UPDATE: From Mayor D.C. Reeves: “We appreciate Clark Merritt’s work with the city and the Port of Pensacola over the years. He has been a valuable asset to us. We wish him only the best in his future endeavors.”
Clark Merritt, the Port of Pensacola director, has stepped down from my position, effective immediately, to pursue opportunities in the private sector.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to have served the Port of Pensacola and all its tenants, users, partners, and others alongside our dedicated Port team. I am incredibly grateful for the dedication and hard work of our staff,” Merritt said in an email.
He added, “Over thirteen years here, the Port has undergone a major transformation. Since assuming the role of Director three and a half years ago, I’ve had the privilege of helping guide tremendous cargo growth and vessel activity, directly supporting key NW Florida players like GE Vernova and Cemex. We’ve seen the American Magic facility well under construction, dock construction coming for the east side of the port, and the unprecedented road and rail improvement infrastructure project now underway. There is so much on the horizon for this 55-acre deep water port, and I have no doubt that the professional Port staff will continue to lead and make decisions that will further its success.”
“It has been my honor to serve and work with you. I wish you continued success and all the best in your future endeavors.”
Clark Merritt was promoted to Port Director by Mayor Grover Robinson and confirmed by the City Council in June 2021. A Pensacola native with deep roots in the local maritime industry, Merritt brought a wealth of experience to this vital role overseeing one of the region’s key economic engines.
Merritt’s connection to maritime commerce runs deep through his family history in Pensacola. After graduating from the University of Florida, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy, beginning a distinguished career in maritime and public service. His professional experience includes service as a naval officer, work with the U.S. House of Representatives, and various roles at the Port of Pensacola prior to assuming the directorship.
Since taking the helm as Port Director, Merritt has launched several ambitious initiatives to modernize and expand the port’s capabilities. He has overseen major infrastructure improvements, including an $11.2 million renovation project to repair rail beds and roads damaged during Hurricane Sally, as well as a $2.5 million investment in stormwater drainage improvements along 9th Avenue.
- Under Merritt’s leadership, the port has successfully attracted and retained several key businesses, strengthening its economic foundation. These partnerships include Offshore Inland Marine & Oilfield Services, Cemex, Martin Marietta, Pate Stevedore, American Magic, and GE Vernova. This diversification of operations, which began with a strategic shift in 2013, has been complemented by successful grant acquisitions for facility revitalization.
One of the most significant developments during Merritt’s tenure has been the creation of the Maritime Center of Excellence. This innovative facility, which will host American Magic and accommodate spring regattas, represents a major step forward in expanding the port’s capabilities and regional influence.
Featured Photo Licensed under the Unsplash+ License
