2013/3/4 - Macon County I-85 Site Receives first CSX Select Site Designation in State

CSX's Select Site program reviews the most capable manufacturing and distribution development properties along the CSX network that can rapidly utilize freight rail service. This designation confirms that standard land use issues have been addressed and that the site is ready for development.

"Through the Select Site program, we can increase speed to market and lower up-front development risk for companies seeking industrial property for manufacturing operations," said Clark Robertson, assistant vice president, regional development, CSX. "This program helps communities identify and prepare sites that can compete for new investments and job creation."

CSX introduced the program in 2012 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 Company, a nationally known site selection consulting firm, to screen candidate sites and assist communities with the application and certification process.

"This 277-acre site in Macon County is well situated along the Hyundai-Kia automotive corridor just off I-85, the Interstate connecting Montgomery and Atlanta, Ga.  The site is also in close proximity to Auburn and Tuskegee Universities," said Jonathan Gemmen, senior location consultant, The Austin Company.  "The cleared site is adjacent to CSX's mainline and has all utilities on or within easy access to the property." 

CSX would like to recognize the Macon County Economic Development Authority, Wayne and Jimmy Bassett of Beck's Turf Farm, the Utilities Board of Tuskegee, the Macon County Commission, the City of Tuskegee and City of Notasulga, as well as the unwavering support of the legislative delegation of State Rep. Pebblin Warren and State Senator Billy Beasley.

CSX has certified numerous other sites across its service territory. The CSX Select Site program is in addition to its existing Megasite Program, which focuses on sites of 1,000 acres or more, including the South Alabama Megasite in Baldwin County. The certified sites are also featured on our user-friendly Web portal. To learn more, visit http://www.csxselectsite.com.

About CSX

CSX, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states, the District of Columbia and two Canadian provinces. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com. Like us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialCSX) and follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/CSX).

SOURCE CSX Transportation Inc.