(1) As used in this section, the term “freight logistics zone” means a grouping of activities and infrastructure associated with freight transportation and related services within a defined area around an intermodal logistics center as defined in s. 311.101(2).

(2) A county, or two or more contiguous counties, may designate a geographic area or areas within its jurisdiction as a freight logistics zone. The designation must be accompanied by a strategic plan adopted by the county or counties. At a minimum, the strategic plan must include, but is not limited to:

(a) A map depicting the geographic area or areas to be included within the designation.

(b) Identification of the existing or planned freight facilities or logistics clusters located within the designated zone.

(c) Identification of existing transportation infrastructure, such as roads, rail, airports, and seaports, within or in close proximity to the proposed freight logistics zone.

(d) Identification of existing workforce availability within or in close proximity to the proposed zone.

(e) Identification of any existing or planned local, state, or federal workforce training capabilities available for a business seeking to locate or expand within the proposed zone.

(f) Identification of any local, state, or federal plans, including transportation, seaport, or airport plans, concerning the movement of freight within or in close proximity to the proposed zone.

(g) Identification of financial or other local government incentives to encourage new development, expansion of existing development, or redevelopment within the proposed zone.

(h) Documentation that the plan is consistent with applicable local government comprehensive plans and adopted long-range transportation plans of a metropolitan planning organization, where applicable.

(3) Projects within freight logistics zones designated pursuant to this section, which are consistent with the Freight Mobility and Trade Plan developed in accordance with s. 334.044(33), may be eligible for priority in state funding and incentive programs relating to freight logistics zones, including applicable programs identified in parts I, III, and V of chapter 288.

(4) When evaluating projects within a designated freight logistics zone for purposes of determining funding or incentive program eligibility under this section, consideration must be given to:

(a) The presence of an existing or planned intermodal logistics center within the freight logistics zone.

(b) Whether the project serves a strategic state interest.

(c) Whether the project facilitates the cost-effective and efficient movement of goods.

(d) The extent to which the project contributes to economic activity, including job creation, increased wages, and revenues.

(e) The extent to which the project efficiently interacts with and supports the existing or planned transportation network.

(f) The amount of investment or commitments made by the owner or developer of the existing or proposed facility.

(g) The extent to which the county or counties have commitments with private sector businesses planning to locate operations within the freight logistics zone.

(h) Demonstrated local financial support and commitment to the project, including in-kind contributions.

History.—s. 1, ch. 2015-106.