Return to Press ReleasesCity of DeLand Receives Economic Development Grant from Duke Energy FoundationDeLand, Florida – The City of DeLand received a $20,000 grant from Duke Energy Foundation to showcase commercial development opportunities near the DeLand Municipal Airport and to enhance the overall economic well-being of the West Volusia County region.“We are grateful for Duke Energy's investment in the City of DeLand,” said City Manager Michael Pleus. “This funding will further the work with our partners including Duke Energy, Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation, and Volusia County Economic Development to promote opportunities at the northwest industrial base and DeLand Airport area targeted to the Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, and Green Energy sectors.” The City of DeLand is one of only 15 organizations in Florida to collectively receive $20,000 in grants from the Duke Energy Foundation. The focus of the Duke grant is to showcase viable undeveloped commercial property within its Northwest Industrial park, strategically located between two major metropolitan locations - Daytona Beach, FL (15 miles) east and Orlando, FL (30 miles) west. As part of the City of DeLand long-range planning objectives, the City of DeLand in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation, completed the Eidson Drive extension in 2023 linking the Northwest Industrial corridor and the DeLand Municipal Airport properties to US Highway 11. This $2 million infrastructure private/public investment provided a northern entrance for commercial and industrial development projects occurring within the city's core manufacturing area. In an effort to attract outside investment, DeLand's city planners are reviewing its land development regulations with a focus in and around the airport and commercially viable areas. “Duke Energy is vital strategic partner in helping attract large-scale commercial businesses to the community,” said Nick Conte, Economic Development Manager for the City of DeLand. “Companies often consider establishing, expanding or relocating their operations to Florida because of the state's economic strength,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “It's a privilege to support innovative strategies that will build on that success and help ensure our economy continues to grow and thrive for generations to come.” The Duke Energy Foundation's Powerful Communities program makes strategic investments to build powerful communities where our natural resources thrive, students can excel, and a talented workforce drives economic prosperity for all. The Foundation annually funds more than $30 million to communities throughout Duke Energy's seven-state service area. About DeLand, Florida: Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, DeLand is known as the “Athens of Florida” due to its rich history and focus on arts and culture. Home to Stetson University, the oldest private college in Florida, and an award-winning downtown, DeLand is not just a place you visit but a community to experience. Duke Energy Foundation The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders. Submitted: 09/06/24 Article By: not specified |