Florida invests $2M to upgrade SeaPort Manatee's storm-damaged infrastructure

A $2M state grant will rebuild roads and stormwater systems at SeaPort Manatee—reviving a hurricane-hit hub. Could new businesses soon follow the upgrades?

, and Administrator

2026 April 4 . 8:03 AM

1 min read

The image shows a poster of a new map of Florida from 1885. It is a detailed map with roads,... — The image shows a poster of a new map of Florida from 1885. It is a detailed map with roads, cities, and other geographical features clearly visible. The text on the poster provides additional information about the map, such as the names of cities, rivers, and mountains.

Florida invests $2M to upgrade SeaPort Manatee's storm-damaged infrastructure

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has awarded a $2 million grant to SeaPort Manatee for key infrastructure upgrades. The funding will rebuild roads and improve stormwater drainage at the busy port. Officials say the project will also create jobs and support future business growth. The grant comes from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, which targets public infrastructure and workforce training. Proposals are reviewed by FloridaCommerce before the governor makes the final decision. This particular funding aims to strengthen the port's resilience after recent hurricane damage.

SeaPort Manatee handles a wide range of goods, including imports like fruit juices, refrigerators, aluminium, and bananas. Exports from the port include machinery, wood pulp, metal, and paper scrap. The facility already has over 2 million square feet of warehouse space, with 207,000 square feet dedicated to refrigerated storage.

The improvements will focus on reconstructing roads such as South Dock Street and upgrading stormwater systems. These changes are expected to generate around 300 jobs while supporting an expansion for Honeywell. The upgrades may also attract new businesses, including a manufacturing plant, cold storage warehouse, and fuel terminal. The $2 million investment will enhance the port's infrastructure and help the region recover from storm impacts. While no new companies have yet been confirmed for the expanded facilities, the project aims to boost economic growth and create long-term opportunities. Work on the roads and drainage systems is set to begin in the coming months.