Unveiling the Transformative Cape Canaveral Project

Project Overview

In a Wednesday afternoon special meeting dedicated to the massive undertaking known as Project Hinton, Space Florida President and CEO Rob Long emphasized its importance. This project is projected to create 600 jobs with an average annual wage of $93,000, making a substantial impact on the local economy.

The Space Florida board of directors unanimously approved grant negotiations with the Florida Department of Transportation. These negotiations will cover up to $50 million in matching grant funds for the high-volume production facility, high bay, and related infrastructure. Additionally, up to $15 million will be allocated for utility improvements such as power modifications and industrial wastewater treatment.

Project Impact

Howard Haug, the executive vice president, treasurer, and chief investment officer of Space Florida, informed board members that this project will enable rapid manufacturing, assembly, and integration of flight hardware. It will significantly increase the volume and mass of payloads being sent into orbit from Florida, enhancing the region's role in the space industry.

During the meeting, the mystery space company behind Project Hinton remained undisclosed. Board members focused mainly on casting their votes after being informed about the project details. In the public realm, SpaceX is also making significant plans. They aim to start launching Starship-Super Heavy rocket systems from the Space Coast by 2026. An environmental study is currently underway for their plan to rebuild Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to accommodate Starship launch and landing operations. The Federal Aviation Administration is also collecting comments on SpaceX's plan to bring Starships to pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, making SpaceX a strong contender for Project Hinton.

Latest News and Contact

For the most up-to-date news from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and NASA's Kennedy Space Center, visit floridatoday.com/space. Rick Neale, the Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY, can be reached at Rneale@floridatoday.com. You can also follow him on Twitter/X at @RickNeale1.

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