Late last year, Suzuki Motor of America announced it had chosen Tampa, Fla., for the corporate headquarters of its Marine Division, as the company restructures its motorcycle/ATV and marine segments.

Business operations are slated to begin in Tampa on April 1.

“This project is an incredible win for our community and further evidence that we can support corporate headquarter operations for global companies,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said in a statement. “Tampa’s business advantages, including its strong public-private partnerships, access to a highly skilled workforce and outstanding quality of life, helped attract Suzuki Marine to our community.”

“We’re thrilled Suzuki Marine has chosen to invest in Hillsborough County,” added Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners chair Pat Kemp. “Its economic impact will be felt throughout our community for years to come.”

Suzuki said it chose Tampa because of its proximity to other marine businesses and to be closer to its Marine Technical Center, which opened last June in Panama City, Fla.

“Tampa is the heart of the marine business in North America, and we look forward to starting our operations here,” said Masahiro Yamamoto, Suzuki Marine USA president.