Optimism for Etowa County’s Future

Etowa County stands at a pivotal moment, and Senator Andrew Jones is optimistic about what lies ahead.

“There’s a significant shift happening in Etowa County,” noted Jones (R-Centre), representing Senate District 10, which encompasses all of Etowa and Cherokee counties, as well as parts of DeKalb. “Many of our long-standing union employers have left. We were yearning for new opportunities, and I believe that time is beginning to come.”

About 25 years ago, two major industrial employers in the area, Goodyear and Gulf Steel, shut down. Goodyear closed its plant in 1999, leading to the loss of over 1,300 jobs. The following year, Gulf Steel followed suit, impacting workers who earned about $1,250 weekly. This loss spurred local leaders to seek out alternative economic avenues.

The solution became investing in a 1,200-acre megasite located along I-59, complete with rail access and poised for development. The state has allocated $17 million to this site. Jones refers to it as “the prime piece of real estate in the state ready for development.”

“We’ve generated a lot of interest,” he remarked. “But the issue is that some potential employers are too small. Big sites are on the lookout for major employers, targeting around 2,000 workers. You can’t attract smaller businesses.”

This megasite forms part of a larger initiative aimed at revitalizing the county’s economy.

Recently, Gadsden State Community College introduced an advanced manufacturing facility to equip students for well-paying careers in high-demand fields. Earlier this year, the state also pledged $8.5 million to build a Challenger Learning Center to foster student interest in STEM disciplines.

“With these initiatives, we can train workers and ignite student enthusiasm for science and technology, all while having a site ready to host a significant employer, which could truly transform the area,” Jones expressed.

He highlighted that Etowa County previously thrived on traditional industries, but evolving economic conditions necessitated a re-evaluation of the region’s identity.

“If you don’t adapt your business environment and climate, you’re going to fall behind,” Jones said. “Now that these components are aligning, the potential for growth is there, similar to what we’re witnessing in other parts of North Alabama.”

As Jones aptly puts it, “There’s something big happening in Etowa County. It’s worth checking out.”