County industrial site given unique distinction

By Staff
Jonathan Willis
The Mike Green Industrial Park in Russellville was officially recognized Friday as the third industrial park in the state to gain the distinction of being an Advantage Site.
Officials from several local and state offices met at the A.W. Todd Center Friday morning for an official recognition of the award.
"This is something that will give Franklin County a competitive edge," said Ernie Cowart, of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.
The Advantage Site program requires that community economic development organizations provide documentation specific to a proposed industrial site, including a set of standard data related to ownership and control, environmental and geo-technical conditions and infrastructure status.
"Getting this designation was a priority for our office," said Mitch Mays, executive director of the Franklin County Development Authority.
"There has been tremendous growth in northern Mississippi and Alabama, and we see this as a way to set ourselves apart. This tells prospective companies that we are serious, and have prepared to meet their needs."
The Advantage Site program is jointly sponsored by the Alabama Development Office, Alabama Gas Corporation, Alabama Power, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, the North Alabama Industrial Development Association and PowerSouth Energy Cooperative.
Cindy Burns, with the North Alabama Industrial Development Authority, said the designation would allow the site to be actively marketed to potential industries.
"There are only seven sites in the state now that have this designation," she said. "The MG Industrial Park will be marketed for your area."