Pensacola’s economic development continues at full throttle, with Mayor D.C. Reeves providing updates on multiple major projects during his latest appearance on “(We Don’t) Color on the Dog.”
American Magic Doubles Down on Pensacola Commitment
Despite recent uncertainty surrounding America’s Cup participation, American Magic’s leadership flew to Pensacola this week to personally reaffirm their long-term commitment to the city. Mayor Reeves met for nearly three hours on Monday with Doug DeVos, the organization’s principal, along with CEO Mike Cazer and COO Tyson Lamont.
- “I want the citizens to know it was them flying down from Michigan to say, to really reaffirm their commitment in person,” Reeves explained. He added that the project’s success isn’t tied solely to America’s Cup competition.
The mayor outlined two key benefits driving the project forward. First, job creation—the primary reason Triumph Gulf Coast funded the initiative.
- “Not only is that going well, that’s going better than we thought when we signed this contract to begin with,” Reeves stated. American Magic has already hired full-time graduates from Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida, with several currently working on the port.
Second, establishing Pensacola as a premier sailing destination remains the priority. While America’s Cup participation may be uncertain, Reeves assured citizens that alternative plans are in development.
“There are leagues out there; there are major international regattas out there. There are cities that thrive on just hosting those,” he said. “I would expect you’ll be hearing about what those alternative plans are in a matter of weeks, not months.”
- The demand for American Magic’s services has exceeded expectations. “There are clients on this port that we never thought would be here on the forefront of technology, on the forefront of aerospace, on the forefront of marine technology that are already working with American Magic.”
ST Engineering Delivers on Job Promises
The mayor shared impressive quarterly employment data from ST Engineering and VT-MAE, reporting 638 jobs with an average salary of $87,574—well above Pensacola’s median income.
- “At the end of the day, they had a reporting job requirement that they’re exceeding, and they’re at $87,000+ average salary,” Reeves said. “And if you’re going to compare that to other jobs in the city of Pensacola, I think is a pretty good spot to be in right now.”
The third hangar is rapidly taking shape along 12th Avenue, with completion expected soon. Reeves emphasized the importance of having Pensacola State’s A&P school next to the new hangar, calling it “a big attractor of more talented people that you get to see it, and you’re right on the runway.”
Reverb Project Moves Forward with Modifications
The Inspired development team is making adjustments to their Reverb project at Community Maritime Park. The apartment building will be reduced in height by 12-13 feet while maintaining the same number of units and hotel rooms. Additionally, glazing will be added to the northern windows to address aesthetic concerns raised by the Architectural Review Board.
- “Foundation permits are pulled. They continue to follow the timeline of getting the project going,” Reeves confirmed. The developer is in conversations with a “national world-renowned hospitality group” to potentially manage the facilities and is exploring increased conference space.
As Pensacola’s economic momentum builds across multiple sectors—sailing technology, aerospace maintenance, and downtown development—Mayor Reeves believes the city is positioned for sustained growth with projects delivering tangible results.
