now reinvigorated; and
WHEREAS, certain governmental stakeholders including Monroe County, the City of
Marathon, Monroe County, the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection have an implied interest in working together to save the
Old Seven Mile Bridge; and
WHEREAS, there is no recognized non-profit organization currently recognized by the
governmental stakeholders as a viable entity capable of leading a joint -venture of public and
private entities capable of designing and eventually implementing alternative strategies leading
to saving, restoring, enhancing and maintaining the Old Seven Mile Bridge; and
WHEREAS, there are significant advantages to be gained by recognizing and including
a viable non-profit organization as an official stakeholder in the joint effort to save the Old Seven
Mile Bridge, including private fundraising, marketing, citizen recruitment, a design competition,
and eventually, as a non -governmental partner capable of assisting with maintenance and upkeep
of a new structure replacing the Old Seven Mile Bridge; and
WHEREAS, the Friends of Old Seven, Inc. have applied for their official 501 (c) 3 status
with the Internal Revenue Service, stating that the organization's activities will include as:
a) Activity #1: Participation in planning and design meetings with various other project
stakeholders including, but not limited to, the Florida Department of Transportation, the City of
Marathon, the County of Monroe, various service clubs and other non-profit organizations, and
the general public; and
b) Activity #2: Fund raising through various tactics to contribute toward the
reconstruction and/or maintenance of a new Seven Mile Bridge upon approval by the Internal
Revenue Service who has communicated with the leaders of Friends of Old Seven, Inc. that the
organization's non-profit application has been received and is currently undergoing routine
review and approval;
Friends of Old 7 Mile Bridge Page 2of 2 Pages
BOCC 9/21/2011 (SAH/kmp)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD
OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS that:
1). Friends of Old Seven, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 corporation, is hereby recognized by
Monroe County as a leading organization in a joint venture which is expected to include Monroe
County and various public and private organizations to save, rehabilitate and maintain the 2.2
mile segment of the Old Seven Mile Bridge between Knights Key and Pigeon Key; and
2). Hereby acknowledges that Monroe County will work toward a formal relationship
with Friends of Old Seven, Inc. regarding potential strategies leading to the objectives set forth in
this resolution.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County,
Florida at a regular meeting of said Board on the 215L day of September, A.D., 2011.
Mayor Heather Carruthers
Mayor Pro Tem David Rice
Commissioner George Neugent
Commissioner Sylvia Murphy
Commissioner Kim Wigington
(SEAL)
ATTEST: Danny L. Kolhage, CLERK
By:
Deputy Clerk
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By:
Mayor Heather Carruthers
A w 'e OVEDAST a
Friends of Old 7 Mile Bridge Page 3of 2 Pages
BOCC 9/21/2011 (SAH/kmp)
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Florida Non Profit Corporation
FRIENDS OF OLD SEVEN, INC.
Filing Information
Document Number N1 1000006805
FEI/EIN Number
NONE
Date Filed
07/18/2011
State
FL
Status
ACTIVE
Effective Date
07/17/2011
Principal Address
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON FL 33050
Mailing Address
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON FL 33050
Registered Agent Name & Address
SPINRAD, BERNARD
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON FL 33050 US
Officer/Director Detail
Name & Address
Title P
SPINRAD, BERNARD
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON FL 33050
Title VP
PUTO, MIKE
700 89TH STREET, OCEAN
MARATHON FL 33050
Title TREA
STEINMETZ, RIET
116 GULF WINDS LANE
MARATHON FL 33050
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Electronic Articles of Incorporation
For
FRIENDS OF OLD SEVEN, INC.
N11000006805
FILED
July
OStae
bmcknight
The undersigned incorporator, for the purpose of forming a Florida not -for -
profit corporation, hereby adopts the following Articles of Incorporation:
Article I
The name of the corporation is:
FRIENDS OF OLD SEVEN, INC.
Article II
The principal place of business address:
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL. 33050
The mailing address of the corporation is:
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL. 33050
Article III
The specific purpose for which this corporation is organized is:
TO SERVE AS A CREDIBLE AND LEGAL ENTITY FOR ASSISTING
LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IN RAISING FUNDS AND
PUBLIC AWARENESS LEADING TO THE CONSTRUCTION AND
MAINTENANCE OF A REPLACEMENT STRUCTURE FOR THE OLD SEVEN
MILE BRIDGE.
Article IV
The manner in which directors are elected or appointed is:
AS PROVIDED FOR IN THE BYLAWS.
Article V
The name and Florida street address of the registered agent is:
BERNARD SPINRAD
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL. 33050
I certify that I am familiar with and accept the responsibilities of
registered agent.
Registered Agent Signature: BERNARD SPINRAD
N11000006805
FILED
Article VI July 18 2011
Sec. Of State
The name and address of the incorporator is: bmcknight
BERNARD SPINRAD
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL 33050
Electronic Signature of Incorporator: BERNARD SPINRAD
I am the incorporator submitting these Articles of Incorporation and affirm that the facts stated herein are
true. I am aware that false information submitted in a document to the Department of State constitutes a
third degree felony as provided for in s.817.155, F.S. I understand the requirement to file an annual report
between January 1 st and May 1 st in the calendar year following formation of this corporation and every
year thereafter to maintain "active" status.
Article VII
The initial officer(s) and/or director(s) of the corporation is/are:
Title: P
BERNARD SPINRAD
58418 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL. 33050
Title: VP
MIKE PUTO
700 89TH STREET, OCEAN
MARATHON, FL. 33050
Title: TREA
RIET STEINMETZ
116 GULF WINDS LANE
MARATHON, FL. 33050
Title: SEC
JOHN MORRILL
5409 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON, FL. 33050
Article VIII
The effective date for this corporation shall be:
07/17/2011
Peters -Katherine
From: Bernard Spinrad [bspinrad@idasnet.com]
Sent: Thursday, June 09, 2011 2:46 PM
To: 'Jason Koler'; 'John Morrill; 'Rod & Debra LeMasters; 'Ben Daniels'; 'Carolyn Anthony; 'Kathy
Wiljanen; 'Marjie Mearns'; 'PATTY IVEY'; 'Bettye Chaplin; 'Jim Rhyne'; 'George Steinmetz;
'Riet Steinmetz'; 'Mike -Vice President; 'Marlene Morato; 'Pigeon key'; 'Frank GUYAMIER;
'Bess and Bill'; 'Bartus'
Subject: Save Old 7 - Call to action
To a I I
First of all, congratulations on an absolutely brilliant e-mail written by Rod LeMasters, which highlighted significant
issues concerning the structural integrity and future of the bridge. We definitely need to follow up on his
recommendations to get to the bottom of the current situation and minimum required remedial actions.
