Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Milton, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the opening of several free fuel distribution sites to assist communities in the wake of the storm. To ease fuel shortages, the state has deployed 2.4 million gallons from reserves as major ports begin resuming operations. In addition to providing immediate relief, the governor has committed $9.5 million toward supporting critical infrastructure recovery.
Statewide Effort to Restore Fuel Access
Fuel sites will be operational daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or until supplies run out. Each vehicle will be limited to 10 gallons of fuel, and motorists should be prepared for extended wait times at busier locations. This initiative follows Hurricane Milton’s widespread impact, marking Florida’s second major storm in just two weeks.
Key Fuel Distribution Locations
Here’s a list of fuel distribution sites and their opening times:
- East Bay Raceway: 6311 Burts Rd, Tampa – Opens at 10 a.m.
- Plant City Stadium: 1810 S Park Road, Plant City – Opens at 7 a.m.
- Central Lot – Tropicana Field: 800 1st Ave S, St. Pete – Opens at 7 a.m.
- Suncoast Technical College: 4445 Career Lane, North Port – Opens at 7 a.m.
- Charlotte Sports Park: 2300 El Jobean, Port Charlotte – Opens at 7 a.m.
- St. Pete College Tarpon Springs: 600 E Klosterman Rd, Tarpon Springs – Opens at 10 a.m.
- Wiregrass Mall: 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel – Opens at 10 a.m.
This comprehensive fuel relief effort ensures that residents can regain mobility while other recovery operations continue across the state.
Governor’s Commitment to Recovery
Alongside the fuel distribution, the $9.5 million recovery package will bolster infrastructure repair, including essential port operations. Governor DeSantis emphasized that restoring normalcy to affected communities is a top priority. “The hardening of our infrastructure will not only aid immediate recovery efforts but also prepare Florida for future natural disasters,” said the governor in a statement.
Prepare for Long Waits and Limited Supply
As demand remains high, residents should expect long wait times and are encouraged to arrive early at distribution sites. The 10-gallon limit per vehicle ensures that more families can access fuel, but patience will be necessary as supplies are distributed.
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