Port of Palm Beach Strengthens Partnership with Cement Company to Support Regional Construction Growth

To meet the region’s growing demand for construction materials, the Port of Palm Beach is expanding its bulk cement operations through a new long-term contract with current Port tenant, Ozinga Cement, Inc.

Under the new agreement, Ozinga Cement will take over the Port’s eastern silo parcel January 1, 2029 or earlier depending on parcel availability. The new agreement is expected to generate approximately $19.6 million in revenue over its initial 10-year term.

This expansion builds upon Ozinga’s successful operations, which began in 2023.

“Ozinga has proven to be a valued partner whose investment and operational performance have helped drive the rapid growth of our cement imports,” said Port Executive Director Michael Meekins. “This agreement is an instrumental part in transforming the Port from being primarily an export port, to becoming a more balanced import and export port. Combined with other agreements, the Port’s import activity is projected to grow from 20% today to 40% by import by 2031."

Cement imports at the Port of Palm Beach have grown by more than 650% over the past three years, from approximately 40,000 short tons to more than 300,000 short tons, making it one of the fastest-growing commodities handled at the Port.

“We’re pleased to continue our partnership with the Port of Palm Beach and expand our capacity and capability to meet the region’s growing needs,” said Herb Moeckel, vice president and general manager of Ozinga Cement. “This collaboration not only supports vital infrastructure projects but also reflects our shared commitment to strengthening local communities.”

Since beginning operations in 2023, Ozinga has received 14 cement shipments totaling more than 385,000 short tons, generating over $2.2 million in revenue for the Port.

American Pioneer Makes First Visit to Port of Palm Beach

A new beauty in port! 

One of American Cruise Lines newest ships, the American Pioneer, made a port call at the Port of Palm Beach on Friday, November 7. This was the ship's maiden voyage.  

This newly built luxury ship welcomed just 130 guests, offering an intimate cruising experience as travelers explore the natural charm of Palm Beach County. 

The American Patriot also made a stop at the Port on November 15. Both cruises sailed out of Tampa with stops in both Florida's west and east coasts. 

Port Infrastructure Development Program Substantially Complete

Construction Progress

• Main Gate has four open lanes (two ingress/two egress)
• Radiation Portal Monitors for the main entrance have been installed
•  The contractor is working on punch list items.

The PIDP enhanced 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. The west ½ of the canopy is open to the public for use. 
2. The temporary pedestrian bypass diversion will be removed.
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.

• Two elevator cars are expected to be put back into operation in November (one in the Cruise Terminal and the other in the MOC Lobby).  
• The next elevator in the MOC Lobby will go out of service for about 12 weeks starting in November.

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. Construction will be scheduled following the board's approval. 

Port of Palm Beach to Begin Improvements at Southgate Building

The Port of Palm Beach is currently making a series of improvements at the Southgate Building, located at 301. The first phase of work includes repainting one of the building’s stairwells.

During this period, signage will be posted to guide tenants to use the alternate stairwell. As work progresses, directional signage will be updated accordingly to ensure smooth access and minimal disruption.

The Port anticipates little to no impact on daily operations and will provide updates as additional improvement phases are scheduled.

For questions or concerns, tenants are encouraged to contact Tacaria Anderson Jones, Director of Tenant Relations, at (561) 383-4136, or Port Engineer Gary Dunmyer at (561) 383-4133.

As part of our ongoing initiative to keep our Port clean and beautiful, we’re excited to announce the addition of three new hopper trash bins! 

These bins will be conveniently located at Berths 11, 14, and 17 and will be emptied as needed. 

Please note, these bins are designated for general litter and debris only. 

Do not dispose of operational waste, hazardous materials, or international trash in these containers. 

We ask that you continue to follow your standard trash removal procedures for those items. 

Please, if possible, post the flyer in your office and share it with your contractors who do not frequent the port. 

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us maintain a clean and safe Port environment!

 Cargo Tonnage Reports

(October 2024 to September 2025)

                                                           Year-to-Date    Prior Year-to-Date

TEUS                                      274,562         265,245                         

Rail Cars                                13,178             13,800

Raw Sugar                             595,910          610,816

Cement                                  344,333          203,643

Liquid Asphalt                       128,150         138,046

Molasses                                218,826         224,852

Recyclable Steel                    45,404           38,070

Break-bulk                              182,668         153,580

Port of Palm Beach Partners with Local University to Support Future Workforce

On November 6, Public Information Officer Yaremi Farinas and Human Resources Manager Raquel Rivera represented the Port of Palm Beach at Florida Atlantic University’s Government and Nonprofit Internship Fair. The university invited the Port to participate in this new initiative, which will fund one to two student interns for the Spring 2026 semester. This partnership provides students with valuable hands-on experience while supporting the Port’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and community engagement.

