James Bennett, chief operating officer for the Jacksonville Port Authority, died early Monday in a car accident.
Bennett died just before 7:30 a.m. on Interstate 10 west of U.S. 301 near Baldwin, local media reported, after he had slowed his Lexus sedan for congestion. His car was struck from behind by a Ford F-150 pickup driven by a 16-year old.
Bennett had served as COO for the port since 2022 after joining the agency in 2017.
“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our colleague and friend, James Bennett,” the authority said in a statement. “James dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for people in Northeast Florida, and our entire community is better for his service. He was a valued member of our leadership team, overseeing two of our largest departments – operations and engineering – and serving as a trusted liaison for many of our port partners.”
Bennett joined Jaxport in 2017 as senior director of engineering and construction, and as COO oversaw the port’s three operational divisions as well as its engineering and construction department. He managed major projects including the expansion of Blount Island’s container and auto-handling capabilities; the completion of the harbor deepening project; a $100-million berth modernization project, and renovations to the cruise terminal.
As COO, Bennett managed the port’s operational divisions as well as its engineering and construction department. He oversaw JaxPort’s capital growth program and the expansion of Blount Island’s container and auto-handling capabilities.
Bennett previously worked for the Florida Department of Transportation as a planning manager, and as a senior engineer for RS&H, an architecture, engineering and consulting firm. He also served on the Baker County Board of County Commissioners since 2011.
“Our community has lost a dedicated public servant, a cherished colleague, and a well-respected leader,” the commission said in a statement on social media. “Commissioner Bennett’s impact on Baker County was immeasurable. His integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to this community will forever remain a part of our county’s history. We are grateful for his years of service and for the steady sense of responsibility and service he demonstrated throughout his time in office.”
Services were pending for Bennett, who is survived by his wife and two children.
Find more articles by Stuart Chirls here.
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