Florida Construction News staff writer
The Manatee County Port Authority has been awarded $2 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) for critical infrastructure improvements at SeaPort Manatee, including reconstruction and repaving of key roadways and essential stormwater mitigation upgrades. Work is needed to upgrade the port’s resilience, support economic growth, and aid the region’s recovery from the economic challenges of the 2024 hurricane season.
“Today’s investment in SeaPort Manatee will grow Florida’s export potential and increase manufacturing in our great state,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “As Florida continues to attract more domestic and international business, it is critical that we strengthen Florida’s ports for greater operations.”
Aerospace and automotive manufacturer Honeywell is set to expand its operations at the port as a result.
“Seaports are the backbone of Florida’s supply chain, and with the growth at SeaPort Manatee, infrastructure investments are critically needed,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue. “I’m grateful for Gov. DeSantis and FloridaCommerce for this Florida Job Growth Grant Fund that will allow even more goods to reach communities across the state.”
Officials say the project will help attract new industries such as a cold storage warehouse, a fuel terminal, and a manufacturing facility.
The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is a statewide economic development program aimed at improving public infrastructure and supporting workforce training. Proposals for funding are selected based on the specific infrastructure or workforce needs of communities across the state.
