North Carolina Railroad initiates industrial site readiness program

The North Carolina Railroad Co. (NCRR) has launched a new economic development program aimed at preserving land for future industrial users.

Dubbed the "Options Program," the initiative is designed to strengthen North Carolina's position in attracting new businesses, NCRR officials said in a press release.

The program will assist local governments and economic development organizations with site control. Along with NCRR’s other economic development programs, Options will help streamline the process for site identification, due diligence studies, development and marketing to expand the pipeline of rail-ready sites, NCRR officials said.

"Speed to market is critical for businesses, and site control is a key factor in meeting that demand," said NCRR Chief Commercial Officer Trish Haver. "NCRR’s Options Program addresses a significant market gap by helping local governments and economic development organizations secure land for future industrial use. This initiative not only unlocks opportunities for grants and other resources but also ensures that sites are rail-ready and competitive, positioning communities for economic growth."