Benton County Secures $1.9 Million Grant for Development

News Summary

Benton County has received a $1.9 million grant from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to aid in purchasing a 555-acre property. The initiative aims to boost the local economy and attract businesses, addressing the issue of residents commuting outside for work. With the area stirring interest following Ford’s electric vehicle plant announcement, Benton County plans to develop the site while preserving significant green spaces, striving for Select Tennessee Certified Sites status to enhance industrial appeal.

Benton County’s Big Leap Forward with $1.9 Million Grant

Things are looking up for Benton County as it gears up for a major development project that could transform the local economy. Recently, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) stepped in to lend a hand, awarding the county a generous $1.9 million grant, which will cover about 95% of the costs to purchase a sprawling 555-acre property. This piece of land is being marketed as the “Gateway to West Tennessee.”

A New Dawn for Economic Growth

For a county with a population of around 16,000, where roughly 1,600 residents commute outside the area for work every day, this opportunity couldn’t be more promising. The county is making big moves to propel itself into the spotlight by appointing its very first economic development director, who will take the reins on this ambitious project. With so many residents seeking work elsewhere, this initiative aims to change that narrative.

Interest Spurring from Nearby Developments

The buzz around Benton County intensified after the announcement of Ford’s BlueOval City electric vehicle plant, which has piqued considerable interest in industrial sites throughout West Tennessee. In the year following that announcement, Benton County received an impressive 75 inquiries from potential companies interested in acquiring land, showcasing how magnetic the area has become. The incoming interest is diverse, spanning industries from automotive to chemicals to flooring, hinting at a bright industrial future.

Greener Pasture with Smart Planning

Development plans for the property are in the works, with around 167 acres earmarked for development, while a commitment has been made to preserve approximately 400 acres of trees. This eco-friendly approach not only adds aesthetic beauty but also maintains environmental integrity. The site is well-equipped with access to natural gas, proximity to a CSX rail line, and a robust 161 kilovolt TVA power line—features that significantly bolster its logistical appeal to prospective businesses.

Path to Certification and Increased Power Capacity

Benton County is aspiring to achieve Select Tennessee Certified Sites status, a designation that indicates readiness for industrial use. This is a big deal, as it can enhance the county’s attractiveness to businesses looking to set up shop. The current infrastructure is capable of providing up to 30 megawatts of power, which is particularly enticing for energy-intensive industries hunting for the right spot to establish operations.

A Major Milestone for Benton County

If all goes according to plan, the completion of the land purchase will mark a significant milestone in Benton County’s history—Mayor Mark Ward emphasized that this is potentially the biggest development the county has seen in a lifetime. With a prime location right on Highway 70 and near the Camden city limits, the site is strategically placed for ease of access, making it even more attractive to future employers.

Future Visual Enhancements and Economic Impacts

After securing the land, the county aims to implement further developments that will enhance the site’s visual appeal and functionality for prospective employers. Given the historical challenges of high unemployment and poverty levels in Benton County, this concerted effort to attract new industries is more than just a project—it’s a hope for a revitalized economic landscape and a better quality of life for residents.

Statewide Support for Rural Growth

This ambitious project is not happening in isolation. The TNECD has been dedicated to supporting rural economic growth throughout Tennessee and has distributed nearly $100 million since 2016 across 191 site development projects statewide. Benton County is certainly capitalizing on this opportunity, and the benefits could ripple through the community for years to come.

All eyes are now on Benton County as it embarks on this exciting journey. With a solid plan in place, the future looks bright for the residents who may soon see more job opportunities right in their backyard.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Tennessee Lookout: Benton County’s Purchase of Speculative Industrial Site
• Google Search: Benton County Industrial Growth
• TNECD: Governor Lee Announces Site Development Grant Recipients
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rural Economic Development
• WDEF: Tennessee Awards $17 Million in Site Development Grants
• Google News: Grants for Rural Development