Port Wraps Up Annual Seafarers Care Package Drive

On November 7, the Port of Palm Beach concluded its annual Seafarers’ Care Package Drive. Thanks to the generosity of Port employees, tenants (Ozinga & PSA), and community partners (Palm Beach Harbor Pilots), all donations were delivered to the Port of Palm Beach Seafarers’ Center in support of their Christmas at Sea initiative. These care packages will bring comfort and holiday cheer to seafarers spending the season away from home.

Port's Annual Toy Drive to Bring Joy Back to Children in Azure Estates in Riviera Beach

The Port of Palm Beach is proud to announce the kickoff of its annual holiday toy drive, benefiting the children of Azure Estates. Port staff is partnering closely with neighborhood representatives to compile a wish list that reflects the needs and interests of children of all ages. There are 308 students living in the community right now. 

The toy drive will run from December 1 through December 15, giving community members, tenants, and Port employees the opportunity to spread holiday cheer to local families.

Additional details will be shared soon. The Port encourages everyone to stay tuned and join in making the season brighter for the children of Azure Estates.

Port Leaders Attend Manatee Lagoon’s “Soirée for Seagrass” to Support Vital Marine Habitats

Port of Palm Beach Board Chair Blair Ciklin and Vice Chair Dr. Deandre Poole attended this year’s Soirée for Seagrass at Manatee Lagoon on November 14. The annual fundraiser raised critical funds and awareness to protect South Florida’s seagrass ecosystems.

Guests learned about ongoing conservation efforts and how community engagement plays a key role in preserving these precious ecosystems for future generations.

Port tenants Glen and Tina Dias of Heavy Lift Services and Gulfstream Line also joined the event, representing the port community’s continued commitment to environmental stewardship.

Social Media Buzz

Margaritaville at Sea's Special Offers

Job Opportunities

Tropical Shipping

Senior Cargo Handling Specialist

Documentation Coordinator

Junior Accountant

Accountant Representative

Cybersecurity Analyst

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

CEMEX

Operator Terminal

Driver Ready Mix

Manager Logistics II

SSI Petroleum

CDL Transport Drivers- Palm Beach and Broward Counties

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                                                                                                                                                                             

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 

The Port of Palm Beach is proud to announce the promotion of Maria Matthews to Staff Accountant, who has been in the accounting field for more than 24 years.

Maria has been a valued member of the Port team since 2008, contributing her expertise in both accounts receivable and accounts payable. Most recently, she served as the Accounts Payable Specialist, where she consistently demonstrated initiative, dedication, and a strong desire to learn and grow within the organization.

Maria’s commitment to professional development is evident through her numerous certifications, including Accredited Payables Manager, Accredited Procure-to-Pay Manager, Certified Payment Reporting Specialist, and State Notary. Maria holds an associate’s degree in accounting from Post University in Massachusetts.  

The Port of Palm Beach takes great pride in fostering an environment that supports employee growth and advancement.

Please join us in congratulating Maria on this well-deserved promotion! 

November Workiversaries for Port Employees

Congratulations to the following employees who are celebrating a workiversary:

Port Engineer Gary Dunmyer- November 4 (1 year)

Security Sergeant Evins Daniel- November 8 (19 years)

Deputy Director Beatrice Greffin- November 8 (15 years)

Security Sergeant Jeff Farr- November 9 (19 years)

Staff Accountant Maria Matthews- November 10 (17 years)

Security Officer Lenworth Palmer- November 22 (8 years)

Assistant Director of Operations Keith Leggett- November 28

(14 years)

Our administrative offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving.
 
We will resume regular business hours Monday, December 1, 2025, at 8:30 AM.
 
For immediate assistance call the Main Security Gate at 561-383-4144.

Learning in Action

A group of homeschool students enjoyed an educational tour of the Port of Palm Beach, where they learned how cargo moves in and out of the port, discovered the types of goods imported and exported, and saw firsthand how port operations support our local and global economy. The tour offered a unique behind-the-scenes look at one of South Florida’s busiest seaports.