Eckler Industries, Inc., a provider of restoration parts and accessories for classic and enthusiast automobiles, will build its international headquarters and parts distribution facility on a site along Grissom Parkway in Titusville, Florida.

The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast said the $9.5 million project, previously known as Project Circle, solidifies the presence of a 41-year stalwart of North Brevard’s economy while retaining 150 existing jobs. The company also plans to create 65 new jobs as it implements its growth plans over the next four years. The Brevard County Commission and Titusville City Council both approved ad valorem tax abatements for the expansion.

The new facility will be home to Eckler’s business office and warehouse operations, as well as a call center. The company expects the new facilities to play a significant role in continuing its growth rate and helping achieve its goal of doubling sales by 2018.

“We like the business climate here,” said Eckler’s CEO Matt Jordan. “We’re delighted that we were able to work with Brevard County, others in local government and key community economic development organizations to ensure we were able to find a good location and retain the staff we rely on so much.”

The company, which relocated from Rockford, Illinois, to Titusville in 1972, had identified a site for its expansion in a neighboring county but was recruited to the Grissom Parkway location through the combined efforts of the City of Titusville, the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority, the EDC, the Brevard County Manager’s Office, the City of Titusville Planning and Zoning Office, Titusville-based Space Coast Economic Development Commission, and Brevard Planning and Development.

The company’s long-term presence in Titusville will add to the stability of the city’s economy even as leaders and organizations continue their work to strengthen it, Titusville Mayor Jim Tulley said. “We are pleased that the Eckler’s has chosen to remain in Titusville for the expansion and consolidation of their nationally recognized automotive parts distribution company. With the addition of 65 new employees, the company recognizes one of the many benefits of growing business in a community with an exceptional workforce. The City of Titusville supports and encourages the expansion of local companies, and we are extremely proud that Eckler’s will continue to call Titusville home.”

The project will generate a nearly $5.5 million economic impact annually when fully operational. It also enhances the economic diversity on the Space Coast, noted Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast.

“We have worked hard to develop a broad economy that has strength across multiple areas,” Weatherman said. “The decision by Matt and the leadership team at Eckler’s to stay and expand on the Space Coast adds to that strength while providing a welcome boost to North Brevard.”