Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast Releases Statement on U.S. Space Command Decision

EDC led the effort to secure the joint combatant command on behalf of the community

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA  – The Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett announced this week Huntsville, Alabama as the preferred location to host U.S. Space Command Headquarters (USSPACECOM HQ).

Florida’s Space Coast was one of six finalists after the initial list was down-selected from 26 communities, including eight in Florida.

The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) led the effort to secure the joint combatant command on behalf of the community, working closely with Space Florida, the 45^th Space Wing, Brevard County, the North Brevard Economic Development Zone, City of Titusville, the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority, and other strategic partners.

The proposed site was located at the Space Coast Regional Airport/Spaceport in Titusville.

“By making it to the finals of this process, Florida’s Space Coast has distinguished itself nationally as one of the most military-friendly communities and capable of hosting a major combatant command,” said Lynda L. Weatherman, President & CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast.

“I am confident this community is well-positioned for other strategic basing opportunities in the near future and we will continue to work closely with the Air Force, Department of Defense, and our state and local partners to succeed.”

The birthplace of American space exploration and the hub of Florida’s space industry, Brevard County boasts generations of high-tech talent along with the largest share of STEM-related jobs in Florida.

Situated in the middle of major space, air, sea, road and rail corridors, Florida’s Space Coast offers an attractive tax and wage climate enticing a variety of industries.

Home to several colleges and universities, including the renowned Florida Institute of Technology, the Space Coast encompasses 72 miles of pristine beach and an average temperature of 73 degrees. Florida’s Space Coast is an alluring location to live, work and play.

The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast is dedicated to attracting new business and investment and expanding existing industry throughout the Space Coast, influencing change on government laws and regulations affecting economic development, promoting the Space Coast to encourage new investment, supporting efforts of Space Coast military installations, and relaying new programs and procedures to assist manufacturing and high-tech companies.

The EDC is a private, not-for-profit coalition whose stakeholders are business leaders committed to the economic growth and stability of Florida’s Space Coast.

Visit www.SpaceCoastEDC.org

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