FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 8, 2004
CONTACT: Jacob Dipietre, (850) 488-5394

Governor Bush Commends Progress at Port of Tampa

~More than 110 million gallons of fuel at Florida’s ports, 175 million gallons on its way~

TAMPA – Governor Jeb Bush today visited the Port of Tampa which is a major hub for Florida’s efforts to deliver fuel to emergency workers, retailers and communities impacted by Hurricane Frances. Florida’s three major ports are now open, receiving ships and filling tanker trucks to carry fuel to gas stations in metropolitan areas and along transportation corridors.

“Dramatic progress at Florida’s ports is ensuring an adequate fuel supply for recovery workers and affected communities,” said Governor Bush. “Through thoughtful coordinated action, fuel is being distributed across the state to our recovery teams and impacted communities quickly.”

By Tuesday evening, more than 110 million gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel was at Florida’s ports for distribution throughout the state by more than 1,000 trucks. Over the next week, 18 ships will arrive dockside to deliver an additional 177 million gallons of fuel to the Sunshine State.

Operating under a seven-day Executive Order from Governor Bush, State and federal officials are coordinating with fuel companies to replenish supplies as millions of Floridians return to their homes and businesses after Hurricane Frances.

At the Port of Tampa, emergency recovery crews worked with the Tampa Electric Company to restore power to 10 terminals within 12 hours after the storm. In addition to the 17 million gallons delivered last night, close to 57 million gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel will be distributed to tanker trucks at the port over the next 48 hours.

On the east coast, more than 23 million gallons of fuel is already on hand at the Port of Jacksonville, with three tanker ships delivering more than 26 million gallons over the next three days. Port Everglades has a supply of 40 million gallons of fuel with seven ships bringing an additional 66 million gallons over the next seven days. On an average day, consumers in Florida use 26.5 million gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel.