A Port Initiative Focused on Long-Term Freight Potential

Port Citrus is Citrus County’s port initiative tied to the Cross Florida Barge Canal and its connection to the Gulf of Mexico. The Citrus County Port Authority provides the legal and governance structure to pursue the planning, property actions, and future facilities that could support a commercial port concept over time.  

Port Citrus has been studied as a proposed port concept intended to take advantage of the Cross Florida Barge Canal. County planning has referenced the opportunity to convert unique physical assets into sustainable economic opportunities and jobs, with the canal providing the core waterside framework for a potential barge-oriented port.  

The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners appoints itself as the governing body of the Citrus County Port Authority, which is identified as a dependent special district.  

The Port Authority was established through Florida Legislature adoption of House Bill 413 in Chapter 84-408 on May 21, 1984. Its service area is described as the northwest quadrant of Citrus County, west of U.S. 19 and north of Power Line Street. The Port Authority also states that there are no taxes, fees, assessments, or charges imposed or collected by the special district.  

The Port Authority’s stated purposes include acquiring land, submerged land, and water rights, improving property to promote the public good of Citrus County, and constructing and operating facilities associated with a commercial port concept. The enabling language also includes authority to regulate charges for use of facilities, issue revenue bonds or certificates, and adopt rules and procedures tied to development and operations.  

For statewide context on Florida seaport planning, programs, and reference materials, visit the Florida Department of Transportation's Seaport Office website.

FDOT Seaport Office.

If you are evaluating a marine logistics concept, an industrial use that benefits from water access, or a long-range Florida corridor opportunity, we can share what is documented today and help you understand what a realistic next step looks like based on your timeline.