Thursday, August 6, 2009
Monday, July 6, 2009
Devon Office Furniture to Relocate in Chesterfield County
The Chesterfield County Economic Development Board today announced that Devon Office Furniture will relocate its operations to Chesterfield, South Carolina. The relocation is expected to generate up to 20 new jobs in the next five years. The company is a global office furniture manufacturer and distributor.
"We are pleased to relocate our operations to Chesterfield County, and specifically in the Town of Chesterfield. The area has an excellent workforce and positive business environment. Devon Office Furniture will soon have the majority of its assembly and domestic distribution under one roof. We appreciate all the support received from state and local officials," said Terry Farish, Vice President of Operations for Devon Office Furniture.
Devon Office Furniture is subsidiary of the Devon International Group (DIG). DIG is a
multinational group owned by John A. Bennett, M.D. that employs approximately 200 people worldwide.
DIG is made up of three sectors: healthcare, technology, and international business The healthcare sector comprises Devon Health Services, Devon Robotics, Devon Medical and SMI Health Media. Devon IT and CentriServ are the technology companies; and Devon International and Devon Office Furniture make up the international business sector. DIG's headquarters are in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and the Group has international offices in Ireland, United Kingdom, Lithuania, India and China.
Devon Office Furniture is relocating the bulk of its domestic operations from New York, Florida,Texas and Pennsylvania to Chesterfield, SC. The former Chesterfield Manufacturing Company Distribution Center building on Zoar Road will house the new operations. Minor assembly and much of domestic distribution will be processed through the 80,000 square foot Chesterfield facility. Logistics, including a great highway network and port access were essential for this project.
"Devon's decision to expand operations in Chesterfield County is a positive indication that our business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and renewed focus on economic development are working to encourage growth, even in these challenging economic times. The County and Town will benefit from this investment now and in the future," said Matt Rivers, Chairman,Chesterfield County Council.
"The Town of Chesterfield strives to ensure that our town will always be attractive to both industry and our citizens," said Chesterfield Mayor John Douglas. "Obviously we're pleased with the jobs and investment and feel extremely fortunate to welcome our new corporate neighbor with such strong international ties. Bringing new jobs to an empty industrial building is real progress towards a more revitalized Chesterfield," added Douglas.
Devon Office Furniture will begin hiring for the positions right away. Anyone interested in applying or getting more information on the jobs available can contact the Terry Farish at tfarish@devonofficefurniture.com or fax (610) 650-9960.
"We are pleased to relocate our operations to Chesterfield County, and specifically in the Town of Chesterfield. The area has an excellent workforce and positive business environment. Devon Office Furniture will soon have the majority of its assembly and domestic distribution under one roof. We appreciate all the support received from state and local officials," said Terry Farish, Vice President of Operations for Devon Office Furniture.
Devon Office Furniture is subsidiary of the Devon International Group (DIG). DIG is a
multinational group owned by John A. Bennett, M.D. that employs approximately 200 people worldwide.
DIG is made up of three sectors: healthcare, technology, and international business The healthcare sector comprises Devon Health Services, Devon Robotics, Devon Medical and SMI Health Media. Devon IT and CentriServ are the technology companies; and Devon International and Devon Office Furniture make up the international business sector. DIG's headquarters are in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and the Group has international offices in Ireland, United Kingdom, Lithuania, India and China.
Devon Office Furniture is relocating the bulk of its domestic operations from New York, Florida,Texas and Pennsylvania to Chesterfield, SC. The former Chesterfield Manufacturing Company Distribution Center building on Zoar Road will house the new operations. Minor assembly and much of domestic distribution will be processed through the 80,000 square foot Chesterfield facility. Logistics, including a great highway network and port access were essential for this project.
"Devon's decision to expand operations in Chesterfield County is a positive indication that our business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and renewed focus on economic development are working to encourage growth, even in these challenging economic times. The County and Town will benefit from this investment now and in the future," said Matt Rivers, Chairman,Chesterfield County Council.
