Florida Construction News staff writer
Port Tampa Bay has begun the first visible phase of development for its first new cruise terminal in more than 25 years, with work underway to fill the former Metroport site, once home to the historic Banana Docks.
The project marks the start of construction on what will become the port’s fourth cruise terminal. The current phase involves restoring more than five acres of land that will serve as the future terminal site.
Kimmins Contracting Corporation is leading the site preparation work, which includes filling the former Metroport area and relocating critical stormwater infrastructure. The work is expected to continue through late 2026, after which the site will undergo a settlement period before construction of the terminal begins.
The new cruise terminal will be built on the site of a former marine slip, with completion targeted for 2029.
HDR, working in partnership with BEA Architects, has been selected to design both the terminal and an accompanying parking garage. Initial renderings of the facility are expected to be released in the coming months.
“This project is about much more than adding another cruise terminal. It’s an investment in the future of Port Tampa Bay and the economy of West Central Florida,” said Port Tampa Bay President and CEO Paul Anderson.
“As cruise demand continues to grow, this terminal will strengthen our ability to serve existing cruise partners, attract new opportunities and support jobs, tourism and business throughout the region.”
Once completed, the new terminal is expected to accommodate more than 200 additional cruise ship calls each year. Port officials estimate the expansion will increase the port’s annual cruise passenger volume to more than 2 million and generate approximately $100 million in additional annual economic impact for the region.
