In a commentary published today, Fitch Ratings reports that its rated toll roads, ports, and airports “have not sustained any significant damage from Hurricane Helene, and credit ratings are unaffected. . . . Transportation credits have quickly resumed operations, with little disruption to revenues.” Fitch specifically notes, “None of the toll roads we rate in the southeast suffered material damage, as most were not in the path of the storm. Tampa’s Sunshine Skyway temporarily closed. Closures and toll suspensions due to hurricanes are typical in Florida, potentially occurring a few days a year, but this has had a negligible effect on toll road revenues historically.”
Fitch adds this comment on the resilience of transportation facilities: “Transportation assets are built to largely withstand weather-related risks, and transportation assets in hurricane-prone Florida have historically demonstrated quick recoveries following storms. Transportation facilities also maintain strong cash reserves to cover short-term cost increases while waiting for insurance reimbursement and Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance.”