"The Town of Chesterfield strives to ensure that our town will always be attractive to both industry and our citizens," said Chesterfield Mayor John Douglas. "Obviously we're pleased with the jobs and investment and feel extremely fortunate to welcome our new corporate neighbor with such strong international ties. Bringing new jobs to an empty industrial building is real progress towards a more revitalized Chesterfield," added Douglas.
Devon Office Furniture will begin hiring for the positions right away. Anyone interested in applying or getting more information on the jobs available can contact the Terry Farish at tfarish@devonofficefurniture.com or fax (610) 650-9960.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Johnson Controls Announces Plan to Locate New Facility in Florence County
Florence County Economic Development Partnership (FCEDP) and North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) announced today that Johnson Controls, Inc. plans to build a new battery recycling facility in Florence, S.C. The facility is expected to represent a capital investment of more than $100 million and create 250 new jobs.
The announcement was made by Alex Molinaroli, President for Johnson Controls Power Solutions, along with South Carolina State Senators Hugh K. Leatherman and Yancey McGill; Rusty Smith, Chairman of Florence County Council; Frank James, Vice Chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership; Hank Taylor, Senior Project Manager with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and other state and local leaders.
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson Controls is a global Fortune 100 company with leadership positions in automotive interiors, building efficiency, and power solutions. The company already provides more than 1,000 jobs in the nearby region, including at its distribution center in Florence and a manufacturing facility in Oconee.
Johnson Controls’ Power Solutions business is the world’s leading supplier of automotive batteries, the leading independent provider of hybrid battery systems, and also a recognized leader in closed-loop, automotive battery recycling. Johnson Controls has been instrumental in making automotive batteries the most recycled consumer product in the United States.
“The proposed Florence facility will be the most innovative battery recycling operation in the world,” said Alex Molinaroli. “Our closed-loop system is state-of-the-art in terms of environmental controls, conforming well within all federal, state and local environmental regulations.”
"In today's highly competitive global economy, our state's ability to attract new jobs and investment is critical. Today's announcement is certainly an indication of our success in that regard. As well, this news is a reminder of the importance of focusing our efforts on improving the business climate here with fundamental reforms that encourage economic growth. We remain committed to continuing these efforts to encourage growth and create opportunity for more South Carolinians while helping companies like Johnson Controls be more competitive during these challenging times," said Gov. Mark Sanford.
“Johnson Controls is a world-class company and a leader in the automotive supply sector and in providing energy efficient products and services for buildings. Johnson Controls has previously invested in South Carolina, and it is gratifying to see them do so again. The company’s decision to locate its new battery recycling plant in South Carolina speaks to the strength of our workforce, the attractiveness of our business-friendly climate and our excellent market access. We appreciate the commitment Johnson Controls has made to the Palmetto State with this announcement,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“We welcome the expansion of Johnson Controls’ presence in the Pee Dee,” said State Senator Hugh K. Leatherman. “We welcome the jobs and the investment, but most particularly we welcome this great global company that has already demonstrated that it is a solid citizen of our state.”
Johnson Controls’ new facility in Florence will be located on a 270-acre site that is near other major corporate leaders such as Roche Carolina, DuPont, and Smurfit-Stone. The property is off US-76 on Paper Mill Road, and the company plans to develop approximately 36 acres for its facility and parking, leaving the remaining acreage undeveloped. Portions of the site will be permanently protected through a conservation easement.
During today’s announcement, Molinaroli referenced his own upbringing in South Carolina. “I grew up in Charleston and I graduated from USC. I know first-hand that South Carolinians care about hard work, giving back to their communities, and protecting their natural environment. We share those commitments. That’s why our company feels at home here.”
Molinaroli noted that Johnson Controls will be hosting a public meeting to discuss the facility in greater detail, answer questions and get feedback from the public. The Public Meeting will be held Monday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology. “We want to be good neighbors and good citizens,” said Molinaroli. “The best way to do that is by engaging the public throughout our planning process. This will be the first of what we hope will be a series of meetings with the public.”
