The Tarpon Belly Keys are a set of small islands four miles north of Cudjoe Key that were once the site of a shrimp farming facility. This project is an environmental effort to improve the shoreline of the uninhabited island. It is accessible only by water.

To offset impacts from airport infrastructure improvements as a result of the Taxiway A extension at Key West International Airport (EYW). The area was selected as a mitigation site due to significant need for shoreline stabilization and mangrove mitigation.

It is anticipated the mitigation project will start on Feb. 11 and end in Summer 2026.

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved the project on Nov. 15, 2024.

The mitigation project is permitted and reviewed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the federal level and by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, with coordination and approval from the South Florida Water Management District, at the state level. It is overseen on behalf of the airport by consulting firm Jacobs.

No. The mitigation project does not include development, buildings, or public access improvements. The site remains a protected environmental area focused solely on habitat restoration.

Mitigation activities include enhancement and preservation of mangrove habitats through the planting of black and red mangroves across 1.3 acres. The goal is a net improvement in wildlife habitat and water quality within the project area.

Restoration and enhancement of wetland and mangrove habitats

Establishment of native vegetation

Surveying and staking of mitigation areas

Ongoing inspection and monitoring to ensure long-term success

A portion of the islands will be closed during mitigation activities. The pink area below is where the work will take place. The red, thatched area will not be impacted.

Access restrictions are limited to the specified area and are related to activities during the project duration. Once mitigation goals are met and regulatory agencies approve site completion, the project will be 

finished.

Yes and yes. Access to the land will be restricted in some areas. The sandy area on the southwest side of the island is not included in the project area and will remain open to boating, fishing and swimming. The camping area will also remain open. 

The project supports:

Environmental stewardship in the Florida Keys

Protection of coastal and marine ecosystems

Responsible safety enhancements of airport infrastructure

Long-term sustainability 

Jacobs