CHARLOTTE — Duke Energy Carolinas has chosen a 600-acre tract near Salisbury, to participate in the utility’s 2014 Site Readiness Program to prepare the location for potential industrial development, the company said in a news release.
The Carlton-Thomas property is located on Long Ferry Road, approximately 1 mile east of Interstate 85. It has easy access to necessary utilities such as electric, water, natural gas and sewer.
“We believe collaborative partnerships are best way for a community to successfully attract new economic development,” said Robert Van Geons, executive director, Rowan Works Economic Development. “Programs like this exemplify Duke Energy’s commitment to improving our local economy. From site identification to cutting the ribbon on a new facility, we know they are a premier resource we can count on.”
As part of a six-month assessment, Duke Energy has hired McCallum Sweeney, a nationally known consulting firm, to conduct a site study. McCallum Sweeney has been instrumental in many high-profile industrial locations and expansions.
After the property is assessed and its state of readiness has advanced, Duke Energy industry recruiters will actively market it nationwide to companies looking to expand or relocate their operations.
“We are interested in strengthening the communities we serve by attracting new jobs and investments to the county. This prime piece of undeveloped property has a lot of potential,” said Tammy Whaley, Duke Energy economic development manager.
“Our competitive edge comes from offering our customers affordable and reliable electricity. The cost of electricity is a big part of an industry’s budget. Not only are our prices competitive in the Southeast, but they are below the national average,” said Stu Heishman, Duke Energy’s vice president of economic development.
Ideal properties for Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program are 75 acres or larger, served by the utility. A qualified site can be suited for a single, large industrial facility, data center or potential industrial park (multi-tenant site).
Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program is designed to help communities served by the utility compete for new businesses and jobs. The company’s program is nationally recognized. The September edition of Site Selection magazine has named Duke Energy to its annual list of Top 10 Utilities of 2014 in Economic Development.
For more information about Duke Energy’s economic development programs, visit www.considerthecarolinas.com.