Dr. Charles Gould, chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership, praised Johnson Controls’ expansion decision and the public process described by Molinaroli. “This company is committed to doing things right. We are going to do everything we can to make this important expansion a great success. The collaboration exhibited by all parties involved in this project exemplifies what teamwork is all about.”
“Having a global leader like Johnson Controls make another significant investment in this community reaffirms the qualified and diverse skill-sets of our great citizens, and the pro-business climate that continues to attract world-class companies” said Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith. “We are excited and pleased to continue the outstanding partnership that has been developed between Florence County and Johnson Controls.”
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is the global leader that brings ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of 140,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide to customers. For additional information, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com.
The announcement was made by Alex Molinaroli, President for Johnson Controls Power Solutions, along with South Carolina State Senators Hugh K. Leatherman and Yancey McGill; Rusty Smith, Chairman of Florence County Council; Frank James, Vice Chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership; Hank Taylor, Senior Project Manager with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and other state and local leaders.
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson Controls is a global Fortune 100 company with leadership positions in automotive interiors, building efficiency, and power solutions. The company already provides more than 1,000 jobs in the nearby region, including at its distribution center in Florence and a manufacturing facility in Oconee.
Johnson Controls’ Power Solutions business is the world’s leading supplier of automotive batteries, the leading independent provider of hybrid battery systems, and also a recognized leader in closed-loop, automotive battery recycling. Johnson Controls has been instrumental in making automotive batteries the most recycled consumer product in the United States.
“The proposed Florence facility will be the most innovative battery recycling operation in the world,” said Alex Molinaroli. “Our closed-loop system is state-of-the-art in terms of environmental controls, conforming well within all federal, state and local environmental regulations.”
"In today's highly competitive global economy, our state's ability to attract new jobs and investment is critical. Today's announcement is certainly an indication of our success in that regard. As well, this news is a reminder of the importance of focusing our efforts on improving the business climate here with fundamental reforms that encourage economic growth. We remain committed to continuing these efforts to encourage growth and create opportunity for more South Carolinians while helping companies like Johnson Controls be more competitive during these challenging times," said Gov. Mark Sanford.
“Johnson Controls is a world-class company and a leader in the automotive supply sector and in providing energy efficient products and services for buildings. Johnson Controls has previously invested in South Carolina, and it is gratifying to see them do so again. The company’s decision to locate its new battery recycling plant in South Carolina speaks to the strength of our workforce, the attractiveness of our business-friendly climate and our excellent market access. We appreciate the commitment Johnson Controls has made to the Palmetto State with this announcement,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“We welcome the expansion of Johnson Controls’ presence in the Pee Dee,” said State Senator Hugh K. Leatherman. “We welcome the jobs and the investment, but most particularly we welcome this great global company that has already demonstrated that it is a solid citizen of our state.”
Johnson Controls’ new facility in Florence will be located on a 270-acre site that is near other major corporate leaders such as Roche Carolina, DuPont, and Smurfit-Stone. The property is off US-76 on Paper Mill Road, and the company plans to develop approximately 36 acres for its facility and parking, leaving the remaining acreage undeveloped. Portions of the site will be permanently protected through a conservation easement.
During today’s announcement, Molinaroli referenced his own upbringing in South Carolina. “I grew up in Charleston and I graduated from USC. I know first-hand that South Carolinians care about hard work, giving back to their communities, and protecting their natural environment. We share those commitments. That’s why our company feels at home here.”
Molinaroli noted that Johnson Controls will be hosting a public meeting to discuss the facility in greater detail, answer questions and get feedback from the public. The Public Meeting will be held Monday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology. “We want to be good neighbors and good citizens,” said Molinaroli. “The best way to do that is by engaging the public throughout our planning process. This will be the first of what we hope will be a series of meetings with the public.”
Dr. Charles Gould, chairman of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership, praised Johnson Controls’ expansion decision and the public process described by Molinaroli. “This company is committed to doing things right. We are going to do everything we can to make this important expansion a great success. The collaboration exhibited by all parties involved in this project exemplifies what teamwork is all about.”
