By Staff Report
The City of Bonifay voted on Monday, April 20, to officially assume the leading role in the Highway 79 Corridor Project, marking a step forward in regional economic development efforts that have been years in the making.
Originally established through a partnership between Holmes County, Washington County, and the City of Bonifay, the Highway 79 Corridor Authority was created to develop critical infrastructure aimed at attracting new business and industry to the area. The corridor spans portions of both counties and the city, focusing on long-term growth through utility expansion and strategic planning. This transition follows an agreement approved through the Florida Department of Commerce under the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund.
The project has already received significant investment, including more than $1.8 million in grant funding for infrastructure development. As part of the grant requirements, the corridor is expected to generate at least 219 new jobs and bring in a minimum of $10 million in private capital investment within the next decade.
Officials say the shift in leadership will streamline operations and improve efficiency as the project continues to move forward. They also state that the goal remains the same: to create a development-ready corridor that can support new businesses, expand the local economy, and provide long-term benefits for the region.
“With infrastructure now largely in place and oversight consolidated under the City of Bonifay, the Highway 79 Corridor is positioned to play a key role in shaping the future of economic growth in this area. We see progress daily, and are excited for what’s ahead,” said Bonifay Mayor Larry Cook.
AMBER PATINO 