TIME TO TAKE THE BULL BY THE HORNS
In addition, I strongly believe this is the time when we need to take serious, dynamic leadership steps on a number of
additional steps, considering that:
1. FDOT appears willing to seek the $16M needed to do basic foundation and railing repair work on the bridge,
including the creation of fishing platforms, as built on other Keys bridges.
2. Any other features intended for the bridge (landscaping, signage, benches/park furniture, small passenger
vehicles, ferry, etc.) would be extra.
3. Provided that there is a viable group willing to support these efforts (similar to the Friends of the Highline, in
New York), the City of Marathon appears willing to cover, at least substantially, regular maintenance of the
bridge and its attached costs.
4. There are clear opportunities to bring into the mix significant private funding opportunities to supplement public
funding sources.
5. The community is beginning to coalesce behind our efforts
6. We can get considerably conceptual support from organizations who have successfully completed similar
endeavors.
MY RECENT TRIP TO NEW YORK
A number of non-profit groups have been successful, throughout the country, in rescuing old bridges, rail lines and
similar derelict facilities and, through the use of a combination of public and private funds, convert them to wonderful
park and recreational facilities which have truly enhanced the quality of life for their communities while providing a true
economic benefit.
I spent some time in New York in early May, and had an opportunity to personally visit two facilities which bear strong
similarities to what we want to do, namely, the Highline in the Meat Packing District of Manhattan, and the Walk over
the Hudson, in Poughkeepsie. Feedback I obtained from Foundation managers and architectural designers for these two
facilities indicate that, to be successful and be taken seriously by other actual and potential stakeholders, any
community -based effort of this type must have sound financial and engineering/architectural design plans:
a. The financial aspects of the plan must be secured with both public and private contributions. The public -
sector contributions becomes a platform on which the organization can effectively recruit private
contributions. Private contributions, to be effective, should be procured from both big and small
contributors. I learned from both NY cases that it was essential to obtain one or more "angels" which, by
co -assuming pride of ownership, would be willing to provide significant, perhaps multi -million dollar
contributions.
In the case of the Walk Over the Hudson. (www.walkway.ore) the entire effort was floundering,
according to Claire Constantino, a member of the Board (and a Marathon winter -time resident), until
the volunteer organization obtained the unwavering support of the Dyson Foundation. Incidentally, the
Dyson Foundation currently provides grants to worthwhile projects sponsored by 501(c)3 organization,
as stated in their website (www.dvsonfoundation.ore). Note for John: it may be worthwhile to inquire
directly with them how to apply for a grant. Mr. Dyson, who has taken a personal interest in ensuring
that the park is successful, is closely related to the Flagler family (yes, our Flagler). In fact, I heard from
Claire that he got married at the Flagler family estate, near Poughkeepsie. Once we understand how the
Dyson Foundation provides grants, I can then ask Claire Constantino to contact Mr. Dyson personally to
seek his interest in assisting us.
In the case of the Highline Park, (www.thehiehline.ore), Mayor Blumberg took personal interest in
ensuring the success of this park, and enlisted many of his Wall Street contacts. However, the main
factor that ensured financial support for this fascinating urban park, is that the "Friends of the Highline",
in particular its two co-founders, Robert Hammond and Joshua David, set up a three-legged approach:
Political Pressure: Put relentless pressure on the authorities to ensure that the park would not
be lost. I was told that the Giulani administration had moved to demolish the then -existing
railroad lines as a nuisance, and that the constant PR pressure of the Friends of the Highline
prevented that from happening, until a more friendly, environmentally -conscious Bloomberg
administration came on to support their efforts.
ii. Professional Studies: Commissioned two studies:
a. An economic cost -benefit analysis that proved, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that
implementation of a plan to save the Highline while creating a unique world -class park
facility would bring much higher economic benefits (in the form of increased real
estate values, tax increment, new boutiques and restaurants, and tourists) than the
associated costs of creating and maintaining the facility.
b. An architectural/landscape design competition, inviting a number of internationally
recognized design professionals. The final award went to a well -recognized
consortium of firms, which also included structural engineers. The team was then
hired to produce detailed engineering, plant deployment and construction plans. This
team is now in charge of the implementation of Phase II and will, most likely, be
involved in the final Phase III of the project, its most ambitious one, involving the full
development of the old Railroad Yard.
These two plans have become the master plans for development.
iii. Relentless Public Relations: Conducted a very savvy public information campaign, with
professional -quality web site and publication distribution materials designed to continuously
involved the community, the political "class", neighborhood businesses, park users and
tourists, accompanied by a constant PR effort with the local, national and international media.
The Foundation is constantly creating events of all types, including Public Art, Food Festivals,
School Programs, etc., involving a wide swath of groups. It has a very active membership drive
program, all designed to involve the community at all levels.
Most people talked to during this trip about what we intended to do were quite aware of the unique beauty of the Keys
and, in particular, the striking potential of the Old Seven Mile Bridge, in particular its unique over -the -water experience.
CALL TO ACTION
We now have the perfect opportunity to not only save the bridge but to create a one -of -a -kind set of world -class
facilities which will focus on Marathon and the Middle Keys as an eco-friendly family destination, not just as a "drive -
through" on the way to Key West, as it is now. In my opinion, we should move quickly in various fronts, to:
1. Establish our entity as a statutory 501(c) 3 non-profit corporation.
2. Aggressively demand a commitment from FDOT for the $16M, while indicating that we want their assistance in
determining how the project is conducted, we need to have us and our City and County partners have final say in
establishing the final shape of the project.
3. Address concerns brought up by Rod LeMasters towards obtaining a definition as to the structural status of, and
improvement requirements for, the bridge.
4. Apply for a significant commitment (+-$100K) from the Monroe County TDC to fund a design competition under the
concept of enhancing the long -stated goal of making Marathon and the Middle Keys an attractive eco-tourism
family destination, not just a pass -through for day visitors on their way to Key West.
5. Once we obtain funding commitment for this competition, invite a number of carefully selected internationally -
renowned architectural/landscaping/engineering teams to participate. The invited design teams must get clear
marching orders, thus careful attention must be given to the competition's terms of reference (TOR). Design
concepts should cover not only the actual bridge but also integrate seamlessly Pigeon Key, Sunset Park, Knights Key
and perhaps other ecologically -oriented attractions, such as the Crane and other facilities in Marathon which may
help us achieve the above -stated goal of making this community an eco-tourism family destination. While avoiding
designs that may over -commercialize the bridge, we should seriously consider its potential to become a "Mallory
Square over the water" for our area.
