Comfort Systems USA Launches New Manufacturing Hub in Pace, Florida

Sterling Way, Pace, Florida, USA - Exciting developments are on the horizon in Pace, Florida, as Comfort Systems USA gears up to start the construction of a new manufacturing facility and corporate office. Situated southwest of Bell Lane and Sterling Way, this project promises a substantial footprint of 68,250 square feet, composed of a 48,750-square-foot manufacturing building and a 19,500-square-foot office space. With a parking lot accommodating 114 vehicles, it will occupy a spacious 16-acre lot, right near the Pace Commons subdivision and Ascend at Woodlands apartment complex.

Pending the final thumbs-up from Santa Rosa County, construction on Sterling Way is set to commence. Notably, this marks Comfort Systems’ third establishment in the Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, following its existing administrative office on Plantation Road and a manufacturing site on North Palafox Street. The company, a powerhouse in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing building systems industry, is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and operates over 170 locations across the U.S.

Expanding Services

As highlighted by Comfort Systems USA, this growing enterprise was publicly launched in June 1997 with just 12 companies. Now, it boasts more than 45 operating companies under its umbrella, driven by a commitment to not only expand services for existing clients but also draw high-quality operations into its fold. In fact, the U.S. has been experiencing a distinct uptick in manufacturing construction, with spending for such projects doubling since late 2021. This surge can be credited to supportive policies like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the CHIPS Act, which collectively incentivize and fund construction efforts, particularly in the tech sectors.

Kim Anderson, the president of Comfort Systems USA Southeast, initially filed plans for this facility back in January, presenting updated proposals before receiving approval on June 19. Anderson’s foresight underlines the company’s strategic approach amidst a booming market for manufacturing construction across the United States.

What It Means for the Community

Local residents can breathe easy, as the construction is not anticipated to disrupt daily life, thanks to the site’s location within an existing industrial area. With the pace of manufacturing construction supported by strong public and private spending, including a remarkable 15% increase in non-residential construction outlays from November 2021 to April 2023, it’s clear the community is poised to benefit from this latest venture.

Comfort Systems USA has a robust portfolio of past projects in the region, including significant developments like the Santa Rosa County Courthouse and the Navy Federal Credit Union’s main campus. As the construction of this new facility rolls out, it further strengthens the company’s presence and commitment to the Florida Panhandle, ensuring skilled jobs and architectural innovation for years to come.