2355
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-2355,single-format-standard,mkd-core-2.0.1,mikado-core-2.0.1,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,onyx-ver-3.2, vertical_menu_with_scroll,smooth_scroll,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-6.0.3,vc_responsive

Spec Site Reflects Optimism

September 19, 2003

There’s a lot of dirt being flung at the Lincoln County Industrial Park. Just two weeks after breaking ground on a new RSI facility, officials were back in the park to announce the development of a spec building. “Things keep coming, things keep growing,” said Darrell Gettys, chairman of the Lincoln Economic Development Association. During a time when many industries are folding, Lincoln seems to be prospering. “For us to be running counter to the trend of the economy is just wonderful to the citizens of Lincoln County,” said Jerry Cochrane, chairman of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners. The Keith Corporation, developer of the project, expects to invest $2 million dollars in the building. The 60,650 square foot speculative manufacturing and distribution facility will be constructed on a 10 acre site overlooking U.S. 321. A new road off Cataler Drive will lead to the building. With the ability to expand to 100,000 square feet, the facility will accommodate a variety of manufacturing and distribution uses. Those present didn’t officially announce there was an industry interested in the site, but Gettys said they “plan to have someone in here soon.” Greg Keith, president and CEO of The Keith Corporation, developer of the project, said that in order to develop a spec building, there are four criteria: timing, location, local government and the local economic development director. In Lincoln County’s case, all the factors are there. The location of the Industrial Park is “outstanding,” Keith said. It has access to a transportation corridor, reasonably priced land, available utilities, attractive landscaping and signage and wide streets. Local government officials are progressive and excited about economic development, Keith said. “You guys have proven this time and time again,” he said. Finally, Keith lauded Barry Matherly, executive director of the Lincoln Economic Development Association. “In our opinion, Barry is one of the best in the Carolinas,” he said. This shell building, the third planned for the park but the first to be constructed, is a result of partnerships between The Keith Corporation, Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton, officials said. “This just goes to show you what we can do if we put our heads together,” Mayor Bobby Huitt said.