In 2018, Florida Power & Light (FPL) launched the Storm Secure Underground Program (the “Program”) to replace overhead neighborhood power lines in certain neighborhoods with underground power lines, in order to protect the neighborhood from the dangers of downed power lines following hurricanes and severe weather, in addition to enhancing reliability of power service throughout the year. The Program analyzes data from past hurricanes, as well as vegetation-related service interruptions and other reliability metrics to identify areas that would most benefit from having power lines installed underground. Currently, FPL is working on replacing overhead neighborhood power lines with underground lines in select neighborhoods in the City of Coral Gables. As part of the Program, FPL pays for all costs associated with the undergrounding project, at no expense to residents or businesses.

Please place on the agenda a referral to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee to discuss the FPL Program and whether any neighborhoods in the City of Miami Beach would be eligible for undergrounding of power lines through the Program. I would like for the Administration to identify whether any portions of the City would qualify for the Program, and whether the City Commission should take any steps, such as waiver of permit fees or other actions, that would encourage FPL to proceed with undergrounding of power lines in the City.  If any City neighborhoods do qualify for the Program, I would like for the City to work with FPL to facilitate implementation of an undergrounding project, to the fullest extent possible.

Should you have any questions or concerns about any of the foregoing, please do not hesitate to contact me.