6. Conduct an economic cost/benefit assessment which would identify, over a 10-20 year -period:
a. Future capture of benefits from: enhanced patronage of the facilities; increased visitor spending in existing
hotels, restaurants and shops; value added by new private facilities, including first class hotel
accommodations and restaurants; property tax value added to the entire tax base of Marathon by making
the community a more desirable place to visit, shop and live in.
b. Against projected costs and operating expenses, including initial capital expenditure to bring the facilities to
desired status, as well as on -going yearly maintenance.
c. A reasonable financing plan to underwrite initial capital expenditures, on -going maintenance and operating
expenses against potential revenue flows. This plan would include public and private sources as well as
identified costs and benefits.
I will be more than happy to undertake such a study on a pro-bono basis. I have developed extensive experience in
this type of analysis through my work as tourism planning advisor to various international organizations and private
companies, including the World Bank, Organization of American States and Government of Holland. Thus, I can
produce a professional analysis based on national and international recognized standards
7. Commit to the City of Marathon our willingness to structure a viable organizational platform capable of partnering
with the City of Marathon and Monroe County in the maintenance of the project, once built.
8. Identify one or more private sector "angels" willing and able to contribute significant funds to supplement public
sector financing, whether British Petroleum (through their Gulf Recovery $20B fund), Adolphus Busch, Dyson,
Flagler and/or others. It would be truly a pity if the only thing we get out of this is a "concrete ribbon", as framed by
the $16M envisioned by FDOT. We need to make this a truly functional and unique world -class facility. Thus, we
would need at least $6-$14M additional for enhancement features and/or landscaping (for a potential total
anywhere from $22M to $30M).
9. Design and execute a strong public relations campaign, including web and printed media, to obtain community
support by enhancing the profile of the project.
10. Convert the local community into true "stakeholders" by selling memberships, commemorative plaques, parts of
the iron railings, etc.
We will be able to obtain significant guidance and support from people in the two projects I visited who have "walked
the walk".
As always, I stand ready to assist our joint efforts in any and all constructive ways.
Bernard Spinrad
From: Jason Koler [mailto:jason@keysweekly.com]
Sent: Monday, June 06, 2011 9:45 AM
To: John Morrill; Rod & Debra LeMasters; Ben Daniels; Carolyn Anthony; Kathy Wiljanen; Marjie Mearns; PATTY IVEY;
Bettye Chaplin; Jim Rhyne; George Steinmetz; Riet Steinmetz; Mike -Vice President; Marlene Morato; Pigeonkey; Frank
GUYAMIER; Bernard Spinrad; Bess and Bill; Bartus
Subject: Re: John to Frank - Your Opinion Please - Pigeon Key
Importance: High
Interested ^- ,
In an - )OT Legislative Affairs officer Cindy Price, she says, "only the cover page of the bridge
inspection f epo, I can be released to the public, as directed in s. 119.071(3). The cover page contains general
. rmatior -s: bridge number, inspection date, location, mp, section number, functional obsolete, structural
deity,
ency rating."
According to Patty Ivey, the $16 million price tag is a legitimate number and she is recommended that DOT's
District Engineer makes a presentation to the officials of Monroe County. He has agreed, but the date of this is
yet to b .,„ ,raced.
In order to get DOT to fix the bridge, we must provide them with new steward once the repairs are complete.
This would be either the DEP or a conglomerate of organizations working together like any or all of Monroe
County. the city of Marathon, the Tourist Development Council, Pigeon Key Foundation, and Save Old Seven.
Although there is still no concrete evidence of our work, there is progress.
Mike Puto had a meeting with Gov Scott over the weekend and the pressure is on to find a solution.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Thanks for all the hardwork.
Jason Koler
Editor/Publisher
The Weekly Newspapers
www.keysweekly.com
(305) 743-0844 (Marathon office)
(305) 743-0866 (fax)
(305) 481-1463 (cell)
Mason ®kevsweekly.com
Advertising Disclaimer
Approvals: Advertisements placed in the Weekly Newspapers must be approved via email by 2 pm on the Thursday prior to publication,
otherwise approval will be assumed and advertisement will be published at the agreed upon price. Cancellation: Advertisers may cancel
their placements until noon on the Wednesday prior to publication. Late cancellations will be subject to booking fee.
On Jun 5, 2011, at 7:47 AM, John Morrill wrote:
Frank:
I did not see you copied on this thorough and beautifully written e-mail from Rod LeMasters. What
are your professional thoughts about Rod's many points or observations, particularly related to
theFederal Enhancement Program?
Others: Where are we with getting reports about previous inspections? The last I heard (weeks ago),
Margie said she was calling Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen for help in getting these reports.
Personally, I am embarrassed if we cannot even get these reports for an expert like Rod to examine.
John Morrill
Professional Writer
iohn arantspro.net
www.erantst)ro.net
239-634-7878
<image002.png>
From: Rod & Debra LeMasters [mailto:rodlemasters@sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Saturday, June 04, 2011 9:33 PM
To: John Morrill; Jason Koler; Ben Daniels; Carolyn Anthony; Kathy Wiljanen; Madie Meams; PATTY IVEY; Bettye
Chaplin; Jim Rhyne; George Steinmetz; Riet Steinmetz; Mike -Vice President; Marlene Morato; Pigeonkey
Subject: Pigeon Key Bridge
To the Pigeon Foundation Board:
I consider it an honor to provide assistance to the Pigeon Key Foundation to obtain direct access to the facilities at Pigeon
Key across a safe and beneficial bridge. With this email I want to make sure that everyone understands my position. I
have been employed by a company known as U.S. Bridge in Cambridge, Ohio for over 31 years. I am a Registered
Professional Engineer in thirteen states, including Florida. U.S. Bridge has no interest in my activities in assisting the
Pigeon Key Foundation and does not oppose anything I am doing. I will accept no compensation for my professional
assistance with this project. I love the Keys and by assisting the Pigeon Key Foundation with this project I feel a tighter
bond with the area.
I am still learning about the issues with the bridge being condemned by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)
and the recent funding discussions between Monroe County and FDOT. To reiterate my comments about rehabilitating
historic bridges I have been involved with several projects in Ohio that the county applied for and was granted Federal
Enhancement Program funding through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). As I understand the facts about the
program it is geared toward rehabilitating historically significant bridge structures. I also understand that in recent years it
has been difficult to obtain funding due to the increased number of local governments seeking funding for their projects.
