Project Forte involves the demolition of an existing building at 5421 Beaver Street in a blighted area of Northwest Jacksonville and the construction of a new 300,000 square foot industrial building. The project aims to attract manufacturing tenants and create additional jobs, enhancing economic development in a distressed area. The total investment is estimated to be $35 million, and the project is expected to create 50-100 construction jobs and at least 10 permanent full-time jobs once operational. The project qualifies for a 5-year Recapture Enhanced Value (REV) grant, not to exceed $1 million, as part of the City of Jacksonville's effort to reduce blight and promote investment in economically distressed areas.
This project is important because it helps revitalize a blighted area in Northwest Jacksonville, attracts manufacturing companies, and creates job opportunities, thus improving the local economy.