Tallahassee recently received high marks as a leading metro area in the 2023 Leading Metro Locations report published in the Q4 2023 issue of Area Development magazine. More specifically, the Tallahassee Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) distinguished itself from other communities in the United States. Most notably the Tallahassee MSA ranked #1 for Economic Strength, #2 Mid-Sized Metro Locations, #4 South Atlantic Region Metro Area, and #9 Overall Metro Locations.
David Pollard, the Director of the Tallahassee International Airport, in a recent press release, explained the pivotal role the airport plays in Tallahassee’s economic prosperity.
Pollard noted over the past decade the Tallahassee International Airport has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a regional air hub to a dynamic economic engine driving growth and opportunity in the Tallahassee area.
Pollard said, “Through strategic planning and intentional efforts, we have witnessed a staggering increase in our airport’s annual economic impact, soaring from $399 million in 2014 to nearly $1 billion today—an impressive 150% growth in just 10 years.”
And Pollard believes this economic impact will continue.
“With the imminent opening of the International Processing Facility next year and the establishment of a new Foreign Trade Zone, our airport is poised to serve as an even more dynamic catalyst for business expansion, innovation, and global connectivity,” said Pollard.
According to the release, the International Processing Facility, a $28 million state-of-the-art facility, will “revolutionize international cargo operations, expediting customs clearance processes and facilitating seamless movement of goods between Tallahassee and global markets.” The investment is geared toward “attracting international businesses, stimulate trade activities, and fuel economic growth and job creation throughout the region.”
Pollard also highlighted the establishment of a new Foreign Trade Zone which is designed to foster a” business-friendly environment conducive to innovation and expansion.”
The designated zone will offer businesses incentives, including duty deferral, tariff exemptions, and streamlined customs procedures, thereby reducing operational costs and enhancing competitiveness. These incentives will be available to startups and multinational corporations who understand the strategic advantages of the Foreign Trade Zone.
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“.. we have witnessed a staggering increase in our airport’s annual economic impact, soaring from $399 million in 2014 to nearly $1 billion today—”
TR show us the numbers and sources this statement comes from. Come on Steve! Better indepth reporting!
My issue is not with the Airports or if a Plane is half empty, my issue has to do with Parts falling off the Planes. I was going to put on a Cannonball Style Cross Country Race last October but I wasn’t about to get on a Plane to meet all the Cars when they arrived in Las Vegas after I launched them from Tallahassee.
Potemkin airport. those new Ft Lauderdale flights are half empty. an opposing independent voice would be good to hear