Jacksonville Leadership Backs Rick Scott's Ports Investments

With Gov. Rick Scott calling for more ports investment in JaxPort on Wednesday, leaders from the First Coast are giving the governors plans the thumbs-up. Last year, Scott backed improvements to Blount Island Terminal on the north side of the St. Johns River which will add 4,650 jobs to the First Coast and retain 12,000 current jobs.

On behalf of JaxPort and the families in this community, I thank Gov. Scott for realizing the potential that Jacksonville and the state of Florida have to be global leaders in trade and logistics, said Joe York, the chairman of the board of JaxPort, on Wednesday. Throughout his term, Gov. Scott has made critical investments into JaxPort supporting thousands of jobs for local families. The $1 billion commitment over 8 years he announced today is solid proof of his commitment to further improve Floridas economy and get more families and businesses back to work. I am proud to officially endorse Gov. Scott for re-election and I look forward to working with him in the future.

Rep. Lake Ray, R-Jacksonville, one of the leading ports advocates in the Legislature, also praised Scotts proposal.

Gov. Scott has remained true to his commitment by creating jobs and encouraging economic development through Floridas seaports and international trade, Ray said. Since taking office, Gov. Scott has ensured the historic progress of improvements to our states infrastructure by investing in and expediting port projects. Gov. Scotts direct influence is providing countless opportunities for Florida to become a leader in shipping and logistics throughout the United States and around the world. We risk losing our market share and job-creation opportunities without another 4 years of Gov. Scotts leadership.