Winter Haven will receive a $1.5 million investment from Governor Ron DeSantis to expand rail access at the Central Florida Integrated Logistics Park, creating new opportunities for businesses and workers in the region
Winter Haven, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a significant investment aimed at boosting economic growth in Central Florida. On Monday, the governor awarded $1.5 million to Winter Haven to extend rail access within the Central Florida Integrated Logistics Park (CFILP) through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (JGGF). This extension is set to support local businesses, facilitate their expansion, and help create approximately 200 new jobs in the region.
“Today’s award will make it easier to invest, operate, and relocate in Central Florida,” Governor DeSantis stated. “This strategic transportation investment, combined with our ongoing Moving Florida Forward initiative, will eliminate supply chain bottlenecks and boost shipping capacity along the I-4 corridor, supporting businesses and strengthening our economy.”
The CFILP is an expansive 930-acre logistics hub that holds immense potential for the future of Central Florida’s economy. With the ability to accommodate over 8 million square feet of development space, the park is ideally located near major transportation routes and includes a dedicated CSX Rail Intermodal Facility. These features position the park as a prime location for logistics, manufacturing, and food storage businesses, among others.
The rail extension funded by the JGGF is expected to be a game-changer for the region. The improved rail access will not only help existing businesses that already rely on this critical transportation infrastructure, but it will also attract new businesses looking for an efficient way to ship goods across the state and beyond. One notable example is a fast-food giant that recently announced it would build a cold storage facility at the logistics park, highlighting the area’s appeal to a range of industries.
“I’m grateful for Governor DeSantis’ leadership in recognizing both the crucial role that Florida’s railways play in the state’s economic success and the positive effect further expanding them can have,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Extending this rail line will help retain current businesses who use the line and attract new job creators and job seekers.”
The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an important tool in the state’s economic development strategy. It is designed to fund public infrastructure projects and workforce training initiatives across Florida. Proposals for funding are carefully reviewed by FloridaCommerce and selected by Governor DeSantis to meet the state’s most pressing infrastructure and workforce needs. By targeting key projects like the CFILP rail extension, the fund helps to build a stronger, more resilient economy across the state.
This investment in Winter Haven is a clear example of the state’s commitment to fostering business growth, creating jobs, and addressing the infrastructure needs of Florida’s growing economy. As rail access improves at the Central Florida Integrated Logistics Park, local businesses will benefit from enhanced shipping capacity, and new opportunities will open up for workers and companies looking to tap into Central Florida’s vibrant logistics sector.
With the $1.5 million grant, Governor DeSantis is helping to pave the way for continued development in Central Florida, positioning the region as a critical hub for commerce and trade. The rail extension is expected to be a vital catalyst for the region’s growth in the coming years, making it easier for businesses to operate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2025/governor-ron-desantis-awards-15-million-winter-haven-through-job-growth-grant-fund
