HOUSTON COUNTY, Ala. — Houston County commissioners are working to secure funding that would significantly enhance the county’s industrial growth. The county is pursuing a grant on behalf of its industrial board to fund critical site work for a new sewage treatment plant located near the state line.
This site, situated close to the McLane Distribution Center in Cottonwood, has been owned by the county for many years but has remained underdeveloped due to a lack of essential infrastructure. The proposed project aims to add water and sewer systems to the area, which will help attract new businesses and foster future growth.
County officials are seeking approximately $2-3 million in grant funding to support the infrastructure improvements, which include water and sewer lines, as well as road development. These upgrades, according to Houston County Commission Chairman Brandon Shoupe, are considered the “final two pieces of the puzzle” needed to transform the area into a viable industrial site.
“The water and sewer are like the last two pieces to the puzzle,” Shoupe explained. “By approving this, hopefully, if we get the grant money, we will have adequate sewer. We are also going to finish up getting the water line to the distribution park. This will check the final two boxes, and after that, we will have a great industrial site where tenants can locate and build something new.”
The industrial park, which is adjacent to one of the county’s key logistical hubs, has long been seen as a prime location for economic development. However, its lack of necessary infrastructure has hindered its potential for growth. The addition of these essential services would position the area for future expansion, attracting new businesses and providing opportunities for job creation.
Chairman Shoupe and county officials are hopeful that the grant will be approved in the coming months, with the goal of receiving a response by this summer. If successful, the grant could pave the way for the county to finalize its plans for a state-of-the-art industrial park that will serve as a catalyst for long-term economic growth in the region.
As Houston County awaits word on the funding, local leaders remain optimistic about the future and are eager to see the area reach its full potential.
