Gulf County Economic Development Coalition identified a need for Freight Logistics Zone (FLZ) designation which is “…a grouping of activities and infrastructure associated with freight transportation and related services within a defined area around an intermodal logistics center. With funding provided by the Department of Economic Opportunity, the Apalachee RPC has been assisting with the development of the FLZ. The proposed FLZ stretches from the Port of Port St. Joe in Gulf County, through Franklin and Liberty Counties, north into Gadsden County. The system involves intermodal transportation of freight from the Port of Port St. Joe, using the Apalachicola Northern Genesee and Wyoming Rail line connection with the CSX Rail in Chattahoochee and I-10 interchanges in Gadsden County. This zone will allow for connectivity from seaports, airports, rail and highway systems to help increase the flow of freight and increase economic development.
A Strategic Sites Inventory was completed which identifies and evaluates parcels within the FLZ that are strategically positioned for future economic development uses. Currently, a draft strategic plan is being written and FLZ maps are being created. Stakeholders in the four counties have been involved since the beginning of the project and continue to participate, providing local knowledge of sites, and feedback on deliverables. The goal is that the FLZ, coupled with other initiatives, will complement the Port of Port St. Joe and help jumpstart economic development, infrastructure and job creation in the Apalachee RPC region. For more information contact Kwentin Eastberg at keastberg@thearpc.com.