Sunset Key

Sunset Key is a 27 acre exclusive resort island in the city of Key West, Florida, United States located about convert|500|yd off the coast of the island of Key West. The island is privately held among its residents, one of which is the Key West Westin which operates a small number of guest cottages. The island is only accessible by a shuttle boat that runs from the Westin Marina out to the island. The island consists of a total of 48 single-family homes and 21 vacant lots, all of which are valued at over $1.5 million. [Monroe County Property Appriaser's Office, 2006 Tax Assessment. [http://www.mcpafl.org/] ]

Its closest neighbor is Wisteria Island, about convert|200|yd north.

History

Sunset Key's official name is Tank Island. The United States Navy constructed Tank Island to serve as a fuel tank depot during the Cold War. Dredging began in 1965 to form the island as well as to build passageways for submarines and other large vessels. However, the Navy's plans changed and the island saw little military action. Only two of the twelve planned fuel tanks were constructed, and although the fuel lines were run, the tanks were never filled.

In 1986, the Government sold off Tank Island and other anchorages in Key West in an auction. In 1988, the tanks were dismantled while the remaining fuel lines served as conduits for water, sewage, and utility. Power cables were later laid alongside the existing fuel pipes.

In 1994, the island was re-purchased and renamed to Sunset Key. The island is now owned by Tom Walsh, who also owns the Westin Key West Resort & Marina. [ [http://www.sunsetkeyisland.com/history.htm Sunset Key History] ]

References