Florida ports in the limelight

As the Caribbean Basin gains more attention as a logistical hub, Florida’s ports will become key business partners.

It is worth noting that Florida Governor Rick Scott will serve as the keynote speaker on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at the American Association of Port Authority’s (AAPA) 102nd Annual Convention and Expo in Orlando, Fla., hosted by the Canaveral Port Authority.

As noted in LM, Florida’s ports have been investing in both infrastructure and value-added services.

Not surprisingly, Scott will discuss the importance of investing in ports and port-related infrastructure during a luncheon presentation at the AAPA convention.

The governor is a strong proponent for ports, particularly Florida’s 15 deepwater ocean cargo gateways.  In his 2013 State of the State address in March, he emphasized the need for strategic infrastructure investments to grow Florida’s economy, including recommending $288 million in seaport improvements this year.

In June, Gov. Scott signed legislation for two bills that facilitate economic development opportunities by prioritizing Florida’s investment in vital transportation projects, including improvements to the state’s deepwater ports.  The legislation positions the Florida Department of Transportation to build an interconnected, efficient transportation system while reducing bureaucracy and streamlining decision making to allow faster project delivery for infrastructure improvements that employ creative financing alternatives, offer transportation choices and develop future transportation corridors. 

Also in June, the governor received Florida’s International Achievement Award from the World Trade Center Miami for his outstanding leadership and performance in enhancing two-way trade. The award is given to executives and corporations that have worked to advance Miami and Florida’s position as the “Trade and Logistics Capital of the Americas.”