Fort Lauderdale Pushes to Lead Global Ocean Economy, Urgent Initiatives Announced

UPDATE: Fort Lauderdale is positioning itself as a leader in the global ocean economy following the successful Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show held from October 29 to November 2, 2023. City officials, including Commissioner Ben Sorensen, are urging the community to embrace the ocean-driven economy that could significantly impact local jobs and environmental sustainability.

The ocean economy is not merely a niche; it is a crucial economic engine. Recent data shows the United States marine and coastal economy contributed over $511 billion to the national GDP in 2023, supporting millions of jobs across coastal regions. With Port Everglades generating approximately $28.1 billion in annual business activity and sustaining over 200,000 jobs in Florida, the potential for growth in Fort Lauderdale is immense.

Officials emphasize that Fort Lauderdale, known as the “Venice of America,” is uniquely positioned to be a collaborative hub for ocean-related industries. The newly established Florida Office of Ocean Economy at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) aims to bolster the state’s leadership in ocean-linked industries, creating opportunities for local initiatives to flourish.

As part of its commitment, Fort Lauderdale appointed its first chief waterways officer in April 2025, unifying efforts in safety, infrastructure, conservation, and economic opportunity. Recent initiatives include:

– **Restoration Efforts**: Over 100 mangroves were planted at George English Park and Coontie Hatchee Park, enhancing local ecosystems.
– **Enhanced Water Quality Testing**: Collaborating with Miami Waterkeeper, the city has expanded testing to improve water safety and transparency.
– **Infrastructure Improvements**: Stormwater upgrades and smart pumps are being implemented to bolster neighborhood resilience against flooding.
– **Safer Boating Initiatives**: Funded by the state of Florida, the city introduced its first pump-out boat for safe waste disposal among boaters.

Looking ahead, officials have ambitious plans to develop further initiatives that will reshape the ocean economy:

– **Real-Time Data Accessibility**: An open data resolution will be championed to launch a public Waterways Dashboard featuring sensors that will monitor tides, salinity, and temperature.
– **Workforce Development**: Collaborations with local educational institutions aim to create clear career pathways in marine services, logistics, and technology for students from kindergarten to graduate studies.
– **Collaborative Partnerships**: The ocean economy will be framed as a communal effort, inviting NGOs, agencies, and universities across the Caribbean and Latin America to take part in collaborative projects.

With the world’s largest in-water boat show recently attracting thousands of visitors, Fort Lauderdale is ready to harness its resources and expertise to lead the ocean economy forward. The city, alongside Nova Southeastern University (NSU), which recently achieved R1 research status, is set to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit both the economy and the environment.

As Fort Lauderdale embarks on this crucial journey, officials are committed to proving that economic prosperity and environmental preservation can thrive side by side. The community is invited to share in this vision, making waves that could reverberate across the globe.

Stay tuned as Fort Lauderdale aims to transform into a leading force in marine innovation, demonstrating what it means to truly embrace the ocean economy.