Governor Ron DeSantis announced a $9.5 million grant for repair work at SeaPort Manatee, following infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Milton.
The Florida Governor with a statement announced assistance to the affected port and in addition urged various state agencies to join the efforts to get SeaPort Manatee back on full operations. SeaPort Manatee is the main deep-water port in Southwest Florida, handling fuel, fruits, vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and timber for distribution throughout the region and the Southeast.
Evaluations suggested potential losses of $225 million due to Hurricane Milton’s impact on 10 of the 13 warehouses, 3 of the 10 port-owned docking facilities, and the port’s offices.
This action to get SeaPort Manatee back to full operations will benefit the people of Florida, ensure the hardening of our infrastructure for future disasters, and ensure normal life is resumed for Floridians as soon as possible.
…said Governor Ron DeSantis.
The investment will include:
- $5.5 million for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters.
- $3.5 million for immediate security needs and access control.
- $500,000 to support planning activities for fortifying port infrastructure.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will supply experts and workers, while the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will expedite permits for rebuilding port infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will aid in the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will help restore perimeter security and repair the port fence.
With the major impact that seaports have on our state’s economy and the quality of life for our residents, it’s critical that we ensure our seaports are open and fully operational, particularly SeaPort Manatee given the significant damage they sustained following Hurricane Milton.
…said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. For each dollar the state invests in seaport infrastructure, the anticipated return is seven dollars in state and local taxes. In 2023, SeaPort Manatee supported 42,094 jobs in the U.S., generated $275 million in state and local taxes, and contributed $7.3 billion to the U.S. economy.
