About the Ocean Highway and Port Authority

Our Mission and Public Purpose

The Ocean Highway and Port Authority (OHPA) serves the principal public purpose of encouraging economic development in Nassau County through the management and operation of the Port of Fernandina.

History

The Port Authority was originally chartered in 1941 as a body politic and corporate and a subdivision of the State of Florida having a corporate title ofFernandina Port Authority. The name was changed in 1961 to Ocean Highway and Port Authority.

Legal Status

OHPA is an independent special district, a political subdivision of the State of Florida. As the Port's governing body, the Port Authority has policy-making, budgeting, and general oversight responsibilities for all port activities.

The Port Authority has powers similar to those of a unit of local government and is accountable to the electorate residing in Nassau County.

Service Area

The Ocean Highway and Port Authority serves Nassau County, Florida, located in the northeastern corner of the state. The Port of Fernandina is situated on Amelia Island, providing strategic access to both domestic and international shipping routes.

Governing Documents

OHPA operates under its establishing charter and applicable Florida Statutes, including but not limited to the requirements set forth in Section 189.069, Florida Statutes, for independent special districts.