Park will offer spaces of 10,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet
Last Friday, officials from the city of Monterey and Putnam County held a spur-of-the-moment meeting to announce the beginning of a new industrial complex in Monterey.
“This project is a major vote of confidence in Monterey and a big step forward for job creation, economic growth, and future investment in our region. With strong partnerships already in place, this industrial park will open new doors for businesses and for Monterey residents to work closer to home. We’re proud to be part of the momentum and look forward to what’s ahead,” according to a statement by the Highlands Economic Partnership (HEP).
Putnam County MAyor Randy Porter says the new park will be great for job creation.
“We are very grateful to Joe and Clint Stephens for bringing the project to Putnam County. The Stephen’s business and the new park will bring jobs and tax revenue to Monterey City and Putnam County,” Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter said.
This project is a major vote of confidence in Monterey, according to Amy New, Chamber CEO.
“… And a big step forward for job creation, economic growth and future investment in our region,” said New. “With strong partnerships already in place, this industrial park will open new doors for businesses and for Monterey residents to work closer to home.”
Here are 4 things to know about the project:
1. Perdue Farms announced its intent to close the production facility in Monterey on March 28, a move that cost the community over 400 jobs.
The loss of one of the main job creators spurred action among city and county officials.
The Monterey closure announcement came on the heels of an agreement between the poultry production king and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and a separate agreement with temporary staffing agency Management Solutions LLC and SMX, LLC (collectively referred to as “SMX”) which “address child labor violations found in an investigation of Perdue’s poultry processing facility in Accomac, Virginia,” according to a release by the USDL.
2. The closure impacted many employees.
Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter quickly deployed the “Workforce Strike Team” to help the dislocated workers find new jobs soon after the closure.
“We live in a very strong community, which I have full faith will come together and show our strength by helping our fellow citizens with job opportunities and resources,” said Foster at the time.
3. The Industrial Complex is to be named The Summit Industrial Park.
It will be located on a 27-acre piece of property on Highway 70 east of exit 301, just off Highway 40. The park will offer spaces of 10,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet. Clint Stephens, a partner in ERP holdings, has said the goal is to build a green industrial space. The first building planned is Stephens Seed and Supply.
4. Completion date is a few years away.
The planned completion date for the park is the fall of 2028. Stephens said the town of Monterey has been cooperative, according to reports. That cooperation has helped expedite the process. Monterey reportedly ran a water line to the site a year ago and is funding a sewer extension, according to Monterey Mayor Alex Garcia.
This is an ongoing story. Check back for updates.
Photo via HEC.
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