EXPLORATION PARK, Fla.—February 13, 2024—Space Florida announces its annual call for projects to further develop Florida’s spaceport system. The aerospace industry is invited to submit applications for Space Florida and the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Spaceport Improvement Program to help meet current and future commercial and public sector space transportation’s needs. Applications are due Wednesday, March 27, 2024.
“Collaboration with the private space sector is paramount for the evolution of Florida’s spaceport system,” said Rob Long, president and CEO of Space Florida. “We can’t overlook the importance of investing in the foundational infrastructure needed to grow and mature Florida’s space ecosystem. Partnering with dynamic companies to build space transportation infrastructure across the state is not just a strategic choice; it is an imperative. Together, we are not only meeting current demands but unlocking a future where Florida continues to stand as a global leader, driving innovation and excellence in aerospace commerce.”
“Spaceports are an integral part of Florida’s dynamic and diverse transportation network, and investments in the space industry continue to be a priority,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “The Spaceport Improvement Program highlights FDOT’s commitment to bolstering our space infrastructure to ensure Florida remains a global leader in transportation, innovation, and the supply chain.”
Infrastructure has a significant impact on the entire aerospace ecosystem. Investment and installation of the one-mile utility corridor at Space Florida’s Launch and Landing Facility, for example, paved the way for ground leasing opportunities such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
Previous Spaceport Improvement Program projects include SpaceX’s processing and Starship manufacturing facility on Roberts Road; Cecil Spaceport’s improvement to its operations control center and payload process to enable commercial launch operations; Blue Origin’s pad at Launch Complex 36; Boeing’s Starliner assembly; the Airbus Satellite facility; and United Launch Alliance’s improvements to Launch Complex 41 to enhance capabilities for medium/heavy vehicles at Cape Canaveral Spaceport. Last year’s call for projects for space transportation infrastructure improvements was valued at $42 million.
This year, Space Florida will be accepting applications for fiscal years 2026 to 2030. Applications are mandatory before Space Florida can prioritize candidate projects for available funding. More information can be found at https://www.spaceflorida.gov/page/call-for-projects.
Space Florida has a relationship with FDOT focused on jointly planning, developing, and improving statewide aerospace transportation facilities, such as the improvement of space transportation capacity and efficiency. Funding comes from FDOT. In Florida, space travel is designated as an official mode of transportation and the partnership between Space Florida and FDOT is critical to making Florida the global and interplanetary hub for aerospace commerce.
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Media Contact
Alayna Curry, APR
acurry@spaceflorida.gov
