Port of Palm Beach Team Attends AAPA Annual Conference in Quebec City

The Port of Palm Beach team proudly represented the Port at the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) Annual Conference in Quebec City, Canada. Executive Director Michael Meekins, Port Commissioner Vice Chair Dr. Deandre Poole, and Public Information Officer Yaremi Farinas joined industry leaders from across the Americas to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships that drive the seaport industry forward.

Throughout the week, the group participated in sessions on finance and business development, infrastructure modernization, environmental stewardship, cybersecurity, supply chain and logistics, energy resilience, and workforce development, all key topics shaping the future of ports.

Public Information Officer Yaremi Farinas was also invited to speak on a panel titled “Investing in Our Future Workforce,” where she highlighted the Port’s award-winning internship program and its impact on preparing the next generation of maritime professionals. 

The Port of Palm Beach's Summer Internship Program was recently featured in AAPA’s Seaports Magazine, recognizing it as a model for workforce development across the industry.

 CLICK HERE TO READ THE ARTICLE

Big Savings for Tenants

Port Infrastructure Development Program Set for Completion by End of the Year

Construction Progress

• Main Gate has four open lanes (two ingress/two egress).
• The main gate commissioning was completed in October.
• Radiation Portal Monitors for the main entrance will be installed by November 6th. The old RPM's will be removed later. 

The PIDP is set to enhance the Port's infrastructure and boost the Port's operational efficiency. 

Key Enhancements:

• Revamped Main Port Gate: The redesign of the main port gate off MLK Blvd. will introduce additional lanes, streamlining truck entry and improving cargo transport efficiency within the Port.
• Advanced Truck Processing System: A new system will cut incoming container truck wait times by 50%, significantly reducing emissions and enhancing overall port operations.
• Expanded Freight Rail Capacity: The project will boost annual freight rail capacity by 116%, increasing it from 44,000 to nearly 100,000 TEUs. The addition of new rail tracks will provide increased rail car storage within the port.

Cruise Terminal Canopy Project

The purpose of this project is to provide cruise passengers with refuge from the Florida weather as they travel between their car and the terminal.

1. West side of project:                                                                     Canopy structure has been completed                                           Curb has been excavated                                                               Curb will be formed and poured the week of October 13th       Sidewalk will be poured the week of October 20th
2. East side of project:                                                                          Relocate fire hydrant the week of October 13th                       Starting to install canopy posts the week of October 20th
3.  Project expected to be complete by the end of November                                                                      

Elevator Modernization

The purpose of this project is to update and refresh the elevators that serve the cruise terminal and Administration Offices.

• One of the two elevators serving the cruise terminal has been completed and is in service.
• Currently, one of the main lobby elevators is being rehabilitated. It should be completed in early November. 
• The next elevator to be modernized will be No.5 (located in the main lobby), starting when the other lobby elevator is completed in November. Elevator No.5 is expected to be back service in February 2026.

Repairs near the Sugar Gantry

The asphalt is failing due to subgrade compaction issues. The Port is in the process of bidding for repair and replacement work. The Board of Commissioners will vote on the Intent to Bid in the November meeting. 

Emergency Repairs on Dock Near Slip 1

Right now crews are working on emergency repairs of fire hydrants located on the dock on the southside of Slip 1. This will only impact Tropical Shipping, as the repairs are taking place in the container yard.

 Cargo Tonnage Reports

(October 2024 to August 2025)

                                                           Year-to-Date    Prior Year-to-Date

TEUS                                      250,721         243,546                         

Rail Cars                                12,127             12,677

Raw Sugar                             576,910          563,216

Cement                                  300,170          155,223

Liquid Asphalt                       116,587         119,028

Molasses                                198,542         205,010

Recyclable Steel                    45,404           38,070

Break-bulk                              158,690         135,079

Port of Palm Beach Expands Connections at Breakbulk Americas

Florida Ports Council News

On October 15, 2025, The Florida Ports Council (FPC), which has long served as the unifying voice and strategic advocate for Florida’s 16 deepwater seaports, announced an important transition as the organization evolves to meet the changing demands of global commerce and maritime logistics.

