New Bonifay Ag Center could see groundbreaking in less than a month

Momentum is building for the long-awaited agricultural center in Holmes County, as key developments in the project’s planning and coordination come to fruition. This new center is set to become a cornerstone of the local community, providing vital infrastructure and resources for agricultural activities and education.

Jennifer Green, President and CEO of Liberty Partners, the project coordinators, recently shared exciting updates regarding the center’s progress. “We are planning a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate this significant milestone,” Green announced. “We anticipate the presence of several notable figures, including former Florida Senator George Gainer, Florida Representative Shane Abbott, and Senator Jay Trumbull, alongside many others who have played a crucial role in making this project a reality.”

Currently, the project is awaiting the finalization of specifications for the 14,000-square-foot prefabricated metal building that will serve as the core structure of the center. This facility will include interior build-outs for offices, conference rooms, and an open-air arena, designed to support a wide range of functions and events. Once the engineering details are finalized, the County will proceed with the deposit for the building, signaling a significant step forward in the construction process.

The County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has strategically selected Dewberry Engineering to provide construction engineering and inspection (CEI) services for the project. In simpler terms, Dewberry will be responsible for ensuring that all construction work meets the required standards and specifications. This is not the first time Dewberry has worked with the County; they are a trusted partner who has handled other engineering projects, bringing a wealth of experience and familiarity to this new endeavor.

The construction of the new agricultural center will be carried out by Contracting Unlimited, a reputable construction firm based in Chipley. Known for their expertise in building durable and versatile structures, Contracting Unlimited has been selected to bring the vision of a modern, functional agricultural center to life. The new center is expected to provide a range of services and facilities that will benefit the agricultural community and the broader public.

The BOCC’s decision to appoint Dewberry Engineering without a competitive bidding process was facilitated by the County’s ability to select from its pool of current engineers. This approach not only streamlines the process but also reflects the County’s commitment to leveraging existing relationships and ensuring that the project progresses efficiently and cost-effectively.