Growing Opposition to Proposed Cruise Port Terminal in Terra Ceia
A significant movement is emerging against the proposed cruise port terminal in Terra Ceia, located just south of the Sunshine Skyway. Approximately 12,000 individuals have signed a petition opposing the project, citing concerns over its potential impact on the area’s delicate ecosystem. The terminal, proposed by SSA Marine, aims to accommodate larger cruise ships that cannot navigate under the Sunshine Skyway bridge to reach Port Tampa Bay or Seaport Manatee. However, local fishers and environmental advocates argue that the construction would threaten the ecological balance of the region, particularly around Paradise Island and Rattlesnake Key.
Corey McKeever, a local boat repair business owner, spearheaded the petition against the terminal. He warns that the project would necessitate dredging a channel at least 50 feet deep, which would destroy vital seagrass habitats. “There’s not much seagrass left in Tampa Bay. That is one of the only places it’s still left,” McKeever stated. He expressed concerns that dredging would release toxins from past oil spills and other contaminants, further jeopardizing the environment. McKeever believes that the terminal would not only harm the ecosystem but also threaten his livelihood and the fishing industry in the area.
Economic Implications and Community Response
McKeever fears that the terminal’s construction would severely impact his business, potentially leading to its closure. He estimates that the dredging process could reduce his business by at least 50%. “I’m going to either go out of business because of them or I’m going to die trying,” he said, emphasizing the dire consequences for local fishers and the community. He believes that if the water quality deteriorates, many boat owners may abandon their vessels for cruise options, further diminishing local fishing activities.
SSA Marine claims that the project would generate over 31,000 jobs statewide and regionally during the construction phase, along with an estimated $1.6 billion boost in labor earnings. The company argues that cruise operations would also support jobs in hospitality, transportation, logistics, and maritime services. Despite these economic promises, the local community remains skeptical, prioritizing environmental preservation over potential economic benefits.
A rally opposing the cruise port terminal is scheduled for 11 a.m. on February 14 at Seabreeze Park, located at 55 Horseshoe Loop in Terra Ceia. Community members are encouraged to attend and voice their concerns about the project’s environmental impact and its implications for local businesses and the ecosystem. As the debate continues, the future of the proposed terminal remains uncertain, with strong opposition from local residents and environmental advocates.