In the past I have heard that there was usually little interest in the program but in recent years there has been increased
interest in saving historic structures. I think that the Pigeon Key bridge is a very worthy and very well documented
structure that should qualify for necessary funding.
Marjie Mearns brought up the use of a fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) decking material that is manufactured by the Martin
Marietta Corporation. There is another FHWA funding program that deals with innovative materials. At one time the
projects awarded funding thru this program were loosely considered to be innovative. The program had a set amount of
funds to distribute every year and there was a shortage of new products being proposed. A few years ago I dealt with
several bridges with various types of FRP materials. One thing that was easily observed was that the FRP decking did
not hold up to continuous heavy truck traffic. It is a very strong and weather resistant decking material best used on lightly
traveled bridges. The Pigeon Key bridge would be a perfect location to use this type of decking material if it can be
modified to fit on the existing steel plate girders.
There is also a couple of other precast concrete decking types that would provide a very good deck if the existing steel
plate girders can be reused. One style is called Inverset and involves a precast concrete deck poured with integral
transverse steel beams which would look almost identical to the present concrete deck and steel supports. This deck is
currently manufactured by a company in New York called Fort Miller Construction. It has been around for several years
but still may qualify as an innovative material with a few tweaks of the design to fit the existing bridge girders.
The second precast concrete decking type is currently being developed by a small company in Ohio called Scioto Valley
Precast. I have seen the design drawings and am thoroughly convinced it can be adapted to fit on the existing steel plate
girders. The first bridge with this deck will be installed later this summer in Ohio and I am planning to witness the
installation. There has been a lot of interest in the development of the decking and the Texas Department of
Transportation has asked the president of the company to give a presentation of the virtues of this decking.
When I visited the Pigeon Key Bridge on May 16, 1 viewed the bridge from ocean level in an open boat. To consider my
visit to be an inspection I would have had to climbed onto the steel framework and traveled the full length of the bridge to
verify it's condition. I would have used a chipping hammer and other tools to verify the extent of any rusting and the
integrity of all structural components. A full inspection of this bridge would take several days and should be performed by
a team of bridge inspectors. Since about 1969 federal law requires that every bridge is inspected every two years. The
Pigeon Key bridge should have quite a library of information gleaned in previous inspections. The inspection that
mandated it's closing should have quite a lot of inspection information and photos. This information should include actual
measurements of structural section loss due to rust and the locations of the most deteriorated areas.
During my visit I saw enough of the bridge from the boat that I consider the piers and the steel framework to be in
relatively good condition. My experience level also tells me that there could be badly deteriorated areas that I did not see
from ocean level. For this reason I have asked to see the inspection report that mandated that the bridge be closed.
As I understand the situation, Monroe County owns Pigeon Key and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)
owns the bridge. Maintaining the bridge to safely allow public access to Pigeon Key is the responsibility of FDOT. All
government agencies are suffering budget shortfalls and a bridge such as this will have minimal traffic and a lower priority
for maintenance. Maintaining a bridge at this location due to the historical significance of the location and the activities
being performed by the Pigeon Key Foundation should create a higher priority that would easily steer financing such as
the Federal Enhancement Funding and the Federal Innovative Material Funding to this bridge.
In past discussions, did the FDOT state that they would fully fund all work on the bridge or did they ask for assistance
from outside sources such as the county participation, private donations, or federal funding? Is the final concept of the
bridge strictly according to the FDOT or does Monroe County and the Pigeon Key Foundation have any input? Is the
design of the work on the bridge going to be performed by the FDOT or are they going to hire a design consultant?
I have heard in discussions that the FDOT is considering complete removal of the bridge superstructure leaving only the
concrete piers. I have heard comments that in recent years the existing piers are still curing and are quite capable of
supporting a new superstructure. The new concrete girders and concrete deck could be much heavier than the existing
steel superstructure. I am concerned about adding this much additional weight to the existing piers. I believe that the
rehabilitated bridge should be very similar to the existing structure for historical purposed and keep the loads on the piers
similar to what they are now.
In my work in Ohio I have worked on several historic steel truss bridges. Most of the bridges are on rural roads with little
traffic and the final design of the bridge results in a few limitations. These limitations are usually narrower than standard
roadways, lighter vehicle weight limits, or combinations of these. In some locations the historic bridge has been bypassed
and then converted to a pedestrian bridge. In most cases, pedestrian bridges are designed to carry pedestrian loadings
and additional loads based on the width of the pedestrian path. For example a very short and narrow bridge may only be
expected to accommodate foot traffic only but a wider bridge may be required to carry foot traffic plus certain
maintenance and/or rescue vehicles.
In the case of the Pigeon Key bridge carrying a two lane vehicular bridge with pedestrian walkways would be ideal. The
vehicular loading would normally be very light but provisions must be considered for maintenance, emergency, and supply
vehicles.
As a final note the design for upgrading the bridge may include stipulations such items as elastomeric bearings, crash
tested rail systems,and extremely heavy vehicle loadings which may never use this bridge but may be based on
requirements of the funding source used to rehabilitate the structure.
Please feel free to contact me at any time that you think I may be able to help with technical questions. I am also willing
to travel to Florida to attend meetings based on advanced notice and my obtaining leave from my job. I currently have no
definite dates for my next visit to the Keys.
Rod LeMasters
505 South Moose Eye Road
Norwich, OH 43767
Home Phone: (740) 872-3880
Work Cell: (740) 225-0307
Debbie's Cell (740) 819-8393
Home Email: rodlemasters@sbcalobal.net
Work Email: rod@usbridae.com
Peters -Katherine
From: Lamarche -Tamara
Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2011 4:36 PM
To: Cyr -Connie
Cc: Peters -Katherine
Subject: FW: Friends of Old Seven, Inc. - Accompanying text to the draft resolutions.
Importance: High
Below is the mission info received, along with the state website info should be adequate.
5a'-wrara el ma,4e
Tamara Lamarche
Executive Assistant
Monroe County Commissioner David Rice
9400 Overseas Highway, Ste. 210
Marathon, FL 33050
Ph: 305 289-6000
Fx: 305 289-4610
"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." -- Anne Frank
Please note: Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from the County regarding County business are public
record, available to the public and media upon request. Your e-mail communication may be subject to public disclosure.
