PALMETTO, Fla. (CBS12) — SeaPort Manatee, an important seaport in Southwest Florida, has been awarded $9.5 million to aid in its recovery and repair efforts following the significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton.
This funding is crucial for theprimary deep-water port, Gov. Ron DeSantis stated. The port plays a vital role in receiving and distributing fuel, fruits, vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and wood across Southwest Florida and the Southeast.
After Milton’s devastation, initial damage assessments showed potential losses of $225 million at SeaPort Manatee. While many of the port’s losses are insured, some components are not. The damage includes the loss of 10 out of 13 on-site warehouses, three of the 10 port-owned docking facilities, and widespread damage to port offices.
The $9.5 million investment will be allocated as follows:
- $5.5 million for emergency berth (dock) 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.
In addition to this funding, several state agencies have been directed to assist the port in expediting recovery efforts.
“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 Gov. DeSantis. “Taking action to address these impacts now is imperative to keep Florida on the road to recovery.”
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According to the Governor’s Office, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will provide subject matter experts and skilled workers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will expedite all permits for the immediate rebuild of port infrastructure, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will support navigating the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will also provide personnel to reestablish perimeter security and assist in repairing 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 every state dollar invested in seaport infrastructure, the expected return on investment is $7 in state and local taxes, according to the news release. This funding and coordinated effort aim to restore SeaPort Manatee to full operations, benefiting the people of Florida and ensuring the hardening of infrastructure for future disasters.
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