Governor Rick Scott: Brookings Institute Proclaims Florida as Innovator to Watch
CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 717-9282
media@eog.myflorida.com
Governor Rick Scott: Brookings Institute Proclaims Florida as Innovator to Watch
TALLAHASSEE—The Brookings-Rockefeller Project on State and Metropolitan Innovation recently identified the top 10 states and metropolitan areas that took action in 2012 to make a meaningful economic impact in the United States for 2013 and beyond. Florida was identified as an innovator because of Governor Scott’s focus on freight and port infrastructure investment. The Port of Miami was specifically identified for their improvements to increase freight capacity and their dredging project to accommodate larger ships from the expansion of the Panama Canal.
Governor Rick Scott said, “One of the ways we are creating an environment where Florida’s private sector can grow is by making serious investments in our state’s port system. I applaud the Brookings Institution for recognizing the value of these investments and for understanding that Florida is the gateway to Central and Latin America. We are positioning ourselves to capitalize on the increased trade from the expansion of the Panama Canal and ready for the increased trade it will bring to our state. Florida’s 15 seaports currently support 550,000 jobs for Florida families and we will continue to make investments so we can create opportunities for Florida’s families.
Bill Johnson, chairman of the Florida Ports Council said, “Much of the credit for Florida’s innovation goes to Governor Scott and his support for projects such as PortMiami’s Deep Dredge. With the Governor and state Legislature’s continued focus and investment in Florida’s ports, we will be ready for the expansion of the Panama Canal and will ensure Florida will be a global hub for business.”
Click here to view the Brookings Institution’s assessment of Florida – Smarter Freight Infrastructure Investments with Statewide Approach.
###
Tweet