From: Bernard Spinrad [mailto:bspinrad@idasnet.com]
Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2011 3:49 PM
To: Lamarche -Tamara
Cc: 'Bernard Spinrad'; jason@keysweekly.com; john@grantspro.net;'marathonchappy@bellsout:h.net;
'mikeputo@aol.com'; pigeonkey@aol.com; 'Rietttt@aol.com'
Subject: Friends of Old Seven, Inc. - Accompanying text to the draft resolutions.
Importance: High
Tamara:
This is in response to your request for a descriptive statement on Friends of Old Seven, Inc. How about the text below?
It's what we are currently using to headline our web site's home page (www.old7.org and/or
www.friendsofoldseven.ori;) , as well as our 501(c) 3 application.
Bernard Spinrad
**************************************************
Friends of Old Seven has been established to serve as a credible and official entity that is responsible for
expressing public input to the ongoing processes revolving around the planning and reconstruction of the Old
Seven Mile Bridge.
One important activity by the Friends of Old Seven is to participate in planning and design meetings with
various other project stakeholders including but not limited to the Florida State Department of Transportation,
the City of Marathon, the County of Monroe, various service clubs and other non-profit organizations, and the
general public.
A second activity of Friends of Old Seven will be to raise funds through various tactics and to contribute
toward the reconstruction and/or maintenance of a new Seven Mile Bridge.
The Old Seven Mile Bridge — 100 years old, 2.2 miles long, and traversing what is considered to be the most
beautiful section of the Florida Overseas Highway (a 120 mile stretch between Miami and Key West —
America's newest National Scenic Corridor route) — needs to be rebuilt or significantly renovated. Costs for
such range from $10 to $25 million, depending upon design and life projections for a new span.
In the Florida Keys, there is no name more famous than the iconoclastic Henry Flagler who dreamed and built
the world famous Overseas Railroad in the early 1900's. Called the 8th wonder of the world, this amazing
ribbon of steel and concrete forever changed the history of the Florida Keys.
Both before and after Flagler's railroad was partially destroyed by the "Storm of the Century' in 1935, tens of
millions of Keys visitors have travelled along the railroad's route - by rail before the Labor Day hurricane or by
road up to present times. There is arguably no more important spot along the 120 mile Overseas Highway than
Pigeon Key — Flagler's construction headquarters and the start of the most spectacular (and beautiful) section
of all along the overseas route — the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
Today the Old Seven Mile Bridge to Pigeon Key is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is
home to the only authentic museum documenting construction of the Overseas Railroad. Between 1908-1912,
as many as 400 workmen lived on the five acre Pigeon Key and this heritage is remarkably preserved as a
special destination treat to all who traverse the 2.2 mile section of what locals now call the "Old Seven Mile
Bridge".
Since 1982, when a new Seven Mile Bridge section was completed to accommodate modern traffic and taller
ships, the section known as Old Seven Mile Bridge has served as a world famous fishing pier, jogging, and
walking route, and of course the major path to Pigeon Key. In the last several years, tens of thousands of
visitors have enjoyed a ride on "Henry'— an authentic looking train designed to accentuate the visit to Pigeon
Key.
Presently, the Old Seven Bridge is embroiled in an emotional tug-of-war with its very existence at stake. While
the concrete pylons of the famous structure are in remarkably good condition, there is no doubt the steel
supporting the roadbed has deteriorated. Now, the Florida DOT (present owner) has closed the bridge to
vehicle traffic — prohibiting even the beloved "Henry' from plying its span. Rumblings from Tallahassee
portend a sad future for Old Seven — even fishermen may no longer cast from the span. Worse, a five-year
commitment by Florida DOT to provide ferry service to Pigeon Key is jeopardized by severe budget shortfalls
in Tallahassee. Despite these threats to Old Seven, an incredible 100,000 people annually walk the span for
exercise, for views of priceless sun rises and sun sets, to view the incredibly abundant water life just below,
and to dream of another century when life was not so fast.
Sustained and broad -based political will is required if local, state, federal, and private resources are to be
secured to Save Old Seven. A petition campaign entitled "Save Old Seven" is now underway to gather the
names, addresses, and a -mails of thousands of individuals and families who support both public and private
efforts to "Save Old Seven". Considering that the total population of Marathon is just 10,000, and that 100,000
annually walk the bridge, Old Seven stakeholders obviously come from locations far and wide. Florida DOT is
working with these stakeholders to develop present day estimates of what it would take to rebuild the bridge
roadway, albeit in a more streamlined form that what presently exists. All stakeholders agree that at a
minimum, the new structure should be able to accommodate pedestrians, at least an electric version of "Henry"
for moving big numbers of people across the bridge to Pigeon Key, and occasional emergency vehicles.
John Morrill
Professional Writer
iohn@erantspro.net
www.erantspro.net
239-634-7878
Concept Paper
A Design Competition Focused Upon Replacement of the Old Seven Mile Bridge
June 2011
Capsule Summary
The Old Seven Mile Bridge — 100 years old, 2.2 miles long, and traversing what is considered to be the
most beautiful section of the Florida Overseas Highway (a 120 mile stretch between Miami and Key
West — America's newest National Scenic Corridor route) — needs to be rebuilt or significantly renovated.
Costs for such range from $10 to $25 million, depending upon design and life projections for a new span.
In an effort to gain superior construction design ideas, as well as to significantly expand structure
enthusiasts worldwide, local stakeholders are seeking to secure significant funding from the Monroe
County Tourist Development Council to execute a world class structure design competition, attracting
up to 20 internationally renowned architects and/or structure designers. Stakeholders are hopeful that
the TDC will fund significant out -county and national advertising for the competition and local
stakeholders (led by the Pigeon Key Foundation — the bridge leads to the island of Pigeon Key) are
prepared to raise funds for the four -day design competition event to be held in September, 2012. What
is needed to make the design competition successful is a national sponsor willing to contribute
between $65,000-$100,000 for prizes for the top three winners of the competition event.
The Setting
In the Florida Keys, there is no name more famous than the iconoclastic Henry Flagler who dreamed and
built the world famous Overseas Railroad in the early 1900's. Called the 8th wonder of the world, this
amazing ribbon of steel and concrete forever changed the history of the Florida Keys.
