The Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) proudly announces its receipt of the 2024 Regional Deal of the Year award bestowed by the Florida Economic Development Council (FEDC). OEV Director Keith Bowers accepted the award, which was presented at the FEDC Foundation Annual Conference Diamond Jubilee Awards Dinner on the night of April 16, 2024. This prestigious accolade recognizes the outstanding efforts of OEV in securing the Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Center (first called Project Mango), a monumental achievement for the region’s economic growth and vitality.
Keith Bowers, OEV Director, said, “Receiving the 2024 Regional Deal of the Year award reflects the relentless dedication and seamless teamwork at OEV, with immense support from our community partners. It’s also a nod to the incredible team at Amazon, whose unwavering commitment to community engagement and collaboration were crucial in launching the Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Center in Tallahassee-Leon County. This honor not only recognizes OEV’s commitment but also reaffirms our community’s position as a leader in economic development and motivates us to continue pushing boundaries, innovating, and pursuing opportunities that will further enhance our economic vitality.”
“Each year the Florida Economic Development Council accepts nominations for excellence in project development that results in job creation, capital investment, and increased wages in a Florida community at the Regional level, in Urban markets, and in Rural markets. These peer reviewed entries are evaluated on their alignment with economic development goals, overcoming obstacles or challenges, engagement of community stakeholders, and overall community impact,” said Beth Cicchetti, Executive Director of the FEDC. “As a proud Tallahasseean, I am personally thrilled by OEV’s recognition for the Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Center. This is arguably the largest project and greatest economic diversification the MSA has seen. Many families will benefit for years to come and that’s what it is all about. Congratulations to all involved for bringing this project across the finish line.”
The Amazon Tallahassee Fulfillment Center serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between the Tallahassee-Leon County Department of Planning, Land Management, and Community Enhancement (PLACE)—consisting of OEV, the Tallahassee-Leon County Planning Department, and the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency—the Intergovernmental Management Committee comprised of the Leon County Administrator and the City of Tallahassee Manager, Amazon, and key community stakeholders. The 3.2 million-square-foot facility has already exceeded employment expectations in its first six months of operations and anticipates a considerable $114 million annual impact on the community. With a $250 million capital investment, this state-of-the-art center has not only generated over 2,000 jobs but has created a ripple of economic development across various sectors.
“Since the very beginning of our project, the Office of Economic Vitality has been an indispensable partner in bringing our fulfillment center to life in Leon County, and now, we are proud to be providing good, well-paying jobs to the community,” said Sam Blatt, Amazon Economic Development Manager. “Amazon extends its congratulations to the Office of Economic Vitality on their well-deserved recognition as Regional Deal of the Year.”
According to the FEDC, “Deals of the Year recognizes outstanding achievement in the location or expansion of business in the State of Florida that meets community economic development goals and involves significant community program support, such as financial or permitting assistance, workforce development, state financial support, etc.” This award highlights OEV’s continued dedication to promoting business growth, attracting major investments, and creating opportunities for residents—solidifying Tallahassee-Leon County as a premier destination for business and innovation.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Florida Economic Development Council that underscores our commitment to job creation through collaborative efforts and contributions through the Office of Economic Vitality,” City Manager Reese Goad said. “Our steadfast focus continues to foster growth, opportunities and prosperity in our community, and create an environment where businesses thrive and residents flourish.”
“The Amazon deal is a testament to what we can accomplish when we stay focused on executing our economic development plan”, said Vincent Long, Leon County Administrator. “The return on investment, the historic number of jobs created, and the ripple effects through our local economy, make this “Deal of the Year” one that will benefit our community for many years to come”.
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