MOBILE — Governor Kay Ivey joined officials in Mobile Wednesday for the groundbreaking of a 500-acre industrial park in Theodore.
RailPort Logistics Mobile was designated as a Platinum CSX Select Site. Ivey said the designation is an example of how the Mobile Chamber, local and state leaders, and industry leaders work together to create jobs in the region.
"The catalyst for this transformation is the substantial investment in upgrading the capabilities of the Port of Mobile," Ivey said. "From the deepening and the widening of the port's shipping channel to modernizing and expanding port infrastructure, there's a united commitment to strengthening the port because it drives our state's economic growth."
"While it's called the Port of Mobile, it's really the Port of Alabama," she said. "The Port of Mobile touches every corner and every industry in our state."
Mobile Chamber of Commerce's Bradley Byrne said the project was the first he worked on as president and CEO of the chamber.
"As the port continues to rapidly grow, Mobile needs millions more square feet of Class A industrial warehouse space to serve the high demand for manufacturing, handling and distribution of products shipped to and from the port," Byrne said. "This 4.7 million square foot project will play a critical role in lessening the predicted deficit of needed warehouse space in Mobile. Its close proximity to the port and CSX rail line set it apart as a prime location to meet the needs of global companies."
CSX Vice President of business development and real estate Christina Bottomley said the area is surrounded by major manufacturers, making it a prime location.
"This site is clearly positioned in an important corridor that promises to bring jobs and economic vitality to the region," Bottomley said. "Thanks to the vision and collaboration between state and local officials and the private sector, this area remains a beacon of economic development."
Ivey said the development will mean more high-paying jobs in south Alabama, with more to come.
"Folks, Alabama's economy is on a roll. During my time as Alabama has seen business investments totaling $49 billion - with a B - dollars which have created some 87,000 new jobs and we're just getting started," Ivey added.
Scannell Properties will develop the property in sections. One hundred forty-nine acres will be set aside for conservation.
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