NAS Pensacola drives 35 percent of our local economy. It supports more than 53,000 jobs and produces over 6.6 billion dollars in annual economic impact. The payroll alone exceeds 1.3 billion dollars. These numbers matter. They show why protecting compatibility around our bases protects the future of Escambia County.
Clear Direction
The study gives clear direction. It identifies practical actions that strengthen our partnership with the Navy and secure the long-term mission of NAS Pensacola and Corry Station.
Economic Stability
You should support these recommendations because they deliver economic stability.
- Strengthen communication and coordination. A formal partnership committee keeps decisions aligned with military needs and local growth.
- Protect safe air operations. Military Influence Areas and Airfield Planning Districts prevent unsafe development and protect flight paths.
- Support housing solutions. Working with realtors and planners ensures that military families have affordable, compatible places to live.
- Improve public services. Better lighting, stronger STEM opportunities, and infrastructure improvements support both residents and mission readiness.
- Advance resiliency. Redundant power, coastal protections, and federal grants safeguard jobs during storms and long-term climate risks.
- Promote smart land use. Direct new residential growth away from high-noise and safety-sensitive zones to protect quality of life and military operations.
- Reduce noise and safety conflicts. Public notification protocols and continued coordination reduce frustration and keep communities informed.
- Prevent vertical obstructions. Collaboration with developers and the FAA reduces hazards and protects pilot safety.
Protecting Our Economic Engine
The Pensacola Naval Complex includes the “Cradle of Naval Aviation,” the nation’s cyber training center at Corry Station, and key federal missions that depend on safe airspace and predictable land use. When we follow the recommendations, we protect hundreds of millions of dollars in military investment and prevent the risk of mission loss. Communities across the country have lost military assets because they failed to plan. Escambia County cannot afford that mistake.
A Practical Plan
The Compatible Use Study is not a mandate. It is a roadmap created by the Navy, Escambia County, the cities of Pensacola and Gulf Breeze, FloridaWest, the Greater Pensacola Chamber, educators, utilities, state agencies, and residents. It reflects local priorities and real data. Supporting these strategies shows leadership, protects our tax base, and strengthens our relationship with the Department of Defense.
Protecting Families and Our Future
This is about protecting jobs, protecting families, and protecting our future.
Escambia County must adopt these recommendations. You deserve a local government that understands the economic importance of NAS Pensacola. You deserve leaders who support the mission, protect neighborhoods, and keep our communities strong.
Supporting the NAS Pensacola Compatible Use Study is the path forward.
I am Glenn Dorsey, the 2026 Republican Candidate for Escambia County Commissioner District 2 and I will support the recommendations.