PHCC Has $240 Million Economic Impact

As Pasco-Hernando Community College looks to extend its reach while adding bachelor-level programs, officials are touting just how important the school’s campuses are to the local economy.

According to a newly released study, PHCC’s impact adds up to about $240 million a year in Pasco and Hernando combined. That’s about 2.6 percent of the local economy in the school’s service areas.

The study, performed by Economic Modeling Specialists, was conducted for all 28 colleges within the Florida College System, PHCC included.

“The figure is based on the PHCC payroll and operations spending as well as the accumulated economic impact the college’s graduates have had on the local economy,” a PHCC media release said. “Since the college’s inception in 1972, the college has awarded more than 32,000 degrees and certificates.”

Why the Numbers Matter

The report’s findings are especially important as the State Legislature considers an increase in funding for colleges in the state system. Right now it’s looking like a 3.3 percent increase is in the cards, but Gov. Rick Scott has said he’d like to see that number rise to about 7 percent, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

State college officials are hopeful the final number will fall closer to Scott’s recommendation and they say the study could help to that end.

“Policy makers should know additional funds in the system will lead to more people with certificates and degrees, and put more people in the workforce," Randy Hanna, chancellor of the state Division of Florida Colleges, told the Times.

PHCC has 389 full-time and 336 part-time employees and spends about $31.7 million a year, according to the media release.

The college has campuses in New Port Richey, Spring Hill, Dade City and Brooksville. It’s poised to open a $39 million campus in Wesley Chapel next year and is also in the process of adding bachelor’s degree programs to its lineup.

Do you think PHCC’s growth is important to the Land O' Lakes area? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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