“Having a global leader like Johnson Controls make another significant investment in this community reaffirms the qualified and diverse skill-sets of our great citizens, and the pro-business climate that continues to attract world-class companies” said Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith. “We are excited and pleased to continue the outstanding partnership that has been developed between Florence County and Johnson Controls.”
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is the global leader that brings ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of 140,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide to customers. For additional information, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com.
Friday, May 29, 2009
"Interchange of Hope" to Provide Thousands of Jobs for 10 Years
SC Department of Transportation approves funding to purchase land for I-73 corridor.
Efforts to secure federal funding for the South Carolina section of the proposed I-73 corridor, officially named the "Interchange of Hope," received a big boost last week as the South Carolina Department of Transportation approved funding to purchase land necessary to begin its construction.
Congress designated the I-73 project as a "Highway of National and Regional Significance," in 2005 because of the crucial impact it will have on the regional economy. According to a report released earlier this year authored by economists at Coastal Carolina University, construction on the interchange will create more than 7,500 jobs throughout the ten years the project takes to complete.
The University report also indicated that the interchange would grow tourism at the famed Myrtle Beach and be a boon to area economic development efforts, bringing much needed jobs to the region's hardworking but underemployed workforce.
"This is precisely the type of job-creating stimulus necessary to get our economy back on track," said South Carolina's Senate Finance Committee Chairman Sen. Hugh Leatherman (R-Florence and Darlington). "Our state and federal leaders are working to bring the jobs back to communities all across the country. Columbia's decision to approve funding for the 'Interchange of Hope' is a good first step towards fulfilling that goal, and we now hope that Washington will follow suit."
"The I-73 project has been one of our organization's key focuses for some time," said Sen. J. Yancey McGill (D-Florence, Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg) Chairman of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA), an economic development organization encompassing South Carolina's northeast region. "I am glad to see that progress is being made on making the 'Interchange of Hope' a reality, but now is not the time to rest on our laurels."
Efforts to secure federal funding for the South Carolina section of the proposed I-73 corridor, officially named the "Interchange of Hope," received a big boost last week as the South Carolina Department of Transportation approved funding to purchase land necessary to begin its construction.
Congress designated the I-73 project as a "Highway of National and Regional Significance," in 2005 because of the crucial impact it will have on the regional economy. According to a report released earlier this year authored by economists at Coastal Carolina University, construction on the interchange will create more than 7,500 jobs throughout the ten years the project takes to complete.
The University report also indicated that the interchange would grow tourism at the famed Myrtle Beach and be a boon to area economic development efforts, bringing much needed jobs to the region's hardworking but underemployed workforce.
"This is precisely the type of job-creating stimulus necessary to get our economy back on track," said South Carolina's Senate Finance Committee Chairman Sen. Hugh Leatherman (R-Florence and Darlington). "Our state and federal leaders are working to bring the jobs back to communities all across the country. Columbia's decision to approve funding for the 'Interchange of Hope' is a good first step towards fulfilling that goal, and we now hope that Washington will follow suit."
"The I-73 project has been one of our organization's key focuses for some time," said Sen. J. Yancey McGill (D-Florence, Georgetown, Horry and Williamsburg) Chairman of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA), an economic development organization encompassing South Carolina's northeast region. "I am glad to see that progress is being made on making the 'Interchange of Hope' a reality, but now is not the time to rest on our laurels."
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Trinity Iron Works Announces New Facility in Georgetown County
The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Georgetown County today announced that Trinity Iron Works will locate its new facility in Georgetown County. The $500,000 investment is expected to generate 15 new jobs.
“We are pleased to locate our new operations in Georgetown County. This new facility will allow us to meet the growing demand from our customers and reach new markets. Georgetown County provides us with an excellent business environment, with a skilled workforce, terrific market access with the Port of Georgetown and close proximity to the Port of Charleston. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Mike Herron, owner of Trinity Iron Works.
Trinity Iron Works’ new operations will consist of its structural steel fabrication and erection operations and its pre-engineered metal buildings operations. The company serves customers in eastern North Carolina and South Carolina, and is expanding into the Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama markets.
