Florida Keys Announce Plans for Re-Entry
Officials Recommend Visitors Wait Until Friday

     Florida Keys' officials have announced the timing for return of residential evacuees and visitors to the island community
     According to Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Roth, residents will be allowed to begin returning to the Keys Wednesday morning beginning at 7:00 a.m. However, visitors are being asked to wait until Friday to return.
     Assessments of the Overseas Highway found the road and bridges in excellent shape except for Mile Marker 73.5, which was flooded. Florida Highway Patrol should be on hand along that stretch of the highway to assist with traffic control while Florida DOT workers clean-up that section of the road Wednesday.
     The recommendation to delay visitors' return to the Keys until Friday was made based on the premise that accommodations and tourist facilities would require at least a few days to get employees back, undo hurricane protection and clean up or repair any damage. Also, as of Tuesday evening, about 7,000 were without power in the Lower Keys and Key West. Visitors are advised to contact lodging facilities in advance to ensure their operating status.
     All county and municipal government offices and schools are to remain closed Wednesday, but are scheduled to reopen Thursday.
     South Florida's Miami-Dade County is reporting no closures. Government offices and schools should reopen Wednesday. Miami International Airport is open, as is the Port of Miami.