AL: Fayette County Leadership Secures SEEDS Grant to Boost Econ Development, With New Industrial Site

C3 of the Northwest Alabama Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is proud to announce a major step forward in economic development for Fayette County. Through Alabama’s innovative Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) program, the Industrial Development Board of the City of Fayette (Fayette IDB) has been awarded a $733,700 grant to acquire a prime 76-acre industrial site. This investment sets the stage for future business growth and job creation in the region.

Strategically located on Highway 43—the future West Central Alabama Highway—with quick access to I-22, the North Fayette Industrial Site is ideally positioned for industrial development. The property includes utilities at the site line, significantly reducing infrastructure costs and accelerating project timelines. Nearby assets such as Bevill State Community College, Walmart, and the recently upgraded Richard Arthur Field Airport further enhance the site’s appeal, making it a competitive location for advanced manufacturing and other high-value industries. The Fayette IDB is committed to preparing this new industrial park to be “site ready.”

"The Fayette IDB set our sights on the North Fayette Industrial Site about seven years ago. We believe this site is the best location in Fayette County and will provide new opportunities for industrial growth,” said Larry Pinkerton, Chairman of the Fayette IDB. “We are very grateful to the SEEDS program, including the EDPA, Commerce, and the State Industrial Development Authority for this opportunity. I would personally like to recognize all of the Fayette IDB Board members, Mayor Rod Northam, the City of Fayette, Probate Judge Mike Freeman and the Fayette County Commission, and Tom Wisemiller and his team at Northwest Alabama EDA for their invaluable support and collaboration in making this vision a reality.”

The SEEDS grant will cover approximately two-thirds of the site’s purchase price, with the remaining cost funded by the Fayette IDB. Once acquired, the site will be actively marketed by the regional economic development team to attract new industries and expand the area’s economic footprint.

"The City of Fayette is thrilled to see the North Fayette Industrial Site moving closer to becoming a hub of economic activity,” said Fayette Mayor Rod Northam. “This grant from the SEEDS program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our community and state partners. It underscores our shared commitment to fostering growth and creating new opportunities for our residents. We look forward to the positive impact this development will have on our local economy and the future of Fayette."

The SEEDS Act, approved by the Alabama Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey in 2024, provides cities, counties, and other local government entities with funds to assist with the development of industrial property and the acquisition of new land for business and industrial use.

“The SEEDS program continues to be a game-changer for rural counties across Alabama, providing the resources needed to make industrial sites more attractive to prospective employers. Thanks to Governor Ivey and the Alabama Legislature’s support, we are seeing real momentum in rural economic development, paving the way for long-term prosperity in communities like Fayette,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Brenda Tuck, Rural Development Manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce, said the SEEDS grant will help Fayette capitalize on its economic potential.

"This investment is another strong step forward in positioning Fayette as a prime location for business growth," Tuck said. "By improving site readiness, we’re laying the groundwork for new opportunities that will benefit local businesses, job seekers, and the entire community. The SEEDS program is a testament to Alabama’s commitment to ensuring rural communities have the tools they need to thrive."

Tom Wisemiller, President & CEO of the Northwest Alabama Economic Development Alliance (also known as C3), said, “The SEEDS Act has been a crucial boost for Fayette and the entire region. In the first round of SEEDS funding, Sulligent and Hamilton were able to complete due diligence and planning for two high-priority industrial parks. With Fayette receiving a SEEDS grant in round two, all three of our counties—Marion, Fayette, and Lamar—have now reaped the benefits of this initiative.”

Wisemiller continued, “We are grateful for Gov. Ivey’s vision in implementing this program, which enhances Alabama’s standing as a leader in economic development. With over $7 billion invested in Alabama last year, the Northwest Alabama region is well-positioned for growth and stands to gain significantly from initiatives like SEEDS.”

To learn more about business and development opportunities in Northwest Alabama, visit www.northwestalabamaeda.org.