The industrial landscape of Punta Gorda is on the brink of expansion, following the ceremonial turning of the soil at the Duffie North development site on December 5, an event which marked the beginning of a project anticipated to bulk up the region’s economic muscle with over 100,000 square feet of warehouse and flex space. According to a press release by Charlotte County, the 10-acre industrial brainchild of the Shriteh Family and GCM Contracting Solutions is poised to pump more than 200 new jobs into the local economy when it reaches its full operational stride.
This celebratory kickoff wasn't just a handshake affair; it included a significant gesture of goodwill, the Shriteh Foundation extended a charitable hand, delivering a $30,000 boost to local initiatives like Awaken Outreach Center and Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity which according to the same press release will bolster local food assistance and family services along with fostering affordable housing efforts in the community. Speaking at the event, Taher Shriteh reflected on the deep roots of his family in the area saying, “For more than 25 years, this community has been our home,” and mentioning that through endeavors like Duffie North, they aim to fortify the foundation of Charlotte County for tomorrow’s challenges.
Amidst the chorus of backhoes and cheers at the groundbreaking, Kay Tracy, director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office, underscored the project’s timely significance, envisioning it as a catalyst for the area’s employment and infrastructure. Tracy told gathered attendees and the media “Duffie North not only gives employers the space they need to grow as our workforce expands, it also brings high-wage job opportunities for our residents and strengthens our long-term tax base” which in turn feeds into crucial community services like schools and public safety, as per the Charlotte County website.
For anyone seeking more information on Duffie North or the recent developments at the Punta Gorda Airport Commerce Center, inquiries can be directed to Maria Vastola at 941-764-4942 or via email at [email protected].