“Trinity Iron Works is a growing provider of pre-engineered metal buildings and a structural steel manufacturer. The company’s decision to locate its new operations in South Carolina is a testament that our business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are working to attract new investments and job opportunities to our state. Thanks to the team effort of state and local officials, Georgetown County will benefit from this investment,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“Trinity Iron Works will become an important part of our local business community and we are pleased to see them invest in our area. We congratulate them on their success in these difficult economic times. Georgetown County is committed to working with new and existing businesses to bring investment and job opportunities to the residents of our county,” said Johnny Morant, Georgetown County Council Chairman.
For more information about Trinity Iron Works, please visit www.trinityironworks.net.
“We are pleased to locate our new operations in Georgetown County. This new facility will allow us to meet the growing demand from our customers and reach new markets. Georgetown County provides us with an excellent business environment, with a skilled workforce, terrific market access with the Port of Georgetown and close proximity to the Port of Charleston. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Mike Herron, owner of Trinity Iron Works.
Trinity Iron Works’ new operations will consist of its structural steel fabrication and erection operations and its pre-engineered metal buildings operations. The company serves customers in eastern North Carolina and South Carolina, and is expanding into the Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama markets.
“Trinity Iron Works is a growing provider of pre-engineered metal buildings and a structural steel manufacturer. The company’s decision to locate its new operations in South Carolina is a testament that our business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are working to attract new investments and job opportunities to our state. Thanks to the team effort of state and local officials, Georgetown County will benefit from this investment,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“Trinity Iron Works will become an important part of our local business community and we are pleased to see them invest in our area. We congratulate them on their success in these difficult economic times. Georgetown County is committed to working with new and existing businesses to bring investment and job opportunities to the residents of our county,” said Johnny Morant, Georgetown County Council Chairman.
For more information about Trinity Iron Works, please visit www.trinityironworks.net.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Roche Carolina Celebrates Completion of Expansion Project in Florence County
The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Florence County Economic Development Partnership today celebrated the completion of a $60 million plant expansion at Roche’s Florence facility. The dedication ceremony held today at Roche Carolina was attended by over 200 local stakeholders and Roche employees. Among the special guests in attendance was William M. Burns, the Chief Executive Officer of the Pharmaceutical Division of Roche. The expansion has allowed the company to double the facility’s manufacturing capacity. Roche Carolina employs more than 300 people at its Florence County operations.
“The decision to make this expansion investment in Florence reflects positively on our past achievements while the successful completion and startup of this production facility demonstrates the high quality of the workforce in the area. Both of these speak well about the business climate in Florence,” said Dr. Hans Groeger, Site Head Roche Carolina.
“Roche is one of the world’s largest healthcare companies and a leader in research-focused healthcare with strengths in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. Roche Carolina has been an important part of South Carolina’s business community for a number of years and the company’s decision to further expand its Florence operations signifies a continued commitment to our state. Today’s ceremony is also a reminder that our focus to enhance and maintain a business-friendly environment is working to attract new investment and encourage growth among our existing businesses. Thanks to the team effort of state and local officials, Florence County will benefit from this investment now and in the future,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“Roche’s expansion demonstrates their commitment to Florence County and dedication to help Florence continue to grow and prosper economically,” stated Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith. “I am delighted that yet another existing business is reinvesting and expanding in our county.”
“As a major player in the worldwide pharmaceutical industry, we are excited Roche chose to expand their roots in our region. Roche has been an incredible corporate citizen for many years; they consistently assist us in the recruiting of new industries to the area by selling the Florence community as a great place to do business,” said Dr. Charles Gould, Florence County Economic Development Partnership chairman.
Roche Carolina Inc. is a strategic process development and manufacturing facility in the pharmaceutical division of its parent company, Roche. Based in Basel, Switzerland, Roche is a leading healthcare company with a broad spectrum of products and services. The company has been discovering and providing novel healthcare products to the world for more than 100 years. For more information, please visit www.rochecarolina.com.
“The decision to make this expansion investment in Florence reflects positively on our past achievements while the successful completion and startup of this production facility demonstrates the high quality of the workforce in the area. Both of these speak well about the business climate in Florence,” said Dr. Hans Groeger, Site Head Roche Carolina.
