The Florida Department of Transportation commissioned a study to determine what actions would ensure that Florida retains and enhances its longstanding position as the nation’s leading cruise state. 

Last Stand takes interest in the comments relating to the Key West port regarding the referendum that was defeated on 10/1/13 and the need for greater width and depth to the channel to accommodate the larger size and capacity ships the industry is building. 

Note in Actions To Be Taken on page 22 that “Cruise operations are not considered a sufficient reason for federal channel dredging project funding.”

Last Stand will continue to oppose any state or federal actions that would make dredging in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary possible.  However, Last Stand would support State regulations to improve both air and water emissions impacts of the cruise industry, particularly with respect to Key West.