For decades, the Florida Ports Council has provided exceptional leadership, advocacy, and coordination to ensure Florida’s seaports remain competitive, secure, and vital to the state’s economy. Through strong partnerships with public and private stakeholders, FPC has played a pivotal role in driving investments, shaping policy, and elevating the profile of Florida ports on both national and international stages.

As Florida’s ports continue to expand their influence in global trade and adapt to shifting supply chain dynamics, the time has come for a strategic transformation. This transition marks the next chapter in our collective journey, one that builds on the Council’s legacy while aligning with the complex demands of today’s interconnected maritime economy.

The new organization will carry forward the commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation that has defined the Florida Ports Council, while embracing fresh opportunities to support sustainable growth, technological advancement, and global connectivity across Florida’s port network.

"We are proud of the Florida Ports Council’s remarkable history of service," said Michael Meekins, Chairman of the Florida Ports Council. "As our seaports evolve, so too must the structure that supports them. This transition is not an end, but a bold new beginning, one that ensures Florida remains a leader in maritime commerce for generations to come."

Further details about the organization’s new leadership structure will be shared in the coming weeks.

Port of Palm Beach Public Information Officer Shares Insight at Hispanic Leadership Summit

The Hispanic Leadership Summit, spearheaded by County Commissioner Joel Flores and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, was a tremendous success, bringing together community leaders, business professionals, and advocates from across Palm Beach County to promote collaboration, celebrate diversity, and highlight the invaluable contributions of the Hispanic community.

Among the distinguished speakers was Port of Palm Beach Public Information Officer Yaremi Farinas, who served as a panelist on the Economic Impact Panel. Yaremi joined other local leaders to discuss the importance of inclusive economic development, workforce opportunities, and the role public institutions play in supporting a thriving, equitable community.

The Port of Palm Beach is a proud member of the chamber. We are thankful to have been represented in such an important conversation that aligns with our mission to foster economic growth and community engagement. 

Social Media Buzz

Margaritaville at Sea's Special Offers

Job Opportunities

Palm Beach Parking

Tropical Shipping

Credit Representative

Marine Fabricator Welder

Port Mechanic

Marine Mechanic

Marine Quality Manager

Accounts Payable Supervisor

Junior Accountant

Contact Human Resources to set up your interview at apernsteiner@tropical.com or view openings here.

CEMEX

Driver Semi

Operator Terminal

Driver Ready Mix

Sales & Use Tax Accountant

SSI Petroleum

Transport Fuel Drivers- Riviera Beach and Fort Lauderdale

For more information, please contact SSI's Human Resources Manager Vivian Prescott by phone at 863-508-1406 or email vprescott@ssipetro.com.

            

About SSI Petroleum 

Heavy Lift Services/ Gulfstream Line

Checker

                                               Forklift Operator                                                                                                                                                                               Truck Driver

Fore more information, please contact Vice President Tina Dias at tina@gulfstreamline.com or President Glen Dias at glen@gulfstreamline.com. 

Ozinga

CDL Ready Mix Driver

CDL Bulk Driver

Upcoming Commission Meetings

View agendas and minutes 

October Workiversaries for Port Employees

Congratulations to the following employees who are celebrating a workiversary:

Locomotive Engineer and Facilities Worker David Pierce- October 9 (13 years)

Security Officer Carlos Kamaka- October 11 (4 years)

Port Duty Officer Jeff Baker October 15 (24 years)

Security Officer Michael Bennett- October 15 (18 years)

Facilities Worker Eklund Fredericks- October 21 (12 years)

Security Sergeant Sean Hunter- October 25 (21 years)

Assistant Controller Bruce Cuningham- October 28 (5 years)

Port Executive Director Michael Meekins and Director of Operations & Security Rick Placeres proudly presented Security Officer Kuumba Payne with an award honoring her two decades of dedicated service to the Port of Palm Beach.

Kuumba’s loyalty has been an incredible asset to our team and community.

Please join us in congratulating her on this milestone achievement!

Meet Our New Employees

Port of Palm Beach Pet Photo Contest

In September, the Port's Social Committee held a "Pet Photo Contest" for Port staff. 

Here's a look at the furry friends that won the contest. 

Treat Your Team to a Thanksgiving Pie