“Roche is one of the world’s largest healthcare companies and a leader in research-focused healthcare with strengths in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. Roche Carolina has been an important part of South Carolina’s business community for a number of years and the company’s decision to further expand its Florence operations signifies a continued commitment to our state. Today’s ceremony is also a reminder that our focus to enhance and maintain a business-friendly environment is working to attract new investment and encourage growth among our existing businesses. Thanks to the team effort of state and local officials, Florence County will benefit from this investment now and in the future,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“Roche’s expansion demonstrates their commitment to Florence County and dedication to help Florence continue to grow and prosper economically,” stated Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith. “I am delighted that yet another existing business is reinvesting and expanding in our county.”
“As a major player in the worldwide pharmaceutical industry, we are excited Roche chose to expand their roots in our region. Roche has been an incredible corporate citizen for many years; they consistently assist us in the recruiting of new industries to the area by selling the Florence community as a great place to do business,” said Dr. Charles Gould, Florence County Economic Development Partnership chairman.
Roche Carolina Inc. is a strategic process development and manufacturing facility in the pharmaceutical division of its parent company, Roche. Based in Basel, Switzerland, Roche is a leading healthcare company with a broad spectrum of products and services. The company has been discovering and providing novel healthcare products to the world for more than 100 years. For more information, please visit www.rochecarolina.com.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Aviation Week Article Features Horry County
Myrtle Beach Adds Air Service, Facilities
Allegiant Air is entering the Myrtle Beach, S.C., market, the eighth airline to serve Myrtle Beach International Airport, which has become the hub of a model for redevelopment of a former military base.
The airport itself is expanding, with an 11,000-square-foot, $4.5 million general aviation terminal about half completed and scheduled for opening this fall. Expansion will continue as the Horry County-owned airport is laying plans to replace its commercial terminal with a new facility to be constructed adjacent to the current one. initial plans call for doubling the number of gates to 14, and the airport is also extending its 9,500-foot runway by 1,000 feet.
Las Vegas-based Allegiant will operate twice weekly from Huntington, W. Va., and is adding service from Allentown, Pa. The carrier joins Continental, Delta, Spirit, Northwest, Direct Air, US Airways and United Express as Myrtle Beach clients.
The leisure-oriented Myrtle Beach area has been a strong stimulus for airport growth and the redevelopment of the nearly 4,000-acre former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base.
"More than 80% of the former base property has been sold to private groups or developed, or [is] in the process of redevelopment by institutions," says Hugh Owns, president/CEO of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corp.
The airfield was part of the initial round of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in 1990. It was decommissioned in 1993, and South Carolina followed closely with the creation of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. At not cost, the city took over the base gold course and 100 acres of parks and athletic facilities. The county received the airport property, and 76 acres were dedicated to a technical college.
In the late 1990s, the redevelopment authority, under Executive Direction Buddy Styers, demolished 93 obsolete buildings and invested $30 million gained from the lease and sale of property to rebuild the infrastructure. McCaffery Interests of Chicago has been in charge of development, which has focused on the Market Common, a $600 million, 380,000-square-foot area of retail space, more than 95% or which is leased. It also includes 114 apartment rentals, 65 of which are currently occupied, 81 vacation apartment rentals that are regularly occupied, and 100 townhouses, a majority of which have been sold.
Horry County is working to develop a 460-acre site as an aviation industrial park. One-third of the site alongside the runway would be dedicated to aviation-related companies, one-third to aerospace industries, and one-third for a technology and office park.
"A unique feature of the Myrtle Beach Airport," says Owens, "is that it is only one mile from the beach and four miles from downtown. When you take off from the airport you are flying directly over the open ocean." -James Ott/jott@aviationweek.com
Allegiant Air is entering the Myrtle Beach, S.C., market, the eighth airline to serve Myrtle Beach International Airport, which has become the hub of a model for redevelopment of a former military base.
