FL H0257

Creates s. 311.103, Florida Statutes, authorizing a county or two or more contiguous counties to designate geographic areas within their jurisdiction as freight logistics zones, defined as groupings of activities and infrastructure associated with freight transportation around an intermodal logistics center.

Requires designation to be accompanied by a strategic plan that includes a zone map, identification of existing or planned freight facilities, transportation infrastructure (roads, rail, airports, seaports), workforce availability, workforce training capabilities, local/state/federal freight plans, and local government incentives.

Projects within designated freight logistics zones that are consistent with the state Freight Mobility and Trade Plan may be eligible for priority in state funding and incentive programs, including applicable programs under parts I, III, and V of chapter 288.

Establishes evaluation criteria for zone projects including strategic state interest, cost-effective movement of goods, economic activity (job creation, wages, revenues), private sector investment commitments, interaction with the transportation network, and demonstrated local financial support.

Effective date is July 1, 2015.