State grants boost job growth in the Panhandle

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Two projects, expected to boost job growth here in the panhandle, got a boost from the state on Monday.

Governor Ron DeSantis awarded job growth grant funds to officials from Defuniak Springs and Jackson County while visiting Pensacola State College for a news conference.

Defuniak Springs received $3 million to complete the final phase of the Municipal Airport expansion. The money will go to build two 6,400 sq. ft. hangars, a 10,000 sq. ft. hangar, a taxiway, an access road, and all of the utilities needed for these additions.

City leaders are hoping to attract new companies to the airport. They’re anticipating the creation of 500 new jobs and a $12.3 million economic impact.

Governor DeSantis also presented a $4.6 million grant to Jackson County.

That money will go to pave 1.3 miles of the western end of Pooser Road. The road runs off of Highway 276, along the southern border of the endeavor project land.

County officials said the paving project will help secure a business at the intersection that will create 30 new jobs. It will also provide access to proposed housing development on the endeavor property that will provide about 250 affordable houses.

Pensacola State College received a $4.4 million grant to establish a new airframe and powerplant mechanics program at the Pensacola airport.

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