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8/3/2023
Norfolk Southern Railway's industrial development program recently worked with economic developers in Etowah County, Alabama, and at the Gadsden Etowah Industrial Development Authority to develop a 1,100-acre, rail-served industrial site.
The Northeast Alabama Regional (NEAR) Megasite is the largest tract of industrial property in north Alabama, NS officials said in a website post.
Owned by Etowah County, the NEAR Megasite is located along an NS mainline and Interstate 59. A high concentration of automotive factories in the region and proximity to aerospace facilities makes thw site ideal for those industries, as well as metalworking and agricultural opportunities.
"This is all about creating joint opportunities for shared growth and elevating our communities. We’re committed to supporting and furthering rail-served communities and participating in our customer’s near and long-term business goals," said NS Vice President of Real Estate and Development Kathleen Smith.
Initial NS investments included construction of a 70-acre, rail-served, pad-ready site, as well as a railroad crossing and relocation of natural gas lines to the perimeter of the property. During Phase 2, NS donated an additional $3 million to extend the pad to 100 acres and to construct a new connecting road to local thoroughfares.
Recently, the project was approved for a $3 million tax credit, and NS and economic development partners are now entering Phase 3. The NS funding will be used to construct an elevated, 500,000-gallon water tank that connects the site to water and sewer service. The investment also paves the way for additional property enhancements, such as an interstate interchange.
The latest funds push NS’s total commitment to the NEAR Megasite through Growing Alabama to $8.7 million over the past three years.