24-04-2025
Local economic projects pursue Triumph Gulf Coast funding
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The Walton County Commission Chambers Annex was filled with anticipation Wednesday as community leaders and stakeholders gathered to see which economic development projects would secure approval for Triumph Gulf Coast funding.
'We brought three projects to the board for consideration in Bay County,' said CEO of Bay EDA Becca Hardin. 'Two are related to aviation, and one is tied to port expansion. There's a lot of momentum in our region right now.'
The first project to receive approval was Project Clear, a commercial and residential glass company planning to expand its operations to the Port of Panama City. The company is requesting up to $3.7 million in grant funding to support the move.
'They're currently at capacity at their existing facility,' Hardin explained. 'They already use our port to import raw materials from Mexico, and they've been looking to expand. Fortunately, we found a suitable building—ironically, one owned by the Bay County Commission.'
Also moving forward is Project Spinner, a major aviation initiative with a three-part expansion plan.
The company recently acquired a building in the City of Lynn Haven and is set to build an engine maintenance center at the local airport. In addition, they will invest $70 million into a cutting-edge engine testing facility, also at the airport. The project is expected to create 500 jobs and represents a $107 million capital investment, making it one of the largest projects ever announced in partnership with the Bay County Airport Authority.
Rounding out the approvals, Florida's Great Northwest strategic plan, United Forward, is advancing to the next stage.
'This is a two-pronged approach to economic development and market activation,' said Florida's Great Northwest CEO Jennifer Connelly. Over five years, we'll see $4.7 million invested in amplifying Northwest Florida's business brand. It's a transformative step forward for our region's economic strategy.'
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