Both before and after Flagler's railroad was partially destroyed by the "Storm of the Century" in 1935,
tens of millions of Keys visitors have travelled along the railroad's route - by rail before the Labor Day
hurricane or by road up to present times. There is arguably no more important spot along the 120 mile
Overseas Highway than Pigeon Key — Flagler's construction headquarters and the start of the most
spectacular (and beautiful) section of all along the overseas route — the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
Today the Old Seven Mile Bridge to Pigeon Key is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is
home to the only authentic museum documenting construction of the Overseas Railroad. Between
1908-1912, as many as 400 workmen lived on the five acre Pigeon Key and this heritage is remarkably
preserved as a special destination treat to all who traverse the 2.2 mile section of what locals now call
the "Old Seven Mile Bridge".
Since 1982, when a new Seven Mile Bridge section was completed to accommodate modern traffic and
taller ships, the section known as Old Seven Mile Bridge has served as a world famous fishing pier,
jogging, and walking route, and of course the major path to Pigeon Key. In the last several years, tens of
thousands of visitors have enjoyed a ride on "Henry" — an authentic looking train designed to accentuate
the visit to Pigeon Key. See photo gallery, Appendix 1
The Challenge
Presently, the Old Seven Bridge is embroiled in an emotional tug-of-war with its very existence at stake.
While the concrete pylons of the famous structure are in remarkably good condition, there is no doubt
the steel supporting the roadbed has deteriorated. Now, the Florida DOT (present owner) has closed
the bridge to vehicle traffic — prohibiting even the beloved "Henry" from plying its span. Rumblings from
Tallahassee portend a sad future for Old Seven — even fishermen may no longer cast from the span.
Worse, a five-year commitment by Florida DOT to provide ferry service to Pigeon Key is jeopardized by
severe budget shortfalls in Tallahassee. Despite these threats to Old Seven, an incredible 100,000
people annually walk the span for exercise, for views of priceless sun rises and sun sets, to view the
incredibly abundant water life just below, and to dream of another century when life was not so fast.
Sustained and broad -based political will is required if local, state, federal, and private resources are to
be secured to Save Old Seven. A petition campaign entitled "Save Old Seven" is now underway to
gather the names, addresses, and a -mails of thousands of individuals and families who support both
public and private efforts to "Save Old Seven". Considering that the total population of Marathon is just
10,000, and that 100,000 annually walk the bridge, Old Seven stakeholders obviously come from
locations far and wide. Florida DOT is working with these stakeholders to develop present day estimates
of what it would take to rebuild the bridge roadway, albeit in a more streamlined form that what
presently exists. All stakeholders agree that at a minimum, the new structure should be able to
accommodate pedestrians, at least an electric version of "Henry" for moving big numbers of people
across the bridge to Pigeon Key, and occasional emergency vehicles.
While considerable dialogue, local editorials, political pledges, and growing numbers of stakeholders all
suggest chances are good to replace the failing bridge, something "spectacular" is needed to break-
through to the next level of activity required to get the job done.
Researchina Similar Projects
Railroads played a major role during the country's development throughout the 19th and early parts of
the 20th centuries. They spurred the country's coast -to -coast and north -south expansion, providing
needed transportation for both goods and people. in the process, railroad companies, and their owners,
acquired immense wealth, most of it concentrated in vast real estate holdings granted, as development
incentives, by the federal government as incentives. Most railroad -owned real estate was along broad
swaths of land parallel to the actual lines being built. The introduction of the petroleum -based internal
combustion engine, provided highly efficient automobiles and trucks which gradually made trains a less
desirable means of transporting both people and goods.
By the second half of the 20th century, many railroad service companies had gone out of business,
effectively giving up the routes acquired previously. While some retained the underlying real estate,
others opted for selling it to developers, others to state transportation departments. When the
Overseas Railroad ceased operations In the Florida Keys, the railroad right-of-way, including the Old
Seven Mile Bridge, was acquired by the Florida Department of Transportation, which converted it into
the Overseas Highway, linking mainland Florida with Key West. In many cases, including the two
discussed below, discarded railroad right-of-ways were initially to be demolished as potential safety
hazards, then some of them eventually saved and transformed into valuable "greenways" and scenic
parks.
To learn from the experiences of others engaged in rescuing similar facilities elsewhere, a member of
our group recently visited two highly successful New York "railroad -to -park" converted facilities which
bear strong analogy with the Old Seven Mile Bridge project. During those visits, he met with active
stakeholders of their two supporting non-profit organizations, including foundation board members, as
well as principals of architecture/landscaping firms engaged by one of the projects to provide
conceptual and detailed plans for the conversion: 'The Hiahline", located in the Meat Packing District,
lower Manhattan; and the "Walk Over the Hudson State Historic Park'; joining the cities of
Poughkeepsie and Highland Park, New York State.
The Highline, (www.thehiehline.ore) — (see photo gallery, Appendix 2a): This beautifully -landscaped
roadbed once provided the foundation for a railroad bringing supplies to be processed and then
distributed nationwide from the then -run thriving Meat Packing District of lower Manhattan. Due to
economic reasons, the old Highline railroad had been abandoned and remained unused for many years,
the tracks overgrown with weeds and other natural -growing plants and rapidly deteriorating, a similar
fate to what was then happening to the blighted Meat Packing District itself.
A previous City administration saw it as an urban sore and safety hazard, and decreed its demolition.
However, a committed group of volunteer neighbors developed the vision that a beautifully designed
linear park, focusing on the Highline's stunning views of the Big Apple's skyline weaving into the area's
urban fabric and waterfronts, and benefitting from much of the existing natural vegetation, could not
only save the Highline, but also play an important part in the redevelopment of the entire Meat Packing
neighborhood. The leaders of the "Friends of the Highline", a 501(c)(3) not -for -profit organization,
were successful in staying demolition, and with the full support of the new Bloomberg administration,
obtained significant public and private funding and eventually succeeded in building a world -class park.
Phase I was fully completed in 2009,. Phase II was recently completed and opened to the public in late
May, 2011. The stretch currently open to the more than 2 million annual visitors runs from Gansevoort
Street to 30th Street, approximately 2 miles.. Phase III, perhaps the most ambitious and costly part of the
overall project, involving the mixed -use redevelopment of a large railroad yard, is being eyed for
completion sometime after 2014.
The "Highline", skirting the Big Apple with stunning views of the city's skyline and waterfronts, is today a
world -class destination attracting millions of visitors and local citizens. It is also a major factor in the
economic revitalization of the underlying Meat Packing District which, with its international hotels, a
wide variety of restaurants and chic boutiques, is today one of the most sought-after residential and
shopping districts in all of New York. At the southern end, a new Renzo Piano -designed branch of the
Whitney Museum is under construction, its 200,000 sq. ft. space scheduled to open in 2,015.
