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The market forecasts described in Chapter 3 serve as the basis for planning for growth and related Port-wide improvements and/or
maintenance. In addition to these forecasts of the Port's existing commodity base,
it is anticipated that the Port will benefit from new business prospects resulting
from eventual trade with Cuba, the opening of the new Panama Canal locks, expanded
perishables trade with Mexico, the growing importance of refined petroleum products
moving through the Port, ongoing trade initiatives with Central and South America
(both east and west coasts), above-average regional economic growth in construction
and housing, the Port's integrated transportation infrastructure with interstate highways,
and its direct access to a Class 1 railway (CSXT). These new business prospects are
also included in the planning analysis for expanded Port growth and associated improvements.
Since its inception, Port Manatee has continued to maintain its role as a global gateway
for the movement of waterborne commerce. The Port's diverse existing shipping trade
lanes are depicted in Figure 4.2.
Figure 4.2
PORT MANATEE SHIPPING TRADE LANES
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