Port Everglades to Receive $16.5M in State Funds

The Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) Council approved $16.5 million in allocations to Port Everglades to lengthen a cruise berth and to extend the port’s Southport Turning Notch to allow for more cargo berths.

These allocations, which were 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 this next legislative session.

“Both projects will create construction jobs in the short term and support permanent jobs once completed,” said Port Everglades Chief Executive & Port 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 $1.85 million to lengthen Slip 2, which includes Berth 4 and is used for cruise ships, by 250 feet westward to accommodate today’s larger cruise ships. Once completed in September 2016, Slip 2 will be 1,150 feet long and 42 feet deep. The Broward County Commission awarded planning and design to Bermello Ajamil & Partner, Inc. on October 1, 2013.

In addition to the Slip 2 lengthening, the corresponding Cruise Terminal 4 is being updated as part of an estimated $13.4 million renovation project. This will be the first building Port Everglades will apply for LEED certification.

Groundbreaking for the Cruise Terminal 4 renovation is slated for May 2014, with completion expected before the following cruise season in fall of 2014.

FSTED allocated $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 900-2,400 feet, which will allow for up to five new cargo berths.