SeaPort Manatee gets $9.5M to jumpstart hurricane recovery

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced 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.

“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. 

“Taking action to address these impacts now is imperative to keep Florida on the road to recovery.”

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.

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.