The airport itself is expanding, with an 11,000-square-foot, $4.5 million general aviation terminal about half completed and scheduled for opening this fall. Expansion will continue as the Horry County-owned airport is laying plans to replace its commercial terminal with a new facility to be constructed adjacent to the current one. initial plans call for doubling the number of gates to 14, and the airport is also extending its 9,500-foot runway by 1,000 feet.
Las Vegas-based Allegiant will operate twice weekly from Huntington, W. Va., and is adding service from Allentown, Pa. The carrier joins Continental, Delta, Spirit, Northwest, Direct Air, US Airways and United Express as Myrtle Beach clients.
The leisure-oriented Myrtle Beach area has been a strong stimulus for airport growth and the redevelopment of the nearly 4,000-acre former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base.
"More than 80% of the former base property has been sold to private groups or developed, or [is] in the process of redevelopment by institutions," says Hugh Owns, president/CEO of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corp.
The airfield was part of the initial round of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in 1990. It was decommissioned in 1993, and South Carolina followed closely with the creation of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority. At not cost, the city took over the base gold course and 100 acres of parks and athletic facilities. The county received the airport property, and 76 acres were dedicated to a technical college.
In the late 1990s, the redevelopment authority, under Executive Direction Buddy Styers, demolished 93 obsolete buildings and invested $30 million gained from the lease and sale of property to rebuild the infrastructure. McCaffery Interests of Chicago has been in charge of development, which has focused on the Market Common, a $600 million, 380,000-square-foot area of retail space, more than 95% or which is leased. It also includes 114 apartment rentals, 65 of which are currently occupied, 81 vacation apartment rentals that are regularly occupied, and 100 townhouses, a majority of which have been sold.
Horry County is working to develop a 460-acre site as an aviation industrial park. One-third of the site alongside the runway would be dedicated to aviation-related companies, one-third to aerospace industries, and one-third for a technology and office park.
"A unique feature of the Myrtle Beach Airport," says Owens, "is that it is only one mile from the beach and four miles from downtown. When you take off from the airport you are flying directly over the open ocean." -James Ott/jott@aviationweek.com
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
$135 Million Cogeneration Facility to Locate in Darlington County
Peregrine Energy Corp. of Greenville, S.C., announced plans earlier today to build a 50-megawatt co-generation biomass power plant in Darlington County. The new facility, which is a joint venture of Peregrine Energy, Progress Energy Carolinas, Inc. and Sonoco Products Company, will be located at Sonoco’s manufacturing complex in Hartsville.
The $135 million investment in the project by Peregrine Energy represents one of the largest investments in the history of Darlington County. The new cogeneration facility will create approximately 30 direct jobs and replace existing coal-fired boilers used by Sonoco. Progress Energy Carolinas will purchase all of the electrical output from Peregrine, while Sonoco will purchase the low-pressure steam for use at its manufacturing complex. Up to an additional 110 indirect support jobs also are expected, primarily in the forestry and transportation sectors.
“What I am most excited about are the economic benefits this project will bring, primarily through the additional 100-plus indirect forestry and transportation jobs,” said Wesley Blackwell, chairman of Darlington County Council. “This project creates great opportunities for existing small businesses and entrepreneurial start-ups in Darlington County.”
City of Hartsville Mayor Michael Holt said the City also is excited about the opportunities for employment this project will bring. “We express our gratitude to Sonoco and Progress Energy for being such strong corporate friends to this community," he said.
Jim Ramsey, chairman of Darlington County Economic Development Partnership, said Peregrine Energy, Progress Energy Carolinas and Sonoco should all be congratulated. “This project has truly been a group effort,” he said. “This announcement will provide long-term stability to Sonoco’s manufacturing operations in Hartsville, as well as support Progress Energy’s renewable energy commitment.”For more information, contact Robert Long at (843) 398-4600
The $135 million investment in the project by Peregrine Energy represents one of the largest investments in the history of Darlington County. The new cogeneration facility will create approximately 30 direct jobs and replace existing coal-fired boilers used by Sonoco. Progress Energy Carolinas will purchase all of the electrical output from Peregrine, while Sonoco will purchase the low-pressure steam for use at its manufacturing complex. Up to an additional 110 indirect support jobs also are expected, primarily in the forestry and transportation sectors.