Our research revealed that the High -Line's renaissance and its unquestionable success were wholly born
of a design competition, exactly like the concept envisioned for the Old Seven Mile Bridge. This design
competition was complemented by a savvy combination of fund raising, lobbying, public relations,
including extensive broad -based communications media, and community involvement.
The invitation -only architectural/landscape design competition involved a number of internationally
recognized design professionals. "Friends of the Highline" obtained funding to provide prize money for
the first 3 winners. The final award went to a well -recognized consortium of firms, which also included
structural engineers. The team was then hired to produce detailed engineering, plant deployment and
construction plans. This team has completed implementation of Phase II.
This was complemented by a thorough financial and economic study which proved, beyond the shadow
of a doubt, that implementation of a plan to save the Highline while creating a unique world -class park
facility would bring much higher economic benefits (in the form of increased real estate values, tax
increment, new boutiques and restaurants, and tourists) than the associated costs of creating and
maintaining the facility.
These two plans have become the master plans for development.
The Walkway Over the Hudson State Historical Park Iwww.walkway, ora): (Photo gallery, Appendix
2b): The 1.3-mile former railroad bridge connecting Highland to Poughkeepsie way up over the Hudson
River gorge, looms over the site. The wildly popular pedestrian bridge — the longest in the world,
according to the nonprofit behind it — has drawn more than 750,000 tourists, three times the expected
number, since its debut in October 2009. A brief history:
1868 - An article in the Poughkeepsie Journal introduced the idea of building a railroad bridge across
the Hudson.
1871- The Poughkeepsie railroad bridge was chartered.
1873 - The first cornerstone of the bridge was laid.
1888 - The bridge opened in December and was considered a technological wonder.
• 1889 - Trains started crossing and at that time it was the longest bridge in the world.
World War II - through the war, the bridge carried troops to be shipped overseas. At its height, 3,500
train cars crossed the bridge on a daily basis.
• 1974 - Fire severely damaged the tracks, ending almost a century of continuous use.
1992 - Walkway Over the Hudson began its efforts to provide public access to the bridge and link rail
trails on both sides of the Hudson.
1998 - Walkway Over the Hudson assumed ownership of the bridge.
2007 - Walkway Over the Hudson partnered with the Dyson Foundation to access public and private
funding in order to transform the bridge into the world's largest pedestrian park.
2008 - After a groundbreaking held in May, construction work began transforming the bridge into a
pedestrian park.
• 2009 - Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park opens to the public, October 3, 2009.
Walkway Over the Hudson was founded in 1992, with the mission to inspire people to connect to the
beauty of the Hudson Valley through long-term stewardship of the Walkway Over the Hudson State
Historic Park and support of the regional trail system, which offer public enjoyment of the bridge's
historic architecture, the scenic wonders of the Hudson River Valley and the diversity of its recreational
and cultural activities. The partnership with the Dyson Foundation provided much needed private sector
funds, which complemented public sector funds, particularly from the Federal Government's Rails -to -
Trails program and from New York State Department of Parks.
In 2006, Walkway Over the Hudson issued Terms of Reference (TORS) to interested regional architecture
companies to provide design concepts for the conversion of the bridge into a pedestrian park and for
the formulation of a Master Plan for the area. Firms provided their qualifications and basic concepts,
and a Selection Committee, drawn from the organization, selected the winning firm, which then
provided a final concept.
in an effort to quantify the potential economic benefits of the project, Walkway Over the Hudson
commissioned an economic development research firm to conduct an economic and fiscal impact study.
In sum, the results of this study were overwhelmingly positive. It estimated that the bridge would have
an annual usage rate of 267,700 visits per year. Of those visits, it was expected 157,700 would be from
local residents and 110,000 visits would be generated from non -local visitors. All visits were expected to
generate approximately $14.6 million in direct spending, which in turn would result in a total economic
impact of $21 million in indirect annual spending in the regional and state economies. This spending
would result in $727,400 new annual tax revenues to surrounding counties and $604,900 to New York
State. In all, $1.3 million of new annual tax revenues would be created if visitation was as predicted.
The Walkway organization reports that, in its first year of operation, the bridge received over 780,000
visitors - far exceeding the original estimate of 267,700. A follow-up study is now underway to evaluate
the projects actual economic impact and cost/benefit ratios.
What are the key drivers learned from these experiences? What steps can we take to ensure success for
our endeavor?:
• Set up a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization composed of committed, energetic leadership committed
to see the project through.
• Secure the financial and organizational support of state, county and city governments concerned
with safeguarding and maintaining the Seven Mile Bridge.
• Obtain a smooth transfer of bridge ownership from its current owner, FDOT, to a new "caretaker"
organization, be it the Florida Department of Environment or a similar public organization.
Concurrently, commit the non-profit to supporting the continuing maintenance of the bridge and
related facilities, so that its future owner does not have to take full responsibility for said
maintenance.
• Public financing alone will not do the job. We will need to secure the financial and organizational
support of key private sector entities. It will be necessary to identify and pursue one or more
"angels" committed to saving the historical heritage of the Seven Mile Bridge.
• Engage in a multi -pronged public relations and community outreach effort to ensure public support
and an ever increasing level of publicity surrounding the project at all stages of its future
development.
• Conduct an international competition among leading architecture and design firms. In addition to
providing firm, reachable guidelines for the integrated physical development of Seven Mile Bridge
and surrounding areas, it would provide a highly public event, around which we can coalesce
community support, including private and public funding.
• Conduct an economic impact study to quantify projected benefits of improving and maintaining the
bridge, including added visitor flows and expenditures, related real estate development, increased
taxes, against projected costs related to these improvements and maintenance.
The Proposed International Design Competition
Vision:
Save the Old Seven Mile Bridge stretch between Marathon and Pigeon Key, by creating
and maintaining a world -class, integrated park facility capable of attracting thousands
of new and existing users, thus enhancing the Middle Keys' objective of becoming a
family -oriented eco-tourism destination, more than a pass -through on the way to Key
West.
Type o
By invitation, to identified internationally -known architecture, landscaping and design
Competition
firms.
