In a recent government meeting, officials reported a surge in interest from national developers in Clay County, particularly along the First Coast Expressway. This growing interest is seen as a positive sign for the county's economic development, with several large landowners and new investors entering the industrial market.

A key highlight was the Peters Creek Industrial Park, which is nearing the selection of a master developer for over 500 acres of industrial property. This site, located on State Road 16, is expected to provide significant opportunities for development, with water and wastewater infrastructure already in place.

BTI Partners, the new owners of Governors Park, are also in discussions to expand their industrial footprint from 100 to 150 acres. They are weighing options on whether to sell individual tracks or partner with a master developer for phased development.

Additionally, the Rookery industrial area has been contracted by a local developer who is already negotiating with potential tenants, indicating a proactive approach to attracting businesses to the region. Meanwhile, a national developer is conducting due diligence for a substantial warehousing project in the Challenger Center area, which could add significant industrial space to the county.

The meeting also provided updates on existing projects. Niagara's expansion has exceeded initial projections, now anticipating 260 jobs and a capital investment of $192 million. Exalt Health is set to begin construction on a $29 million surgical rehab facility, expected to create 125 jobs with competitive salaries.

Construction activity is robust at Spencer Industrial Park, where IKO is progressing rapidly. A live camera feed has been made available to the public to monitor the construction, which has engaged between 175 to 200 workers on-site, with estimates suggesting this could rise to 1,000 as the project advances.

On the infrastructure front, the First Coast Expressway is nearing completion, with the third leg expected to open by mid-2024. The overall project, including a new bridge, is projected for completion by 2030, with ongoing efforts to ensure connectivity and accessibility for future developments.

These developments signal a promising trajectory for Clay County's industrial landscape, with officials optimistic about the potential for job creation and economic growth in the coming years.