Explore The Hidden Secrets Of Skyward Hernando A Symbol Of Hope And Possibility
Explore The Hidden Secrets Of Skyward Hernando: A Symbol of Hope and Possibility Explained
"Skyward Hernando" has become a rallying cry in Hernando County, Florida, but what exactly is it? This explainer delves into the project's history, current status, and future prospects, answering the key questions surrounding this ambitious endeavor.
What is Skyward Hernando?
Skyward Hernando is a multifaceted economic development initiative centered around the Hernando County Airport (Brooksville-Tampa Bay Regional Airport - BKV). It aims to transform the airport and its surrounding area into a hub for aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and technology, attracting high-paying jobs and diversifying the local economy. The project encompasses infrastructure improvements, business recruitment strategies, workforce development programs, and community engagement initiatives. It envisions a future where Hernando County is a key player in the burgeoning space and technology sectors.
Who is Involved?
The project is a collaborative effort involving several key players:
- Hernando County Government: Spearheading the initiative, providing funding, and managing land use planning. The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners has been instrumental in allocating resources and championing the project.
- Hernando County Airport Authority: Overseeing airport operations and infrastructure development, including runway expansions, hangar construction, and the establishment of Foreign Trade Zone #276.
- Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT): Providing significant funding for infrastructure projects and partnering on transportation planning. FDOT has invested millions in improving access to the airport.
- Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC): Developing workforce training programs tailored to the needs of the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries, ensuring a skilled local workforce.
- Private Sector Companies: Attracted by the favorable business environment and strategic location, these companies are investing in facilities and creating jobs within the Skyward Hernando footprint. These include aerospace manufacturers, maintenance providers, and logistics companies.
- CareerSource Pasco Hernando: Connecting job seekers with employment opportunities and providing career counseling services.
- 2010: The County began actively pursuing strategies to leverage the airport's potential for economic growth.
- 2013: The establishment of Foreign Trade Zone #276, allowing companies to import goods duty-free for manufacturing and export.
- 2015: Significant infrastructure improvements began, including runway extensions and the construction of new hangars.
- 2018: The County adopted a comprehensive economic development plan that explicitly identified the airport as a key driver of future growth.
- Present: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, business recruitment, and workforce development continue to advance the Skyward Hernando vision.
- Proximity to Tampa: The airport is within a reasonable driving distance of Tampa International Airport and the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, providing access to a large labor pool and diverse amenities.
- Access to Major Highways: The airport is easily accessible from major highways like the Suncoast Parkway (SR 589), facilitating transportation of goods and people.
- Available Land: Hernando County boasts ample available land for development, offering companies the opportunity to expand their operations.
- Foreign Trade Zone: The presence of Foreign Trade Zone #276 provides significant cost savings for companies involved in international trade.
- Economic Diversification: Hernando County's economy has historically relied heavily on residential construction and tourism. Skyward Hernando aims to diversify the economy by attracting high-growth industries like aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
- Job Creation: The project is expected to create thousands of high-paying jobs in the aerospace, technology, and manufacturing sectors, improving the quality of life for local residents. A 2020 study estimated that the airport already contributes over $100 million annually to the local economy and supports hundreds of jobs. Skyward Hernando aims to significantly increase these figures.
- Increased Tax Revenue: The influx of new businesses and jobs will generate increased tax revenue for the county, allowing for investments in infrastructure, education, and other essential services.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: The project will bring new amenities and opportunities to Hernando County, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
- Strategic Advantage: Skyward Hernando positions Hernando County as a key player in the growing aerospace and technology sectors, attracting investment and innovation.
- Runway Expansion: Ongoing efforts to extend the airport's main runway to accommodate larger aircraft. This is crucial for attracting aerospace companies and facilitating cargo operations.
- Hangar Construction: New hangars are being built to provide space for aircraft maintenance, manufacturing, and storage. Several companies have already committed to leasing space in these hangars.
- Workforce Development Programs: PHSC is expanding its training programs in areas such as aerospace technology, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity to meet the growing demand for skilled workers.
- Business Recruitment Efforts: The Hernando County Office of Economic Development is actively recruiting companies to locate in the Skyward Hernando area, offering incentives and assistance to attract investment.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Investments are being made in roads, utilities, and other infrastructure to support the growth of the airport and surrounding industrial parks.
- Securing Additional Funding: Continued efforts to secure funding from state and federal sources for infrastructure projects and workforce development programs.
- Expanding Workforce Training: Further expansion of PHSC's training programs to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries.
- Attracting Major Aerospace Companies: Proactive recruitment of major aerospace companies to establish operations in Hernando County, creating a critical mass of activity and attracting further investment.
- Developing a Comprehensive Marketing Strategy: A comprehensive marketing strategy to promote Skyward Hernando to potential investors and businesses.
- Community Engagement: Continued engagement with the local community to ensure that the project benefits all residents of Hernando County.
When Did This All Start?
While the concept of developing the Hernando County Airport has been around for decades, the "Skyward Hernando" initiative gained significant momentum in the early 2010s. Key milestones include:
Where is Skyward Hernando Located?
Skyward Hernando is centered around the Hernando County Airport (BKV), located in Brooksville, Florida. The project's influence extends beyond the airport boundaries, encompassing the surrounding industrial parks and commercial areas. Its strategic location offers several advantages:
Why is Skyward Hernando Important?
Skyward Hernando is crucial for several reasons:
Historical Context
Hernando County's economy has undergone significant transformations throughout its history. Initially based on agriculture and timber, the county experienced a period of rapid residential development in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. However, the economic downturn of 2008 highlighted the need for greater diversification. Skyward Hernando represents a strategic effort to move beyond traditional industries and embrace the opportunities of the 21st-century economy. The county's existing assets, including the airport and available land, provide a solid foundation for this transformation.
Current Developments
Several key developments are currently underway as part of the Skyward Hernando initiative:
Likely Next Steps
The future of Skyward Hernando hinges on continued investment, strategic partnerships, and effective implementation of the county's economic development plan. Likely next steps include:
Skyward Hernando represents a bold vision for the future of Hernando County. By leveraging its assets and fostering strategic partnerships, the county aims to transform its economy and create a thriving community for generations to come. While challenges remain, the project's momentum and the commitment of key stakeholders suggest that Skyward Hernando has the potential to become a significant driver of economic growth and opportunity in the region. The success of Skyward Hernando will depend on continued collaboration, strategic planning, and a unwavering commitment to realizing its ambitious goals.
