SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – Port Tampa Bay is continuing its upgrades of cruise ship operations, completing the installation of three new passenger boarding bridges, the port announced Wednesday.
The new bridges, at Cruise Terminals 2 and 6, are designed to accommodate a wider range of vessel configurations and boarding heights.
The bridges feature advanced stabilization and climate controls that protect passengers from the elements, the port said in a news release.
The port also has plans to build a fourth cruise terminal to support increasing passenger demand and the needs of cruise lines.
However, Port Tampa Bay cannot accommodate the newer, larger mega-sized cruise ships. Those massive vessels can’t reach the port because they are too tall to sail under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
A proposal earlier this year to build a mega-ship terminal west of the bridge, at the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve in Manatee County, was met with fierce local opposition.
Previous coverage:
Proposal unveiled to build port for mega-sized cruise ships in Manatee County
Manatee County cruise ship port proposal draws environmental concerns
Florida senator files amendment to block cruise port on Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve
Community reacts after DeSantis signs bill blocking cruise terminal in Manatee County
The plan has been scrapped for now, after a bill signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in March prevents dredging in the environmentally sensitive area, effectively blocking construction.
Port Tampa Bay serves than 1.6 million passengers every year while handling a wide range of cargo. The port also is a major center for shipbuilding and repair, supporting growth across the maritime, logistics, energy and tourism sectors.
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