advertisement

---

CSX Corp. has designated the Interstate 85 site in Macon County, Ala., as a "Select Site," making it the first location in the state to receive the certification.

Launched in 2012, the Select Site program identifies the "most capable manufacturing and distribution development properties" along the Class I's network that can "rapidly utilize freight-rail service," according to a press release. The designation signifies that standard land use issues have been addressed and the site is ready for development.

"Through the Select Site program, we can increase speed to market and lower upfront development risk for companies seeking industrial property for manufacturing operations," said Assistant Vice President of Regional Development Clark Robertson in a prepared statement. "This program helps communities identify and prepare sites that can compete for new investments and job creation."

CSX created the program as an opportunity to work with the economic development community to create an inventory of sites that can be marketed for CSX direct rail service. CSX has partnered with The Austin Co., a site selection consulting firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.

The 277-acre I-85 site is located along the Hyundai-Kia automotive corridor just off the interstate. The site also is near Auburn and Tuskegee universities, is adjacent to CSX's mainline and has all utilities on, or easily accessible from, the property.