Florida Construction News staff writer
The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF) has allocated funds to the cities of Umatilla and Plant City for significant infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering the manufacturing sector and enhancing access to commercial and industrial sites. These JGGF awards are set to create or retain nearly 4,000 jobs.
“Today’s Job Growth Grant Fund awards reinforce our dedication to expanding manufacturing and other skilled labor opportunities in Florida,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement. “Our state’s strong fiscal health allows us to invest in local communities, generating more job opportunities for Floridians.”
The following projects have received awards from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund:
- City of Umatilla ($4.9 million): This project will enhance intersection improvements and increase water and sewer capacity at Lake Ferns Industrial Park, creating 300 new high-wage jobs in advanced manufacturing and construction materials.
- City of Plant City ($5.5 million): This project includes the construction of a 2.75-mile loop extension of Henderson Way, providing access to approximately 310 acres of commercial and light industrial development sites. It encompasses the construction of roadways, a potable water distribution system, a water collection system, a reclaimed water distribution system, electrical infrastructure, and commercial utilities.
The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by FloridaCommerce and selected by DeSantis to address workforce training and infrastructure needs in communities statewide.