Webster: $19 Million Coming to Port of Tampa Bay

Washington, DC – Today, Florida Congressman Daniel Wester, R-Clermont, announced that Port Tampa Bay will be awarded a $19,862,930.00 Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“Florida’s economy is dependent on our infrastructure systems moving goods and people efficiency and effectively,” said Rep. Webster. “Port Tampa Bay is a critical component of Florida’s transportation system and as it grows, it enriches Florida’s economy. The regional economic impacts of success of the port are significant and extend well beyond the immediate Tampa Bay region.  Time and again, I’ve seen Florida port expansion result in big-time returns on our investment. I was pleased to support this project and thank Secretary Chao for announcing her intent to award these funds."  

“Port Tampa Bay is pleased to have been awarded a $19.8 million U.S. Dept. of Transportation INFRA grant to expand our container terminals. Port Tampa Bay will use the grant to expedite construction of a new, 1,300-foot-long berth and a 30-acre container yard. This grant, combined with Port Tampa Bay and Florida’s investment, will provide long term-term benefits for the logistics supply chain as Florida’s population growth continues to grow. The upgraded facilities will benefit Florida importers and exporters, manufacturers and other producers, while reducing emissions, improving safety measures and providing additional economic benefits,” explained Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO.

 “This Administration is focused on infrastructure improvements and using federal funds to improve major highways, bridges, ports, and railroads across the country to better connect our communities, enhance safety, and support economic growth,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

The federal grant funding will be used for construction of Berth 214 and an adjacent yard, gantry crane rail extension, dredging along the dock to enable berthing of post-Panamax vessels, utility and stormwater improvements, and a new container gate. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $55 million and can now proceed from design and permitting to construction with the help of this Federal investment.

Congressman Webster is a senior member on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee with more than thirty-five years of transportation experience in Florida. 

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