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By: MIASF Staff

Date posted: Mar 31, 2022 Thu

Redistricting is the hot topic this month. Based on the 2020 Census, boundaries are being adjusted to account for changes in population and demographics. Basically, it seems to have become a chess game between political parties. A special session has been called to address the federal districts, while the state districts have already been set. Locally, some cities, including Fort Lauderdale, are weighing the different recommended options. How this will all work out is anyone’s guess, but I encourage you to know who your representatives are when the boundaries have been solidified, and when given the opportunity, to meet them be sure to tell them you are in their district, and you work in the marine industry.

New River Crossing continues to be a topic of discussion as the Broward County Commission reviews the FDOT analysis of the alternatives on the table. Between a bridge or tunnel, the solution decided on must not impede access to our boatyards up the New River. Should navigation of the river become too challenging, the vessels could consider different service providers. An important fact to remember is a single vessel represents an annual economic impact of more than $500,000 and the mobility of the yachting community must always be factored into the decision process. The commissioners also need to take into consideration the cost per passenger ratio as this is factored into federal funding scenarios. Commuter rail will transport Florida into the future (literally), and how we get there is with a strongly supported locally preferred alternative.

The exciting news is Captain of the Port Jo-Ann Burdian will be promoted to Rear Admiral on the 29th of April and leave Sector Miami for her next assignment in Washington DC. She was a fair and thoughtful leader, and always had the importance of our industry at the forefront of her decision-making as we worked through bridge operation regulations. We wish her only good things as she ascends the career ladder.