Investment in Opelika’s Industrial Growth
The Opelika Industrial Development Bureau has received a Seeds Grant, part of a broader initiative by Governor Kay Ivey, aimed at enhancing industrial site readiness throughout Alabama.
This grant is part of a larger allocation of $23.5 million from the state’s Industrial Development Authority, which is designed to stimulate economic growth and attract new businesses to Alabama.
Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, emphasized that this grant is a significant investment in Opelika’s future, showcasing a commitment to meaningful infrastructure improvements. She noted, “By increasing the city’s growth capabilities, we will lay the foundation for long-term economic development and enhance Opelika’s competitiveness for new jobs and investments.”
The Seeds Grant will contribute $750,350 in state funding, matched by the city of Opelika, bringing the total investment to $1.5 million. These funds will be utilized for preparing 125 acres of pad-ready sites within the 2,200 acres of the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park.
Fuller expressed pride in partnering with Alabama on this important project.
Northeast Opelika Industrial Park, strategically located along the I-85 Corridor and close to Jackson International Airport, is poised to draw sophisticated manufacturing and industrial investments that want to benefit from the rapid growth in the Southeastern United States.
John Sweatman, Director of Economic Development in Opelika, stated that this investment gives the city a competitive advantage and expressed gratitude to the Alabama Department of Commerce and Governor Ivey for recognizing Opelika’s potential.
The Seeds Grant, which stands for Site Assessment and Economic Development Strategy, is part of a comprehensive statewide initiative led by Ivey to increase the availability of industrial-ready sites and promote long-term economic viability.
