Port Canaveral has selected Titusville-based Rush Construction, Inc. to build the uplands portion of a new $5.2 million commercial fishing facility, the Canaveral Port Authority announced.

The project aims to modernize the Space Coast’s working waterfront and support the commercial fishing industry, which processes and ships about 4 million pounds of fresh seafood nationwide each year.

The Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners recently approved Rush Construction for the site’s uplands improvements.

This follows a previous contract awarded to Rush Marine, LLC, another Titusville-based division of the company, to build a 16-slip commercial fishing dock at the site. The new waterfront development will feature 125 feet of dedicated bulkhead space.

Planned upland improvements include a large open-air pavilion equipped with fish cleaning stations, office space, restroom buildings, and parking for trucks and trailers.

“Port Canaveral began as a commercial fishing port in 1953, and our decades-long legacy with this industry continues to this day,” Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray said. Murray noted the investment reflects the port’s commitment to an industry that delivers significant economic benefits to Brevard County and the broader region.

The facility is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to finish in early 2027. Port officials said the new dedicated fishing area will help revitalize the southwest waterfront, clearing space for the future development of Cruise Terminal 4.

In a related move, commissioners also approved Moffatt & Nichol, Inc. to handle engineering and permitting for a future consolidated marina district aimed at recreational boaters. The modernized marina project will preserve public access to the boat ramps at Rodney Ketcham Park, with plans to upgrade the launch facilities to handle larger vessels.

Sources:

• Canaveral Port Authority press release.