The Florida legislature approved a $10 million budget for the state’s aerospace economic development agency, Space Florida.
As part of the package, Florida lawmakers also approved $4 million in recurring funds for Space Florida, providing a funding floor for the agency in the years to come.
“This year’s legislative accomplishments were significant and we are extremely grateful for the leadership of our Governor and legislative leadership in recognizing the ongoing importance of aerospace to our Florida’s economic health,” Space Florida President Frank DiBello said in a March 14 press release. “This budget and the recurring funds initiated will enable consistent, continued job growth in our state.”
The Florida legislature wrapped up its 2012 session March 9. Besides the $10 million for Space Florida, the bicameral body also provided $15 million for the state Department of Transportation’s strategic intermodal system, which serves the state’s coastal spaceport infrastructure.
State lawmakers also designated Cecil Field, a naval air station near Jacksonville, as spaceport territory. The move clears the way for Space Florida to “include [Cecil Field] in master planning efforts and space-related infrastructure upgrade,” the March 14 press release said.
