New bulkhead, slips and uplands facility ensures dedicated access for commercial fishing trade

The Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) Board of Commissioners today approved the next step in the development of a new working waterfront at Port Canaveral to support the needs of the local commercial fishing community, authorizing the selection of Titusville, Fla.-based Rush Construction, Inc., for uplands improvements following a previously announced 16-slip commercial fishing dock to be constructed by Rush Marine, LLC.

“Port Canaveral began as a commercial fishing port in 1953, and our decades-long legacy with this industry continues to this day,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to support this important resource that delivers vital economic benefits to communities locally and nationally.”

The new working waterfront facility will ensure a reliable supply of locally caught seafood for on-port processers who account for approximately four million pounds of fresh fish, processed and shipped nationwide annually.

Currently in the design phase the commercial waterfront development project represents a total investment of $5.2 million by the Port. The project will include 125 feet of dedicated bulkhead space with a 16-slip dock, uplands improvements including a large open-air pavilion with fish cleaning stations, office and restrooms buildings, and truck and trailer parking and storage facilities. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2027.

Creating the new dedicated working waterfront aligns with the Port’s intent to revitalize the southwest waterfront to make way for the future development of what will become the Port’s Cruise Terminal 4.

In other Board action today, Commissioners approved the selection of Moffatt & Nichol, Inc. to provide engineering design and permitting services for a future consolidated marina district that will provide options for recreational boating enthusiasts.

“Recreational marinas are a valued resource for our Port community and getting this redevelopment project right is one of our highest priorities,” Murray said. “Our goal is to work thoughtfully and diligently to create a modern marina facility that our community will be proud of.”

The new marina district is envisioned as a modern recreational boating facility designed to serve recreational boaters while preserving public access to the Port’s Rodney Ketcham Park boat ramps. Design plans are underway to revamp the launch facilities to accommodate larger boats.