Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) announced that he awarded over $12 million in funding to four separate government entities concerning aviation and defense. Three projects will be funded through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, including the establishment of a new major at Pensacola State College, and infrastructure for DeFuniak Springs and Jackson County. The funding security infrastructure will be Santa Rosa County Whiting Aviation Park, through the Defense Infrastructure Grant.
Pensacola State College will receive $4,410,000 to create a new Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Program. This includes the production of a new hanger, training equipment, and operating costs for the program which will be located at Pensacola Airport (PNS).
Infrastructure for DeFuniak Springs will receive a total of $3,051,550 for the construction of two hangers (6,400 and 10,000 square feet), and additional necessary components like a taxiway and an access road.
Jackson County, Florida will receive a total of $4,680,059 for a new two-lane road that intends to “connect a workforce housing development with an industrial area.” The Executive Office of the Governor states that this grant adds to $23 million in investments to the country already.
Finally, $500,000 will head toward the Santa Rosa County Whiting Aviation Park for a “security fence project.” This includes a double-entry gate system which is supposed to increase efficiency, security, and emergency response times at the site.
Gov. DeSantis said that these initiatives will provide “new opportunities” for the people of northwest Florida.
“Today’s awards will help bring high demand, high wage jobs and businesses to Northwest Florida,” said Gov. DeSantis. “These strategic investments will benefit Escambia, Walton, Santa Rosa and Jackson counties and provide new opportunities for families from across the Panhandle.”
Furthermore, Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly added, “Governor DeSantis’ focus on catalytic infrastructure and workforce investments, especially in sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace and aviation, and military and defense, will continue to bring job creators and job seekers to Northwest Florida. I’m especially grateful for the Governor’s support of the community-driven visions in each of these projects.”
These projects are estimated to provide nearly $25 million in impact for the Panhandle.
