Motorworks Brewing To Create Full-Production Craft Brewery In Downtown Bradenton, Florida

Area Development News Desk

02/13/2013

Motorworks Brewing plans to create a full-production craft brewery, taproom and beer garden near downtown Bradenton, Florida, with plans to add 30 new jobs over the next five years.

“In addition to a full-production brewery eventually distributing product across the United States, we plan to create a tourist destination featuring brewery tours, a taproom for tasting and a beer garden,” said Denise Tschida, brewery owner. “Motorworks Brewing will be a popular draw along this exciting, growing corridor. Located mid-way between the new downtown Riverwalk and McKechnie Field, the brewery is adjacent to the Village of the Arts, only two blocks from a new public parking garage and easily accessible to downtown.”

“Motorworks Brewing is poised to become part of the exciting story of Bradenton’s revitalization,” Sharon Hillstrom, president and chief executive officer of the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. said. “The EDC was able to bring together all the players who were essential to helping this business locate in Bradenton and invest in our community.”

In addition to the city of Bradenton approving the Brewery, The EDC assisted the company in working with the city and Manatee County Government on permitting and performance-based incentives for the new business.

Frank and Denise Tschida plan to open the taproom this spring with the brewery operation following by fall of this year in the city’s Community Redevelopment District. To accelerate the brewery’s renovation and hiring, the Manatee Board of County Commissioners approved $30,000 in performance-based incentives as the company adds 30 jobs at or above 115 percent of the local area wage of $35,633, over the next five years.

“The estimated economic impact of the brewery in Bradenton over the next five years is expected to reach $1.8 million, contributing significantly to the 14th Street CRA,” said David Gustafson, executive director of Bradenton’s Downtown Development Authority.

“The Manatee Board of County Commissioners was pleased to join with the City of Bradenton on this project to create manufacturing jobs, promote tourism and generate positive economic activity in an area targeted for redevelopment,” said Ed Hunzeker, Manatee County administrator. “Our entire community benefits as downtown Bradenton and other centers of economic activity in the county attract and retain businesses that provide good jobs for local residents.”