Florida’s coastal economy relies heavily on marine construction projects that maintain navigation channels, expand ports, and protect shorelines. With more than 8,400 miles of coastline, the state continues to invest in dredging, seawall reconstruction, beach nourishment, and port infrastructure improvements. Below are several notable marine construction projects currently underway or recently announced across Florida.
Port Everglades Bulkhead Replacement Project
One of the most significant marine infrastructure upgrades in Florida is occurring at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The port has launched a $152 million bulkhead replacement project designed to modernize aging seawall infrastructure originally built in the mid-twentieth century.
The project involves replacing approximately 2,840 linear feet of bulkhead along several cargo berths. New reinforced concrete structures are being installed to support larger cargo vessels and improve structural resilience against hurricanes and sea-level rise. Construction began in 2025 and is expected to continue through 2026 as part of the port’s broader modernization strategy.
Port Everglades Channel Deepening Proposal
Another major marine construction initiative at Port Everglades involves a proposed deepening and widening of the port’s shipping channel. The estimated $1.35 billion project is intended to allow larger cargo vessels and tankers to access the port more efficiently.
The project has received significant attention due to its potential environmental impact on nearby coral reef systems along the southeastern Florida coast. As a result, environmental mitigation efforts—including coral relocation and habitat restoration—are being incorporated into the project planning process while federal environmental review continues.
Palm Beach Harbor Maintenance Dredging
Routine dredging remains critical to maintaining Florida’s marine transportation network. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began a maintenance dredging project at Palm Beach Harbor in West Palm Beach.
The project includes the removal of approximately 191,000 cubic yards of accumulated sediment from the harbor entrance channel and turning basin to maintain navigable depths for commercial and recreational vessels. Much of the dredged material will be reused for beach nourishment along nearby shorelines, illustrating the increasing use of beneficial sediment reuse in coastal engineering projects.
St. Joseph Peninsula Beach Nourishment Project
Coastal erosion remains a major concern in Florida’s Gulf Coast communities. The St. Joseph Peninsula Beach Nourishment Project in Port St. Joe in Florida is designed to stabilize vulnerable shoreline areas and protect coastal infrastructure.
The project will place approximately 830,000 cubic yards of sand along more than one mile of shoreline. It also includes the construction of eight submerged breakwaters intended to reduce wave energy and help retain sand along the beach. Construction activities are expected to extend through 2026.
Ocean Ridge Shoreline Renourishment Project
Another coastal protection project is underway in Ocean Ridge, located in Palm Beach County. This $9.4 million shoreline renourishment project involves placing new sand along the beach to rebuild areas affected by erosion and storm damage.
The project aims to strengthen coastal defenses while preserving recreational beaches that support tourism and local economic activity. Similar renourishment projects have become common throughout South Florida as communities seek to mitigate the impacts of storms and rising sea levels.
Port Canaveral Expansion Project
Major port infrastructure improvements are also underway at Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral. The port has introduced a long-term expansion plan valued at approximately $500 million.
The development program includes upgrades to cruise terminals, expansion of cargo berths, harbor deepening, and new seawall construction. These improvements are intended to accommodate the newest generation of cruise ships while increasing cargo handling capacity and improving overall port efficiency.
Marine construction activity across Florida reflects the state’s continued investment in coastal infrastructure, navigation safety, and shoreline protection. From port expansions and channel dredging to beach nourishment and seawall reconstruction, these projects demonstrate the critical role marine engineering plays in supporting Florida’s economy and protecting its coastal communities. As these projects move forward, environmental considerations and climate resilience will likely remain central factors in project design and regulatory approval.
References
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Jacksonville District
Engineering News-Record (ENR)
Dredging Today
Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council
Washington Post Climate & Environment Reporting