ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $2 Million to Manatee County Port Authority for Infrastructure Improvements at SeaPort Manatee Through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund

PALMETTO, Fla.— Today, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $2 million to the Manatee County Port Authority through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) for infrastructure improvements at SeaPort Manatee. This investment will fund the reconstruction and repaving of key roadways, including South Dock Street, as well as critical stormwater mitigation improvements. These enhancements will also strengthen port resiliency, support economic growth, and aid the region’s recovery from the economic impacts 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 Governor Ron DeSantis. “As Florida continues to attract more domestic and international business, it is critical that we bolster Florida’s ports for greater operations.”

“Seaports are the backbone of Florida’s supply chain and with the growth at SeaPort Manatee, infrastructure investments are critically needed,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “I'm grateful for Governor DeSantis and FloridaCommerce for this Florida Job Growth Grant Fund that will allow even more goods to reach communities across the state.”

This funding will enhance infrastructure to meet the growing demands of both existing and new businesses as they expand operations and create jobs. The project is expected to generate 300 jobs while improving port efficiency and supporting an expansion for home, aerospace, and automotive products manufacturer Honeywell. Additionally, these upgrades will help attract new businesses over the next five years, including a cold storage warehouse, a fuel terminal, and a manufacturing facility.

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by FloridaCommerce and are chosen by Governor DeSantis to meet the demands for workforce training or infrastructure needs in communities around the state.

For more information on the Job Growth Grant Fund, click here.