Proposed
• Draw List of Qualified Firms to be invited
Sequencing of
• Draft Terms of Reference (TOR)
Events
• Initiate Advertising Campaign focusing on Design Competition
• Issue Invitations to invited firms, with return Request for Qualifications
statements
• Based on qualifications, short-list invited participants to 12-15
• Schedule presentations by short-listed firms
• Schedule "open" design event at Pigeon Key
• Select winner(s)
• Ad campaign on winning designs
• Award ceremony and wide-ranging public presentations
Ex. Completion
September, 2012
Dote
Cost
• Design Competition Prizes (1s`, 2"d and 3rd) - $100,000
Parameters * Advertisement, Award Ceremony, Event Support - $65,000
The Proposed Economic Impact and Benefic-Cost Study
One of our members, Bernard Spinrad, has had considerable experience in overseeing studies analyzing
the economic impact of tourism projects for various international organizations (World Bank,
Organization of American States, Caribbean Tourism Organization, Government of Holland) and
economic research consulting firms throughout the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. He has
volunteered, once the architectural design plans are firmed up, to conduct such a study for the Old
Seven Mile Bridge restoration project. The results of this study can be then presented to potential public
and private funding sources when seeking financial support towards actual implementation of the
project.
The imputed value of this study is estimated at $20,000, a minimum cost figure if study were to be
conducted by a professional consulting firm.
Total Cost Breakdown for Master Plannine Phase
Purpose
Responsible Entity
"Hard"
"Value" j
Total
Advertising, Event Support
Monroe County Tourism
Development Council (TDCI
S65,000
$65,000
Design Competition Prizes
Private Donors)
100 000
S100,000
Event Support, Public
Relations, Community
Liaison, Communications
Pigeon Key Foundation
S20,000
S20,000
Economic Impact Study
Save Old Seven as a 5011c1131
S20,000
$20,000
TOTAL
S205,000
APPENDIX 1A
Gallery: Selected photos— "Seven Mile Bridge"
Pigeon Key and two bridges, Old and new
new
Old Seven — Piers and railings
Sunset on Old Seven
APPENDIX 2A
Gallery: Selected photos — "The Highline" — May 9, 2011
Diagram of Phases 1, 11 and 111-
Street access points
Stairs from street -level to Peple,
r?
P err, tt
People, Landscaping and Floor Platform
Organizational Structure
Visitors lounging in park=provided
chairs
Integrated bench
top of the Highline
APPENDIX 2B
Gallery: Selected photos — "Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park" — May 11, 2011
Historical Poster Series — 2 of 5
Historical Poster Series — 3 of 5
Historical Poster Series —1 of 5
Donor Listing Panels — 4 of 4
`""' ""`"" "" ""--, "'y"'""" Typical View — Towards Poughkeepsie side
Runner on Walkway One of many spectacular views
Garbage Pail
uonor Kequesr nox
Detail — Bridge Railing
Observation Telescope
Picnic benches — entrance to Rail trails
Friends of Old Seven, Inc.
a 501 (c) 3 non-profit Florida Corporation
G.5
Perceived Position of FDOT
(Based on Sept. 13, 2011 meeting with District 6 Secretary and Staff
► It currently owns the bridge, not interested in
maintaining ownership. Willing to:
• Participate in a one-time restoration to safety
• Turn over permanent ownership and maintenance to
other responsible entity(es) after restoration is completed
► Alternatively, close bridge to any traffic... i.e.,
Bahia Honda Bridge
► Open to discussion and joint cooperation, search
for a permanent solution
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011
4
FDOT Past Repair Option Proposals: (1)
Superstructure Repair:
► Maintain (1) lane of vehicular traffic
► Retain the original steel main girders
► Remove existing deck, floor beams and
brackets
► Replace with acast-in-place concrete
deck and traffic railing barrier.
• Estimated Construction Cost: $30 Million
� •ems
Fir
NLY� p
"�•• T•"•• Oi[1 StVEA MILE PRXY;t--
i:.'..''�,`„",' fnpN P.Kif0.h' KFY fv XN7(iN7 KEY RGYII�! ��;.%'Ef?;7fVl'�URe
- _ Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011
5
Estimated Annual Maintenance
Costs (Option 2)
► $50,0001year (as per FDOT estimates)
► 10- 15 years before major rehabilitation:
► Est. costs (2011$): $3.8 million
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners
9/20/2011
7
Who are we?
► A group of highly -motivated community -based volunteers deeply concerned
preserving this historical, recreational and tourism valuable asset
► Incorporated in Florida as a non-profit corporation — fast growing
► Applied for 501 (c) 3 status with IRS, waiting for approval
► Board Members:
• Bernard Spinrad, President o Riet Steinmetz, Treasurer
• Mike Puto, Vice President o Five (5) At -Large Members
► Close Coordination with Pigeon Key Foundation, Chamber of
Commerce and various public and private entities and groups.
► 6,000+ Signed Petitions to Save the Old Seven (SOS)
► 100,000+ annual visitors/users of Old Seven, per year
► Supporting community members throughout the Florida Keys
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011 9
Mission Statement
To establish and lead a public/private partnership to save, restore, enhance
and maintain the Old Seven Mile Bridge through sound planning, solid
public and private funding (including significant local counterpart sharing),
responsible project execution, scheduled maintenance and, first and
foremost, continuing widespread community support.
Vision
Through the application of fresh, innovative architectural/engineering design
alternatives, rehabilitate the Old Seven Mile Bridge while transforming it and
immediate areas (Pigeon Key, Sunset Park, Knights Key) into a unique
family -friendly integrated world -class eco-tourism destination for all of the
Florida Keys.
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
_ Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011 10
Purpose of this Presentation
Seek approval of Resolution before you to:
Recognize Friends of Old Seven as a leading
organization in ajoint-venture to save, rehabilitate
and maintain the 2.2 mile segment of the Old
Seven Mile Bridge between Knights Key and
Pigeon Key.
The partnership is expected to include Monroe County and various
public and private organizations, nationally, regionally and locally.
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
- Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011 11
Our Work Program
► Coordinate with various public agencies to achieve our Mission
► Apply to grants to fund our continuing community outreach
programs and eventually to contribute to the capital and
maintenance funding requirements.
► Obtain significant financial and in -kind support from:
• Florida Keys community
• National, regional and local private businesses and foundations.
► Raise community consciousness on the need to save and restore
Old Seven
► Develop strategies to arrive at the best solution for the Bridge,
including conducting design competitions for feasible development
alternatives, as well as economic development studies to determine
the impact which a refurbished Old Seven on the local economy.
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011
12
The Future is in our Hands!!!
Questions?
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/20/2011 16
The Future is in our Hands!!!
Questions?
Visit our website:
www.friendsofoldseven.orq or
www.old7.orq
In Facebook, search for "Friends of Old Seven"
Friends of Old Seven, Inc -
Presentation to Monroe County Board
of Commissioners 9/21/2011 16