This browser does not support the Video element.
PALMETTO, Fla. - The State of Florida is awarding $2 million for "key infrastructure improvements" at SeaPort Manatee, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Friday.
The governor's announcement of funding through the Florida Job Growth Fund came at a news conference in Palmetto on Friday morning.
The State of Florida awarded $2 million to the Manatee County Port Authority.
How will the money be used?
Dig deeper:
DeSantis says the Manatee County Port Authority will use the funds for multiple projects, including:
- Rebuilding and repaving South Dock St.
- Additional infrastructure improvements, including stormwater mitigation
The project is expected to create 300 jobs, DeSantis said.
Pictured: Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at a news conference in Palmetto.
Post-hurricane recovery
The backstory:
SeaPort Manatee suffered serious damage during the 2024 hurricane season, with damage from Hurricane Milton totaling nearly $200 million.
Last October, DeSantis announced $9.5 million in state aid to jumpstart the port's rebuilding efforts.
PREVIOUS: Gov. DeSantis announces aid to SeaPort to jolt rebuild after Hurricane Milton
SeaPort Manatee is a critical port in Florida’s supply chain, something DeSantis again emphasized during Friday's news conference, adding that it's critical to not only maintain the port but to grow it as the region's population continues to increase.
DeSantis giving aid to SeaPort Manatee after Hurricane Milton
What they're saying:
"This part of the state has grown significantly when you look at the Bradenton/Sarasota areas and beyond," DeSantis said. "So this is really key, I think, to the state's success going forward."
The Source: This story was written with information from the Governor's Office.
STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA:
- Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV
- Download FOX Local mobile app: Apple | Android
- Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines
- Download the SkyTower Radar app
- Sign up for FOX 13’s daily newsletter