Engineering
Engineering Overview
The Engineering Department oversees the management, maintenance, and strategic growth of the Port’s critical infrastructure. Responsible for both preserving existing assets and planning future expansion, the team ensures all capital budget projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with the Port’s long-term vision.
Under the leadership of Vice President Patrick Blair and Director Jose DeJesus, the department is supported by skilled project managers and engineers, a dedicated survey team, a GIS division, and essential support staff. Together, they manage and implement capital projects, maintain and improve existing facilities, and coordinate dredging operations across 75 public berths in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure navigational channels remain fully operational.
With a commitment to operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and innovation, the Engineering Department plays a vital role in supporting the continued growth of Florida’s largest port — enabling it to meet current demands while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Port Departments
Recently Completed Projects
Berth 214 Uplands Improvements
Project Description: 30 Acres of Container Yard including Super Duty Pavement Section, Utilities and Storm Water.
Project Cost: $18.6 M
Berth 203 Upland Auto Terminal
Project Description: 10 Acres of Auto Yard Development including Paving, Utilities and Storm Water.
Project Cost: $3.5 M
On-Going Projects
Berth 214 Uplands Improvements
Project Description:
- 1,300 linear foot Steel Bulkhead Wharf
- Gantry crane rail, foundation & electrical upgrades
- 50 future dredge depth
Estimated Total Project Cost for New Berth: $67.2 M
- Phase 1 – $17.5 M (CIP FY24)
- Phase 2 – $49.7 M (CIP FY25)
Berth 214 Wharf Gantry Cranes
Project Description: 2 New Post Panamax Ship to Shore Gantry Cranes
Estimated Total Project Cost for New Berth: $34.0 M
Hooker’s Point: Power Resiliency
Project Description: Hardening of Hookers Point Electrical Distribution System
- Installation of new underground feeders (i.e., buried electrical lines)
- Scope 1: Conduit installation
- Scope 2: Wire, transformers and gear installation
Estimated Total Project Cost for New Berth: $14.0 M
Hooker’s Point: New Berth 218
Project Description:
- New Wharf – approx. 500 ft of Steel Bulkhead Wharf
- 2 Breasting Dolphins, 2 barge-breasting dolphins
- Fendering, lighting and mooring points
Estimated Total Project Cost for New Berth: $21.5 M
Hooker’s Point: New Berth 301
Project Description: 500 LF of Steel Bulkhead Wharf with 47 ft future dredge depth
Estimated Total Project Cost for New Berth: $22.0 M
Reports & Forms
Site Improvements Permit Application Forms.
Please attach all files to downloaded application before submitting.
Application Over $200,000
(or if easement is required)
PTB Damage Assessment Report
Link to report: https://arcg.is/0yTmz81 or scan QR Code.
Survey
Port Tampa Bay has an in-house survey team available for any project the Port is working on and related to. Our Survey building is located on Hooker’s Point and is strategically positioned should we need to perform any site visits and gather data; the Survey team is available on site. We can perform hydrographic surveying with a fully outfitted Survey boat with a multibeam echo sounder, and land surveying with boundary and topographic surveys utilizing GPS and Total Station. Our Survey team also conducts bathymetric surveys to collect data on the depths of the channel, so we can move forward with dredging areas to meet the correct depth, allowing vessels to move in our channels with the appropriate draft. Once data is collected in the field, Port Tampa Bay processes the data and plot’s it via AutoCAD to reflect the latest as built drawings collected. The Port also possess a drone to assist in taking aerial pictures and videos as needed per project. Should a hurricane occur, drone footage is taken and recorded prior to the storm event and afterwards to aid in determining the damage caused. Should a hurricane related event affect Port Tampa Bay, the Survey team will assist NOAA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the USCG in the efforts of opening the Port in a timely manner.
Definition Land surveying involves determining and defining property boundaries with the physical features of land, by utilizing mathematical, engineering, and legal concepts. This includes measuring and mapping land, and the location of boundaries, structures, and natural features. Land surveyors use specialized equipment and techniques to establish, re-establish, or verify property lines and create accurate representations of the land.
Contact Information:
George Stanmore, PSM
Chief Surveyor
[email protected]
Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
GIS (Geographical Information Systems) – Port Tampa Bay’s GIS database is updated annually to assure the most accurate information is present to assist in managing projects within Port Tampa Bay and it’s surrounding area. This information includes but is not limited to maintaining correct and current utilities, property lines and parcels, easements, environmental, permits, wharfs and terminals, railroads, and the latest imagery. Additionally, to these base layers, the GIS portal provides specific information related to NOAA sea level rise, marine traffic, storm prediction center, wayfinding signs, latest news headlines, major distribution centers, and the nearest auto dealerships.
Contact information:
Joel D. Eastman V, GISP
GIS Manager
[email protected]
Contact Information
For more information concerning Tenant Site Improvements Applications, please contact:
Patricia Villanti
Engineering Assistant
Email: [email protected]
Engineering FAQs
How do I bid on construction projects?
All PTB’s biddable projects are posted on Demandstar. More information on Demandstar can be found under our Procurement department’s link.
What future projects are coming up to bid on?
A list of future capital projects is provided under this page. Additionally, future projects are posted at the end of every board meeting and is included on the board writeups which is available HERE (Need to link to the board meeting web page link)
Who is responsible for repairs to building, roads and other infrastructure?
Each lease is different, and each lessee should review their independent leases to determent who is responsible for different types of repairs.
What type of permit do I need for improvements to my lease property?
A Site Improvement Plan (SIP) application needs to be filled out for any improvements made to lease property. The SIP application can be found on the engineering page.
Do I need any additional permitting?
PTB only approves the SIP applications. All other local government agencies should be contacted to confirm additional applications and permits required per construction task.
Who do I call to locate utilities on my lease parcel?
All contractors should call in an 811 utility locate prior to starting any construction work. PTB utility crew is copied in on 811 tickets and will work with locators to locate each ticket submitted through 811.
How do I request a survey of my Berth?
Contact the PTB PM in charge of the dredging contract and request a survey. A Joint Partnership Agreement (JPA) will need to be drafted. The PTB PM will coordinate this work. Current PM is Nick Depin, PE and can be reached at [email protected]
How to I get my berth dredged?
Contact the PTB PM in charge of the dredging contract and request to join. A Joint Partnership Agreement (JPA) will need to be drafted. The PTB PM will coordinate this work. Current PM is Nick Depin, PE and can be reached at [email protected]