News Summary
Rainey Cawthon Distribution (RCD) has opened a new bulk storage facility in Tallahassee, adding 45,000 gallons of fuel storage capacity. This expansion enhances RCD’s ability to meet the needs of large volume customers, especially during hurricane season. The facility includes generator backup and 24/7 access, reinforcing RCD’s position as a reliable fuel supplier during emergencies. With a 75-year history, RCD aims to support the Big Bend area’s disaster preparedness and response efforts.
TALLAHASSEE – Rainey Cawthon Distribution (RCD), a local provider of bulk fuel supply, has expanded its operations by opening a new bulk storage facility at 4305 Shelfer Road. This move significantly enhances the company’s capacity to serve large volume customers, particularly as hurricane season approaches.
The new facility adds 45,000 gallons of fuel storage capacity aimed at ensuring robust fuel availability for the Big Bend area. This strategic expansion is designed to improve response times and products available during natural disasters, solidifying RCD’s position as a reliable fuel supplier in times of urgent need.
The development follows the sale of RCD’s former plant and office located on Madison Street in CollegeTown. This transition has been described by RCD’s vice president as a “game changer,” allowing the company to enhance its facilities and services effectively.
Operational Benefits
The new bulk storage facility features comprehensive generator backup, ensuring a continuous power supply and fuel accessibility even during outages. A 24/7 card lock system has also been installed, facilitating easier access for clients in emergencies.
RCD maintains a close relationship with the Florida Department of Emergency Management to coordinate responses during crises affecting the Big Bend area. As a significant fuel supplier, the company meets fueling needs for various sectors, including hospitals, farms, and commercial construction businesses, which rely on uninterrupted fuel service for backup generators.
Long-standing Presence
With a history spanning 75 years, RCD has established itself as a trusted name in the fuel distribution industry, operating 10 Shell gas stations throughout Tallahassee. The company’s long-standing commitment to meeting the fueling requirements in the region has only been strengthened by the latest expansion, which aims to increase their client base and improve responsiveness during periods of high fuel demand.
Hurricane Preparedness
The enhanced storage capacity is anticipated to play an essential role during hurricane season, a critical concern for residents and businesses in Florida. With storms being a recurring natural disaster threat, having sufficient fuel supply readily available can significantly impact recovery efforts and overall community resilience.
Charles Rooney, the president of RCD, conveyed pride in the company’s dedication to supporting the Big Bend area’s fueling needs. The new facility is not only a response to increasing demand but also a proactive measure aimed at reinforcing the community’s preparedness for unforeseen circumstances.
Conclusion
The opening of the new bulk storage facility marks a pivotal moment for Rainey Cawthon Distribution. By enhancing fuel storage capabilities, RCD is strengthening its operations and commitment to ensure that the Big Bend area is well-equipped to handle disasters and maintain power during emergencies. This strategic investment underscores RCD’s mission to be a key player in local disaster preparedness and response while continuing to serve a diverse client base.
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Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: New North Florida Fuel Facility
- Wikipedia: Hurricane preparedness
- Dignity Memorial: Nancy Rooney Obituary
- Google Search: Florida fuel supply
- Florida Governor’s Office: Emergency Response Commission
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fuel
- Tallahassee.com: Local Businesses Milestones
- Google News: Florida hurricane preparedness
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
