Florida Construction News staff writer
Winter Haven will receive $1.5 million to extend rail access within the Central Florida Integrated Logistics Park (CFILP) through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF). The extension aims to support business expansion in the area, creating an estimated 200 jobs.
“This award will make it easier to invest, operate, and relocate in Central Florida,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “This strategic transportation investment, combined with our ongoing Moving Florida Forward initiative, will eliminate supply chain bottlenecks and boost shipping capacity along the I-4 corridor, supporting businesses and strengthening our economy.”
The CFILP, located on 930 acres of developable land, offers over 8 million square feet of space for future development. The park is strategically positioned near major highways and features a dedicated CSX Rail Intermodal Facility. The site is already attracting diverse industries, including food and cold storage companies, manufacturers, and logistics firms. One notable announcement includes a fast-food company planning to establish a cold storage facility at the logistics park.
The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is designed to promote economic development through public infrastructure and workforce training projects across the state. Proposals are reviewed by FloridaCommerce and selected by Gov. DeSantis to address workforce or infrastructure needs in communities throughout Florida.
