The Canaveral Port Authority announced the retirement of Commission Chairman Jerry Allender at its October Board meeting, where it also voted to rename Jetty Park Drive to “Jerry Allender Way” in recognition of his contributions.

Allender joined the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners in 1983 and, over his 28-year career, served as chairman six times in 1990, 1991, 2015, 2016, 2022 and 2026.

The authority said in a statement that it voted on a resolution to rename Jetty Park Drive to Jerry Allender Way but is waiting on necessary paperwork and approvals from local agencies to make it official.

According to the statement, Allender was joined by his wife, children and grandchildren at his final board meeting and received a standing ovation from all in attendance.

The port authority added that Allender leaves behind a legacy of leadership, kindness and respect for others, while embodying the port’s values of integrity, ethics and commitment to serving the community.

“Thank you, Chairman Allender, for your contributions to the port, and best of luck in this next chapter of your life,” the authority said.