The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), a decades-old event that supports the city’s multibillion-dollar marine industry, got the green light from Broward County commissioners this week.
Despite COVID-19, the Commissioner stated, “I believe the show is needed now more than ever. It is extremely vital.”
The region’s marine industry, the Marine Industries Association of South Florida says, generates 111,000 middle class jobs in Broward, 142,000 regionally and $8.9 billion in economic activity for the county.
Despite the destructed on other parts of the economy during the pandemic, this year has seen a huge demand in boats of all sizes, so the city is choosing to move forward with the event with appropriate safety precautions.
Among other things, there will be wider docks for social distancing, a capacity cap of 28,000 people, mandatory face masks for all staff and visitors, screening measures such as temperature checks, and overnight disinfections.
“The city has discussed the boat show at pretty good length,” said Fort Lauderdale City Manager Chris Lagerbloom. “Informa has put a lot of thought, effort and time in coming up with a plan. We recognize how important the boat show is to Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. I encourage you to continue to work with the boat show to secure a safe event.”
None of the county commissioners opposed the event, but they wanted assurances that public health rules will be strictly enforced as the business community seeks to mine the show’s vast economic benefits.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is scheduled to take place from October 28th to November 1st, 2020.
