Monroe, a player in the economic development game, hits a stride with its newly minted Certified Smart Site, setting the stage for industrial growth. This certification, a badge of preparation, was achieved via a collaboration of local and state entities including the City of Monroe, and the North Carolina Department of Commerce's Certified Sites Program, complemented by ElectriCities of North Carolina's support. The Monroe Smart Site is now verified as being developed ready, a boon for attracting businesses in tech, advanced manufacturing, and logistics, according to a recent release from the City of Monroe. This status ensures the site ticks all the boxes for infrastructure, transportation links, and construction swiftness.
Location is prime, and the Monroe Opportunity Zone doesn't skimp on this aspect. It sits near US Highway 74, and Interstate 485 provides swift access to the greater Charlotte area, the airport, and regional rail. Moreover, utilities are no concern; this site boasts full service from water and sewer to natural gas, and robust electric infrastructure. This revelation came after a series of meetings in October, where Monroe officials including Mayor Robert Burns and City Manager Mark Watson, showcased the site to visiting reps Will Best and Casey Verburg, from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and ElectriCities, respectively.
“By investing in infrastructure and certification, we are preparing Monroe for the industries of tomorrow. This site strengthens our competitiveness and opens new doors for high quality jobs,” Mayor Robert Burns, remarked on the significance of this development, according to the City of Monroe announcement. This sentiment echoes through the layers of Monroe's administration, with City Manager Mark Watson highlighting how the site is a tangible manifestation of the city's forward-thinking and willingness to welcome long-term investments.
Not just a local triumph, this designation is a strategic win for the broader economic pursuits across the region. Will Best, weighed in on the collaboration, stating, "NC Certified Sites is excited to have the opportunity to work with the City of Monroe and organizations like ElectriCities and their Smart Sites program.” Additionally, from the ElectriCities corner, Casey Verburg sees this as a stepping stone, positing that such certified sites are key in drawing in companies with their readiness and pre-accomplished due diligence, as stated in the release from the City of Monroe.
