Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference at SeaPort Manatee in Palmetto, Florida Monday to give the latest updates on recovery efforts across the state following Hurricane Milton.
During the news conference, DeSantis announced the state is providing $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to repair infrastructure damaged during Milton.
DeSantis said that the goal is to minimize supply chain interruptions that would affect Florida residents in need, which is why the state is investing in the rebuild.
The governor added that for every dollar the state invests in the port, it would receive a $7 return on investment.
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On Monday, the governor said that nearly four million Floridians have had power restored, which is about 97% of the population, and only 369,000 customers are currently without power.
The governor spoke alongside Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie, Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue, Major General John D. Haas, Adjutant General of Florida.
On Sunday, DeSantis announced Florida has secured approval for a major disaster declaration from FEMA.
When requesting aid from FEMA, Guthrie urged residents to make separate requests for damages suffered from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
Guthrie further added that anyone who combined the damages between the two hurricanes could experience a delay in getting assistance.
