Hurricane Milton: Florida Injects $9.5 Million into SeaPort Manatee Recovery

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a $9.5 million emergency funding package for SeaPort Manatee, aiming to accelerate the port’s recovery in the wake of Hurricane Milton.

SeaPort Manatee, located at the entrance of Tampa Bay, is the primary deep-water seaport in Southwest Florida. It suffered extensive damage from the hurricane, with initial assessments indicating potential losses of $225 million. The destruction included 10 out of 13 on-site warehouses, three of the ten port-owned docking facilities, and widespread damage to port 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 DeSantis.

The emergency state funding of $9.5 million will be strategically allocated to address critical areas of recovery and fortification. The largest portion, $5.5 million, is earmarked for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters, ensuring the port’s ability to accommodate ships. An additional $3.5 million will be directed towards immediate security needs and access control, safeguarding the port’s operations. The remaining $500,000 will support planning activities aimed at fortifying port infrastructure, enhancing its resilience against future disasters.

Refueling Florida: Tankers Descend on Port Tampa Bay After Reopening

In addition to financial support, Governor DeSantis has mobilized multiple state agencies to expedite the recovery process. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will provide expert personnel, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will fast-track permits for rebuilding, and the Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will assist with the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will also contribute to reestablishing security measures.

“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.

Florida receives most of its fuel via ship from U.S. Gulf Coast refineries.

The importance of SeaPort Manatee to Florida’s economy cannot be overstated. As the closest U.S. deepwater seaport to the expanded Panama Canal, it plays a crucial role in the state’s logistics network. More than 40% of the state’s petroleum products typically arrive through Port Tampa Bay and SeaPort Manatee. In addition to fuel, the SeaPort Manatee handles fruits and vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and wood for distribution across Southwest Florida and the Southeast.

In 2023 alone, the SeaPort Manatee supported 42,094 U.S. jobs, generated $275 million in state and local taxes, and contributed $7.3 billion in economic value to the U.S. economy.

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