Rep. Mike Haridopolos Delivers $20M Federal Grant to Canaveral Port Authority
Port Canaveral, FL — Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Haridopolos (FL-08) held a pressconference at Port Canaveral to announce the U.S. Department of Transportation’s awarding of a $20.21 million Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) grant to the Canaveral Port Authority to expand capacity at two of the Port’s busiest cargo berths.
The PIDP grant will support a $37.43 million Port project to upgrade North Cargo Berths 1 and 2, which serve tanker vessels carrying refined petroleum products critical to supplying Central Florida region’s transportation system.
“Port Canaveral is a cornerstone of our local economy and a critical gateway for commerce, national security, and job creation here on Florida’s Space Coast,” said Congressman Mike Haridopolos. “This $20 million investment will strengthen infrastructure that fuels our airports, supports our businesses, powers our communities, and keeps commerce moving across Florida every single day. When Hurricane Milton tested our state’s resilience, Port Canaveral stepped up and delivered. This project ensures the Port can continue meeting the demands of our growing state for decades to come while reinforcing Florida’s leadership in trade, tourism, and transportation.”
“Port Canaveral truly appreciates the support of Representative Haridopolos who was instrumental in securing this essential funding,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “This investment further strengthens our role as an economic engine for Central Florida and provides consumers and businesses with efficient, cost-effective and reliable access to critical fuel products.”
"VTTI welcomes this important investment in Port Canaveral’s infrastructure, which strengthens the long-term reliability and resiliency of critical energy logistics,” said David Smith, General Manager of VTTI Seaport Canaveral. “The refurbishment of the cargo berths we utilize helps ensure safe, efficient operations for decades to come, supporting supply of energy products to Central Florida and the broader region."
Background:
Port Canaveral is home to Florida’s premier seaport with diverse business operations that include cruise, cargo, recreation, and real estate, while serving as a supporting partner for commercial fishing and aerospace enterprises. The world’s busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral, hosts nearly 9 million cruise guest movements and handles over 6.1 million tons of cargo annually, including bulk, break-bulk, project, heavy lift, and containerized.