image: JAXPORT
JAXPORT has received a substantial $30 million funding allocation from the Florida Legislature. The funding, unveiled during the port’s monthly Board of Directors meeting, is earmarked for the acquisition of two state-of-the-art container cranes at the Blount Island Marine Terminal.
The financial commitment was orchestrated during the recent legislative session under the leadership of House Speaker Paul Renner and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo. Garnering strong support from the Duval Legislative Delegation, this initiative underscores the collaborative efforts of legislators such as State Representatives Jessica Baker, Dean Black, Kimberly Daniels, Wyman Duggan, Kiyan Michael, and Angie Nixon, as well as State Senators Tracie Davis and Clay Yarborough.
The imminent addition of these new cranes stands to revolutionize JAXPORT’s cargo-handling capabilities, ushering in heightened efficiencies that will facilitate the movement of a greater volume of cargo through the port. As the infrastructure for cargo-handling expands, JAXPORT solidifies its commitment to fulfilling the escalating cargo demands of businesses and consumers in Florida, further enhancing its standing as a pivotal global gateway in the Southeastern United States.
Speaker Paul Renner affirmed the vital importance of well-equipped ports in meeting the region’s burgeoning demands. He stressed, “This year’s budget allocates $30 million for the purchase of two new ship-to-shore cranes, replacing outdated equipment at the port. The acquisition of these cranes will increase the efficiency and capacity of JAXPORT, improving vessel turnaround and supply chain efficiency.” Renner’s sentiments echoed the sentiment that this investment ensures JAXPORT’s competitiveness, spurring economic growth, and securing lasting benefits for the state.
The collaborative spirit among legislators was celebrated by State Senator Clay Yarborough, who highlighted the concerted effort required to secure such advancements for the community. Recognizing JAXPORT’s pivotal role as an economic powerhouse, Yarborough underlined its contribution to job creation and forward-looking endeavors.
With the impending arrival of a storm, State Representative Kimberly Daniels emphasized the critical role that JAXPORT plays in maintaining supplies for the community. She noted, “We have a storm on the way, and we need supplies on our shelves.”
JAXPORT’s CEO, Eric Green, expressed gratitude for the commitment shown by Governor Ron DeSantis, Speaker Paul Renner, and the Florida Legislature. He recognized their investment as pivotal in bolstering the state’s ports, driving economic growth, generating jobs, and fortifying the supply chain’s resilience.
The secured funding marks a significant milestone, prompting JAXPORT to embark on the process of procuring the cutting-edge cranes. As the acquisition takes shape, anticipation builds for the transformative impact these advancements will have on JAXPORT’s operational landscape.
