Jacksonville’s seaport is getting another new container crane and money to refurbish cranes already in use.
A $23 million check for the equipment was presented to port officials at a recent board of directors meeting.
“This funding shows our commitment to support Jacksonville’s vital role in the global supply chain,” state Sen. Clay Yarborough said. “Container cranes are one of the most critical pieces of infrastructure at a port and ensure the efficient flow of cargo that keep our local and state economies strong for businesses and residents alike.”
The crane addition and upgrades will increase the port’s cargo handling efficiency, allowing more cargo to move through the port. Larger cargo volumes increase the port’s ability to create jobs.
Jacksonville is Florida’s largest container port and one of the nation’s top vehicle-handling ports. Cargo activity through Jacksonville’s seaport supports 207,000 jobs and $33 billion in annual economic impact for the region and state.
The new funding will be used to purchase a container crane for the Talleyrand Marine Terminal and to improve existing cranes. The new crane, and two already purchased, are expected to arrive next year. All three new cranes were purchased from Germany-based Liebherr Crane Co., which has a manufacturing facility in Ireland.
Over the last two years, the Florida Legislature has awarded the port $53 million, which is a good investment by the state.
The city is blessed with easy access to port facilities from the ocean via the recently deepened St. Johns River, and quick connections to rail and highway, being literally at the southeast corner of the nation with the intersection of Interstate Highways 10 and 95.
