In preparation for a surge in passenger numbers and the introduction of new cruise ships in 2024, Port Canaveral commissioners allocated US$67+ million for constructing two northside parking garages.
Unanimous approval has been granted for contracts totaling US$67.46 million. These contracts encompass the creation of an 8-level parking facility (capacity 1940 vehicles) adjacent to Cruise Terminals 5 and 6. Additionally, a 6-level garage (capacity 1081 vehicles) will be established near Cruise Terminal 10.
Notably, these parking garage projects are slated for an accelerated timeline, ensuring completion by late 2024. This timeline aligns with the forthcoming deployment of new cruise ships scheduled to operate from Port Canaveral.
John Murray (Port Canaveral's CEO) conveyed the forthcoming surge in activity at the cruise port, projecting the presence of 16 or 17 ships for winter 2024-2025 - a significant increase from the 13% in the previous winter.
The lineup includes vessels from major cruise brands not previously operated from Port Canaveral - Caribbean Princess (by Princess Cruises) commences homeporting in November 2024, and Celebrity Equinox (by Celebrity Cruises) commencing homeporting in December 2024.
Ivey's Construction Inc (headquartered in Merritt Island) has been awarded the contract for orchestrating the parking garage project, building upon their involvement in similar projects for Port Canaveral in recent years.
The scope of the endeavor encompasses cruise terminals hosting several prominent cruise lines, including Marella UK, NCL-Norwegian, RCI-Royal Caribbean at Terminal 5; CCL-Carnival, Princess at Terminal 6; and MSC, NCL at Terminal 10.
The undertaking to construct these cruise garages constitutes the most substantial allocation within Port Canaveral's $175.67 million capital projects budget for the upcoming 2023-2024 fiscal year. This budget allocates $150.84 million from port revenues, complemented by $22.90 million from state grants and $1.93 million from federal grants.
These new northside garages will occupy spaces currently utilized as surface parking lots, primarily catering to port and cruise line staff. The port intends to establish a shuttle service between the north and south sides of the port, facilitating movement for employees whose usual parking facilities will be affected by the ongoing construction efforts.