MiTek has acquired the 111-acre North Tampa Bay Industrial Park Ready Site in Zephyrhills, Florida, where the company plans to invest nearly $80 million in a new 480,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. The plant will produce steel connector plates and building products for the construction industry. This expansion will allow MiTek to retain 125 existing jobs while creating 25 additional positions.
A Plan for Growth
“We’re thrilled to establish a permanent presence in Pasco County and contribute to the region’s growing economy,” said Douglas Krauss, MiTek’s Senior Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Manufacturing. “This location, close to our current facilities, enables us to continue working with our talented team while also expanding our capacity for raw materials and finished products. With a strong customer base in Florida, this facility represents a strategic, long-term investment in MiTek’s future, our customers, and the local community.”
MiTek, a leader in construction technology, is committed to advancing off-site construction practices. The company serves both residential and commercial sectors, offering software, engineered systems, automated solutions, and services that streamline the construction process through a more integrated Design-Make-Build™ approach.
The Zephyrhills site will be developed in three phases. Phase one is already in progress, focusing on civil, geotechnical, environmental, and architectural assessments to determine the optimal development plan for the facility. Phase two, which includes finalizing permits, contracts, and site preparation, is expected to begin soon, with construction slated to break ground in Q4 2024. Phase three will involve purchasing equipment and completing the facility, with operations set to begin in Q1 2026.
Logistical Placement
A key requirement for MiTek’s new facility was direct rail access. The Pasco County site is strategically located near a main CSX rail line, allowing for seamless transportation of materials.
“We’re excited that MiTek has chosen Pasco County as the site for its Southeast Center of Excellence,” said Bill Cronin, President and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council (EDC). “This is the third Ready Site acquired by an industry leader, highlighting the strength of our public-private partnerships.”
The Ready Sites Program, which prepares large tracts of land for industrial development, plays a critical role in creating a portfolio of project-ready locations for targeted industries. The program is supported by the Penny for Pasco initiative.
Where it All Started
On July 22, 2024, the City of Zephyrhills approved a $2.9 million incentives package for MiTek, which includes waivers and reimbursements for transportation impact fees (up to $430,500) and permit fees (up to $432,425). The city will also provide a job creation incentive, offering a cash grant equal to 50% of the ad valorem city property taxes paid over the first 10 years.
“We’re thrilled to have MiTek building their new facility here in Zephyrhills,” said Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson. “The city has worked closely with the Pasco EDC and the Ready Sites Program to ensure that we have viable locations for industrial projects. MiTek’s investment aligns perfectly with our vision for the Zephyrhills Industrial Corridor and will create new job opportunities for our residents. This partnership is a great example of how collaboration can drive economic growth.”
In support of the project, the Pasco County Commission approved a 10-year, performance-based Economic Incentive Agreement, which includes ad valorem tax reimbursement, job creation incentives, and workforce training grants totaling up to $3.15 million.
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