PALMETTO, FL — Governor Ron DeSantis announces the award of $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to jumpstart its recovery and help repair impacted infrastructure following significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton. SeaPort Manatee is the primary deep-water seaport in Southwest Florida. It receives fuel, fruits and vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and wood for distribution across Southwest Florida and the Southeast. Following Hurricane Milton, initial damage assessments indicated potential losses of $225 million at SeaPort Manatee. While many of the port's losses are insured, some components are not. Damage to the port includes the loss of 10 out of 13 onsite warehouses, three of the 10 port-owned docking facilities, and widespread damage to port offices. This 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

In addition to this funding, DeSantis directed several state agencies to step in and assist the port to expedite recovery efforts. The Florida Department of Transportation will provide subject matter experts and skilled workers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection will expedite all permits for the immediate rebuild of port infrastructure, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management will provide support in 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,” FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, PE said.