Port of Tampa's petroleum facility to get $45 million expansion

TAMPA - While at the Governor's Luncheon at the Florida State Fair on Thursday, Gov. Rick Scott announced plans to enlarge and update the existing Port of Tampa petroleum facility.

Calling it a partnership between the Port of Tampa and the State of Florida, the governor directed the Florida Department of Transportation to invest $22.5 million in the new facility.

The $45-million expansion project will provide two new berths and rehabilitate the terminal infrastructure.  The expansion will allow the port to handle up to 5 million additional tons of petroleum products per year.

The project will create more than 641 construction jobs, according to port estimates, and more than 8,000 direct and indirect jobs over the next 30 years.

According to a statement from the state, the existing petroleum unloading facilities are 45 years old and in need of updating.  Doing so will ensure the port will continue to meet the region’s need for gasoline, diesel and jet fuels.

"By prioritizing vital transportation projects, we can make Florida a better place for businesses to grow and expand and help get Floridians back to work," said Scott. "This project will enhance Florida’s infrastructure and get our state ready for a new generation of international trade with the Caribbean, South America and beyond."