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BREAKING NEWS

For Immediate Release

Contact for more information: Robert Ingram, President/CEO, 251-947-2445             

            CATAWBA/CROSBY MEGA-SITE RECEIVES CERTIFICATION 

ROBERTSDALE, AL—Approximately three years ago an effort began to achieve mega-site certification on over 3000 acres in north Baldwin County.  The process began with the identification of the potential site by McCallum Sweeney Consulting, under contract with CSX Transportation, and entailed the development of hundreds of pages of documentation and hundreds of man hours of analysis.  On Tuesday, May 31, 2011, we received our official notice of certification, which is attached along with quotes from local and State leaders who have supported us in the process.  This would not have happened without the total support of the Baldwin County Commission who played a leading role in the certification process from the beginning until the end.

Quotes from State and Local Officials regarding Mega Site Certification 

Governor Robert Bentley:

 The demand for certified industrial sites is growing. Having a CSX Mega Site Certification for this property will allow both Alabama and Baldwin County to be winners in the highly competitive process of economic development. It also provides Alabama a competitive advantage in attracting quality jobs and investment for our residents.

 Seth Hamlett, Alabama Development Office Director:

 With this certified site, Alabama will take full advantage of an important asset and opportunity. In today’s competitive business environment, companies need to be up and running as quickly as possible. This certification offers companies a low-risk option to help them make a fast decision and get their facilities up and running quickly.

 Bill Taylor, Economic Development Partnership of Alabama:

 This is indeed one of the best mega sites in the South East. Great location for any large operation coupled with an outstanding quality of life. That’s a winning combination.

 Julie Magee, Alabama Commissioner of Revenue:

 This project is a prime example of the importance Governor Bentley has instilled in his administration to create Alabama jobs. From day one every cabinet member has focused on doing his or her part to create jobs. The Departments of Transportation, Finance, Conservation and Natural Resources, and Revenue, along with Governor Bentley’s Legal Office, have been actively working with Baldwin County officials who have done a phenomenal job putting this project together. This will have an important economic impact on Alabama’s future.

 John Cooper, Alabama Department of Transportation:

 ALDOT is pleased to be a cooperating agency. We are looking forward to working with the Baldwin County Commission and the other agencies to bring this project to fruition.

 Commissioner Frank Burt, Baldwin County Commission:

 The certification of the 3000 acre Catawba/Crosby Mega-site in north Baldwin County is a huge step forward in our efforts to bring new, high paying jobs to Baldwin County. The site is one of only a few certified mega-sites of its size in the United States and its certification provides a strong competitive advantage for both Baldwin County and the State of Alabama. The Baldwin County Commission appreciates the great support we have received from Governor Bentley as well as other State and local leaders and we look forward to the day that we can all stand together and celebrate the creation of a new significant economic anchor on the site.

 Mayor Jamie Tillery, City of Bay Minette:

 This Mega Site Certification encourages a renaissance for industrial opportunities and prospects that provides the ultimate and optimal site for prosperous manufacturing. The partnership of the City, the State of Alabama, BCEDA and the Baldwin County Commission will promote industry and jobs that will improve the quality of life and drive opportunities for a positive change for our future.

 Clark Robertson, CSX Transportation:

 CSX is pleased and excited to welcome the Catawba/Crosby Site near Bay Minette, Alabama as the newest McCallum Sweeney Consulting’s Certified Mega Site. CSX is proud to have helped sponsor this certification and look forward to working in partnership with the state, county, and Bay Minette officials to bring new projects to this area. Local officials are to be congratulated on their significant dedication and effort to bring this milestone to fruition.

 Stan Szapiel, Chairman of the Board, Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance: 

The certification of the 3000 plus acre Catawba/Crosby Mega-site near Bay Minette will benefit all of Baldwin County.  The high paying jobs which will eventually be created on the site will generate new disposable income that will circulate throughout the county and region.  As Chairman of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance I am proud of the role that our staff played in this effort and appreciates the great support from all public and private sector leaders.

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