“What I am most excited about are the economic benefits this project will bring, primarily through the additional 100-plus indirect forestry and transportation jobs,” said Wesley Blackwell, chairman of Darlington County Council. “This project creates great opportunities for existing small businesses and entrepreneurial start-ups in Darlington County.”
City of Hartsville Mayor Michael Holt said the City also is excited about the opportunities for employment this project will bring. “We express our gratitude to Sonoco and Progress Energy for being such strong corporate friends to this community," he said.
Jim Ramsey, chairman of Darlington County Economic Development Partnership, said Peregrine Energy, Progress Energy Carolinas and Sonoco should all be congratulated. “This project has truly been a group effort,” he said. “This announcement will provide long-term stability to Sonoco’s manufacturing operations in Hartsville, as well as support Progress Energy’s renewable energy commitment.”For more information, contact Robert Long at (843) 398-4600
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
2008 NESA Annual Report Released
FLORENCE – The North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA), an economic development organization encompassing South Carolina’s northeast region, contacted more than 3,000 companies and site selection consultants in 2008 and made eleven business development missions in its efforts to spark economic activity in the region, according to its annual report released Wednesday.
The report gives a thorough and detailed overview of the organization’s economic development efforts in 2008, and lays out strategic goals for 2009. It highlights the direct contact the group made with potential companies or developers to locate businesses in the region and discusses business development missions to several states across the U.S. as well as to Canada.
According to the report, in 2009 NESA will work to “continue to pursue an aggressive face-to-face industrial recruitment strategy,” by planning business development missions, continuing its wide ranging successful regional marketing strategy and hosting a number of investor and consultant events.
Over the long-term, the regional economic development organization seeks to outpace the State of South Carolina in job creation, increases in per capita income and increases in per capita investment. Further, NESA hopes to reduce the regional unemployment rate.
“It is not just lead generation that makes NESA such an outstanding organization; it is the diversity of the key initiatives that we pursue,” NESA Chairman Senator J. Yancey McGill wrote in the report.
“Even though the global economic crisis threw us a curveball, in 2008 we made progress on many fronts and helped to introduce several new economic development opportunities in each of our nine counties,” said NESA Executive Director Jeff McKay. “In 2009 we are going to push forward on projects like the I-73 ‘Interchange of Hope’ and keep working up close with potential employers from across the country and around the world. In our opinion, this is the time to ramp up our marketing efforts rather than sit back and wait for things to happen.”
Please follow this link to access the full report: http://www.scbusinesscorner.com/images/PDF/annual_report_32009.pdf
The report gives a thorough and detailed overview of the organization’s economic development efforts in 2008, and lays out strategic goals for 2009. It highlights the direct contact the group made with potential companies or developers to locate businesses in the region and discusses business development missions to several states across the U.S. as well as to Canada.
According to the report, in 2009 NESA will work to “continue to pursue an aggressive face-to-face industrial recruitment strategy,” by planning business development missions, continuing its wide ranging successful regional marketing strategy and hosting a number of investor and consultant events.
Over the long-term, the regional economic development organization seeks to outpace the State of South Carolina in job creation, increases in per capita income and increases in per capita investment. Further, NESA hopes to reduce the regional unemployment rate.
“It is not just lead generation that makes NESA such an outstanding organization; it is the diversity of the key initiatives that we pursue,” NESA Chairman Senator J. Yancey McGill wrote in the report.
“Even though the global economic crisis threw us a curveball, in 2008 we made progress on many fronts and helped to introduce several new economic development opportunities in each of our nine counties,” said NESA Executive Director Jeff McKay. “In 2009 we are going to push forward on projects like the I-73 ‘Interchange of Hope’ and keep working up close with potential employers from across the country and around the world. In our opinion, this is the time to ramp up our marketing efforts rather than sit back and wait for things to happen.”
Please follow this link to access the full report: http://www.scbusinesscorner.com/images/PDF/annual_report_32009.pdf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)