Plans to develop a new cruise port in West Central Florida are underway as larger cruise ships can no longer pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge due to height restrictions. <\/p>\n
SSA Marine and Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC have proposed a cruise port adjacent to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Manatee County, Florida, according to the project\u2019s website<\/a>. <\/p>\n \u201cOur vision is rooted in a simple idea: enhancing West Central Florida\u2019s position in an evolving cruise industry, while respecting the surrounding environment, creating long-term economic opportunities for the local community, and supporting regional tourism,\u201d said SSA Marine and Slip Knott in a statement.<\/p>\n The project is expected to take about three to five years following the planning stages, reported<\/a> Cruise Industry News.<\/p>\n It is estimated that labor earnings in the state and region will increase by approximately $1.6 billion, while the construction investment will create more than 31,000 jobs, according to the developers.<\/p>\n SSA Marine has privately invested in the development. The company also recently acquired the 710-acre Rattlesnake Key through its subsidiary, the Rattlesnake Key Preservation Company, according to the website.<\/p>\n \u201cWe recognize Rattlesnake Key is a treasured local community asset that has long been the subject of concern regarding potential future commercial development. Our intent in purchasing the property is to remove any possibility of private commercialization and ensure its conservation,\u201d said the developers.<\/p>\n