Earlier today, almost 250 representatives from private-sector contracting firms attended a “pre-proposal meeting” in Martin County for an Everglades construction contract expected to be in the range of $20 million.

There is a reason for this impressive turnout, and it is an example of the benefits that Everglades restoration has to Florida’s economy even before projects are completed. As demand for new residential and commercial construction has dwindled, restoration-related construction provides jobs and allows private companies to retain employees.

Convened by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the federal partner in Everglades restoration, this job-hungry crowd gathered to discuss the requirements to bid for the first of three pending construction contracts for the C-44 portion of the Indian River Lagoon project. Part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, the Indian River Lagoon project will restore conditions in this diverse estuary, which is home to more than 4,300 plant and wildlife species that have suffered from water pollution and changes in the delicate balance of fresh and salt water that is necessary for their survival.

The large scope and multi-year nature of these contracts provides economic stability for the company working on the project, while at the same time moving us closer to recovering the abundance of life that makes the Everglades such a unique natural treasure. The impressive turnout of competitors also demonstrates why now is the time to proceed with building projects to ensure the best return on our Everglades restoration investments. Taking advantage of decreases in land prices and construction materials will produce long-term savings while providing good jobs in a time of economic uncertainty. Everglades restoration just makes sense to these important Florida workers.