Everglades awarded state funds to add cargo berths

The funding, which was approved under two different state funding sources, will become part of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) 2014/15 Work Program that comes before the Florida Legislature for approval during the next legislative session.

“Both projects will create construction jobs in the short term and support permanent jobs once completed,” said the port’s chief executive and director Steven Cernak. “Florida’s investment in seaports and other infrastructure demonstrates a commitment to making our state a global leader in international trade.”

FSTED allocated US$14.7 million under the new Strategic Port Investment Initiative within FDOT for Port Everglades’ Southport Turning Notch Extension. This project will lengthen the existing deepwater turn-around area for cargo ships from 900 feet to 2,400 feet, which will allow for up to five new cargo berths.