Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) Council

The Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) Council is a partnership between Florida’s public seaports, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and the Florida Department of Commerce (FloridaCommerce). Created by the Florida Legislature (Florida Statute 311.09), the Council helps strengthen Florida’s economy by guiding investment and improvements in the state’s seaport system. The Council includes 18 members, made up of the directors (or their representatives) of Florida’s 16 public seaports, along with representatives from FDOT and FloridaCommerce.

Why the FSTED Council Matters

Florida’s seaports are vital to the state’s economy supporting 1.2M jobs, and contributing $196B in total economic value, representing 12.2% of the $1.6 trillion Florida GDP. The FSTED Council ensures that port development projects are strategic, coordinated, and beneficial to both local communities and the state as a whole. By working together, Florida’s seaports and state agencies can:

• Improve transportation connections between ports and highways, rail lines, and airports.
• Expand international trade, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and cruise operations.
• Support the growth of related industries such as logistics and aerospace.
• Strengthen the state’s supply chain and economic competitiveness.

Role of the FSTED Council

1. Plans for the Future - Each year, the Council updates the Five-Year Florida Seaport Mission Plan, which outlines goals, strategies, and priority projects for developing Florida’s ports and connecting transportation systems. This plan guides investment in port infrastructure and ensures alignment with the statewide Florida Transportation Plan.
The Mission Plan focuses on:

• Building and improving port facilities and connections to other transportation modes.
• Expanding capacity for cargo, fuel, and container operations.
• Increasing cruise passenger movements and port revenues.
• Enhancing trade and creating economic opportunities for Floridians.

2. Evaluates and Recommends Projects - The Council reviews proposed port projects to ensure they meet strict criteria - including economic benefit, readiness, and consistency with statewide plans. Only projects that provide clear value to Florida’s economy and transportation system are recommended for funding.

3. Oversees State Funding for Seaport Projects - Each year, FDOT sets aside $25 million for the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program. The FSTED Council approves eligible projects and submits funding recommendations to FDOT and FloridaCommerce. Projects that meet all requirements are included in FDOT’s annual work program for funding and implementation.

4. Supports Workforce Development - The Council also develops programs that prepare students for maritime and logistics careers. By partnering with schools and training organizations, FSTED helps build a skilled workforce for Florida’s growing maritime industry.

5. Tracks Seaport Performance - Every port represented on the Council submits regular reports to FDOT and FloridaCommerce. These reports include critical data points such as cargo capacity, fuel and storage capabilities, and any supply chain challenges - ensuring transparency and accountability in how Florida’s ports operate.

How the FSTED Council Operates

The Council meets at least twice a year to review projects, allocate funds, update plans, and discuss statewide port priorities. The FSTED Council has two committees which discuss and facilitate issues related to various maritime industry initiatives: