State and local officials gathered Tuesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new $208 million Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) complex in Tallahassee. The cutting-edge facility aims to transform agricultural research and services in the state, marking a significant milestone for Florida farmers.
A Modern Hub for Agricultural Innovation
The five-story, 250,000-square-foot complex, spanning the size of more than four football fields, will be located at the intersection of Capital Circle and Conner Boulevard. Designed to centralize FDACS operations, the new campus will bring together all 17 department divisions currently spread across various locations in Tallahassee.
“This facility represents the future of agriculture in Florida,” said Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “When it opens in 2027, it will revolutionize our operations and improve our ability to serve farmers and the public.”
The complex will feature state-of-the-art laboratories to advance research in aquaculture, forestry, specialty crop production, and disease-resistant plant breeding. It will also include an IT data center, an evidence room for agriculture law enforcement, and audio-video studios to support the department’s “Fresh from Florida” campaign promoting local produce and seafood.
Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings
The move consolidates nearly 800 FDACS employees from two outdated 75-year-old buildings in downtown Tallahassee and offices along Apalachee Parkway into one location. This streamlining is projected to save the department over $50 million in lease payments over the next 30 years.
“This is about creating efficiencies and leveraging technology to enhance how we operate,” Simpson said.
Support for Farmers and Economic Growth
Florida Senate President Ben Albritton, a fourth-generation citrus farmer, praised the facility’s potential to assist farmers with innovative solutions. The new laboratories will enable rapid analysis of plant samples to address issues such as crop disease.
“To partner with the department and build solutions for our farmers—it’s a game-changer,” Albritton said.
The project is also expected to provide a boost to the local economy, generating 300 construction jobs. Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey expressed gratitude for keeping the department’s operations and jobs in the region.
“Commissioner Simpson could have taken these jobs anywhere in Florida, but he chose to expand here in Tallahassee,” Dailey said. “This is a great day for our city.”
Funding and Timeline
Legislators approved initial funding of $1 million in 2022 to begin planning the project, followed by $31 million in 2023 for design work. This year, $80 million was allocated to start construction. With half of the funding secured, the remaining amount is expected to be appropriated in 2025.
Construction is slated for completion by the end of 2027, paving the way for a transformative era for Florida agriculture.
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