FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 27, 2018
DEP Southeast District Presents
Superior Excellence Distinction Award to AECOM and Sevenson
Environmental Services, Inc.
~Outstanding environmental practices highlighted during Southeast
District Open House~
 Pictured from left to right: Vic
Kamath, AECOM Regulatory Liaison; District Director Jennifer Smith; Dan
Levy, AECOM Vice President; and Babu Madabhushi, AECOM Project Manager.
WEST PALM BEACH,
Fla.
– Today, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Southeast
District recognized AECOM and Sevenson Environmental Services, Inc. for their
outstanding environmental stewardship and their exemplary commitment to
improving the Wagner Creek waterways in Miami-Dade County.
“On behalf of DEP, I am thrilled to
recognize AECOM and Sevenson Environmental Services, Inc. for coming up with a
dredging solution to a decades-long environmental problem. Dredging was needed
to remove contaminated sediments in Wagner Creek and the Seybold Canal and to
restore the drainage features of these waterways. These companies worked
collaboratively to implement an innovative solution that yielded a significant
achievement,” said Jennifer Smith, director of DEP’s Southeast District. “AECOM
and Sevenson Environmental Services, Inc. helped the city of Miami meet their
project goals.”
Representatives
from AECOM were on hand to accept the award. “The logistical challenges for this
project were substantial, including a direct hit from Hurricane IRMA (Category
4 Hurricane). The unique design of our dredge equipment and use of aqua dams
were effective and provides a new and innovative solution that can be used for
other dredging projects. When we help the environment a little bit- it’s
amazing how nature revives itself- these waterways are now healthier. We’re
seeing more manatees up stream and people are now able to really see the beauty
of this area,” said Dan Levy, AECOM Vice President.
“The
restoration of Wagner Creek and the Seybold Canal is indeed a major milestone
for the city of Miami as we work to be a Future City. It is a true
example of our commitment to resilience and environmental stewardship,” said
City Manager Emilio Gonzalez. “The will of our elected officials, the
leadership and skill of our Capital Improvements staff, and the commitment of
all our project partners are helping to build a stronger Miami.”
The award was presented during the
district’s annual open house aimed at growing the community’s awareness of the
agency’s mission, increasing communication and developing collaborative
relationships with the community. Southeast District staff enjoyed welcoming
customers and stakeholders throughout the region to the open house. Over 275 people attended representing local government, industry, utilities and more.
Guests were invited to meet the district’s leadership and staff. Permitting and
compliance experts from each of the district's regulatory programs – waste,
air, water and environmental resources – were on hand to answer questions and
provide information about their respective programs.
The Southeast District’s Superior
Excellence Distinction Award Program was developed to support DEP’s vision of
creating strong community partnerships, safeguarding Florida’s natural
resources and enhancing its ecosystems.
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