IN: Nine Indiana Sites Score State Designation for Speedier Development

Nine sites across Indiana earned the title of 'shovel ready' today, paving the way for businesses to quickly locate new operations on property ready for development.

The nine new sites located in Cass, Hancock, Howard, Lawrence, Monroe, Morgan, Perry, Shelby and Wabash counties join the list of 56 other 'shovel ready' sites identified by the state since 2006 that have undergone extensive title work, proof of ownership, legal and environmental review and qualify for expedited permitting with state regulatory agencies.

"There's no doubt that Indiana's 'shovel ready' program is a valuable tool to attract companies looking to make a quick decision on a potential site," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Now with 65 sites throughout the state we can provide better help for businesses searching for the right place to grow." 

In August, Trenwa Inc. announced it would expand its utility products manufacturing operations in Switzerland County's 'shovel ready' Markland Business Park, creating 25 new jobs. Jasper Engines, a remanufacturer of drivetrain components, announced earlier this month that it has expanded its operations in Dubois County and its facility at the Crawford County Southeast Industrial Park 'shovel ready' site, creating a combined 65 new jobs.

Passed in the 2005 legislative session as part of Governor Daniels' jobs agenda, 'shovel ready' sites are certified by the state's Fast Access Site Team that consists of representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Governor's Office, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Department of Health, Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the Indiana State Department of Homeland Security. 

Certified sites have been eligible for matching grants to assist with eligible costs associated with applying for the 'shovel ready' program.  These sites are listed on the Indiana Economic Development Corporation's Site and Building Database at http://statein.zoomprospector.com/.  This online resource allows site selection consultants and businesses to research available commercial and industrial properties that are available for quick development and investment.

The most recent shovel ready sites receiving certification are:

 

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels.  Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.  For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.