Governor Rick Scott
today announced that the $1.9 million Port of Panama City Intermodal Distribution
Center project will receive a $900,000 grant from the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT). The Port Panama City Port Authority (PCPA) is prepared
to build access roads, lay-down area and 20 car rail intermodal cargo transfer
facility with adequate setback to support transfer of bulk products between
rail and truck.
Governor Scott said,
“I’m committed to ensuring that our transportation projects create more job
opportunities for Florida families - and this $900,000 investment for the Port
of Panama City will create more opportunities for families in the region.”
This $900,000
investment is among the first four grants for the Intermodal Logistics Center
(ILC) Infrastructure Support Program. This program provides an annual
allocation of $5,000,000 with a 50 percent matching fund requirement from
applicants.
ILCs play a
significant role in expanding our trade and logistics infrastructure by
enhancing the state’s seaports, airports, railroads, and supporting intermodal
highway connectors.
FDOT Secretary Ananth
Prasad said, “The Intermodal Logistics Center (ILC) Infrastructure Support
Program is an important part of the department’s commitment to support freight
growth in Florida. By enhancing our trade and logistics infrastructure we will
create job opportunities and strengthen Florida’s economy.”
Port of Panama City Executive Port Director Wayne Stubbs said,
“The bulk transfer facility is a key component of the Port’s Intermodal
Distribution Center. The ability to transfer dry and liquid bulk products
between rail and truck provides additional transportation efficiency for the
Port and for the region.”
FDOT selected four
projects to fund from a total of eight applications received in the FY
2012/2013 funding cycle. The other three selected projects include Keystone ILC
Terminal (Jacksonville), South Florida Logistics Center (Miami), and Port
Manatee Commerce Center (Palmetto). All four selected projects support and
create a total of 1,213 direct and indirect jobs
