News Summary
The Jacksonville City Council has unanimously approved a $3.5 million incentive package for Project Newark, linked to major tobacco manufacturer Swisher. Expected to generate 200 jobs and a $135 million investment, the project aims to enhance smokeless nicotine and caffeine production. It includes a five-year Recapture Enhanced Value Grant to refund some tax revenue. The initiative, addressing economic challenges in Jacksonville, is set to create significant payroll opportunities for local residents. City officials anticipate its positive impact on investment and job growth in the community.
Jacksonville — The Jacksonville City Council officially approved a significant incentive package worth $3.5 million for Project Newark, a planned operation believed to be tied to the major tobacco manufacturer Swisher. The approval was reached during a City Council meeting on August 8, with a unanimous vote of 17-0; however, council members Tyrona Clark-Murray and Rory Diamond were absent during the decision-making process.
Project Newark is anticipated to bring substantial investments and job opportunities to the area, with a total projected capital investment of $135 million. The plans aim to enhance production capabilities for smokeless nicotine and caffeine products, particularly through the brands Rogue and Mojo, which are under Swisher’s umbrella. The incentives, detailed in Ordinance 2025-0531, include a 50%, five-year Recapture Enhanced Value Grant which allows the city to refund a portion of the ad valorem tax revenue generated by Project Newark’s new developments.
As a direct outcome of the investment, Project Newark is expected to generate approximately 200 new jobs for local residents by the end of 2028. Specifically, the plans call for the creation of 100 jobs by December 31, 2027, followed by an additional 100 jobs the following year. The overall annual payroll for these new positions is estimated to reach around $11.12 million, with an average salary projected at $70,000, excluding benefits.
In terms of funding, it is expected that $100 million of the total capital investment will go toward tangible personal property. The development of Project Newark is being closely watched, with the city currently reviewing three building-permit applications related to enhancements at Swisher’s manufacturing plant located in Springfield.
The primary permit under consideration involves an estimated renovation project costing $3.412 million to upgrade Swisher’s APO building. SDS Construction LLC has been designated as the contractor for this main permit, with two additional permits being reviewed for smaller renovation and electrical tasks. Upgrades are aimed at revitalizing facilities located at 459 E. 16th St.
Despite the involvement of Swisher, the city’s executive director of economic development, Ed Randolph, did not confirm the identity of Project Newark when questioned. However, current job listings for automated pouch operations in Jacksonville indicate that Swisher is actively seeking local applicants.
Swisher International boasts a diverse product line aimed at adult consumers, featuring popular brands such as Swisher Sweets, Rogue Holdings, and Drew Estate. Its offerings include smoke-free nicotine products such as tobacco-leaf-free and sugar-free pouches, gum, lozenges, and tablets. The Mojo Balanced Energy Pouches, which incorporate 50 milligrams of coffee-derived caffeine, also contribute to the varied range of products being developed by the company.
Moving forward, the approved incentive package will be forwarded to the Finance Committee for further review and implementation. City officials have recognized that Project Newark will not only enhance investment in the area but also boost job opportunities for residents, particularly in a region that currently faces economic challenges, evidenced by a median household income of $37,000 and a poverty rate of 50%.
As Jacksonville continues its efforts to attract new business developments, Project Newark stands as a promising venture that could yield positive economic outcomes for the community over the next several years.
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Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record: Project Newark Approved for $3.5 Million
- Wikipedia: Swisher International
- News4Jax: Project Newark Eyes $135M Expansion
- Google Search: Project Newark Jacksonville
- Jacksonville Daily Record: Project Newark Seeks City Incentive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Smokeless Nicotine
- News4Jax: Company Eyes $135M Expansion
- Google News: Jacksonville Economic Development
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
