Cruise Ship Terminal

A new state law aimed at blocking a proposed cruise port in Manatee County may still leave the door open to large-scale development in the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, according to environmental advocates and legal experts.

An amended bill headed to the governor's desk would severely restrict dredging in an area near the Sunshine Skyway that would be used by large cruise ships .

The amendment was sponsored by state Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, to restrict any dredging in the sensitive marine environment.

The proposed terminal has aroused opposition from fishers, boaters and environmental advocates who want to protect the ecologically sensitive area. Around 12,000 people have signed a petition against it so far.