Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared Perdue visited the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) crew working in Sarasota County on Tuesday, October 22, to personally offer his gratitude and encouragement for their ongoing efforts in the aftermath of the recent hurricanes.

Since arriving in Florida on October 12, ALDOT crews have been stationed at the Manatee Operations Center in Bradenton, Fla. Crews have worked tirelessly alongside FDOT to clear storm debris from roadways, with a specific focus on state routes in Sarasota County. The partnership between ALDOT and FDOT has helped accelerate recovery efforts.

“Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton took a major toll on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and FDOT immediately went to work to begin clearing the way, and thankfully, we weren’t alone,” Perdue said. “I’m extremely grateful for Director John Cooper and the Alabama DOT crews who came to assist us as we cleared away debris caused by Hurricane Milton. With their help, we are working to get Florida’s communities back to normal.”

Cooper praised both ALDOT crews for their resilience and the amount of work they accomplished.

“We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication our Alabama crews have shown during this recovery effort,” Cooper said. “Their willingness to leave home and help our neighbors in Florida in the wake of these devastating storms speaks volumes about their commitment to public service. They’ve done an outstanding job, and we’re grateful for the positive impact they’ve made.”