PORT ST. JOE, FLORIDA (February 2, 2009) - The Gulf County Tourist Development Council has established the first Gulf County Welcome Center in Port St. Joe. April 28, will mark the first year in operation and the TDC continues to welcome visitors to the bayside facility.

The TDC office, launched in 2000 and led by Executive Director Tim Kerigan, has continuously operated from the Gulf County Court House Annex. Kerigan says the facility better serves the public and the area's growing tourism business as well as provide housing for additional organizations. The Port St. Joe Redevelopment Agency shares the space along with the TDC.

"Our goal is that visitors will make this their first stop to learn about everything our county has to offer from the world famous Dead Lakes of Wewahitchka to historic Port St. Joe and America's #1-ranked beaches of Cape San Blas," said Kerigan. "From one location, they'll be able to see that we have shopping, dining, lodging, biking trails, scuba diving, golf and more. We believe visitors will want to explore our county further, extend their trip longer and return more often when they see all we have to offer. The Center will provide free wireless internet service as well as area maps and brochures. Additionally, our 4,400 sq ft building will host a variety of events open to the public."

The TDC office and Welcome Center is located at 150 Captain Fred's Place, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456. More information is available by calling 850-229-7800.