Commissioners Give Green Light To Shell Industrial Building

The Halifax County Board of Commissioners recently gave the green light to a $2.5 million funding request to the Golden LEAF Foundation for construction of a 40,000-square-foot shell industrial building. The building would be constructed on Lot #1 at the Halifax Corporate Park, a 20.89 acre pad-ready industrial site. The total cost of the project is estimated at $3,433,190. This approval marks a significant milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to enhance economic opportunities and attract new businesses to the area.

Golden LEAF’s Shell Building initiative is part of a broader effort by the NC General Assembly through a $10 million appropriation to implement a Shell Building Pilot Program. Halifax is one of seven counties eligible for this funding intended to increase the number of publicly-owned industrial buildings suitable for new and expanding businesses, including those in the manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution sectors.

To maximize the potential of this project, Halifax County will partner with Roanoke Cooperative to leverage funds from the Rural Economic Development Loan/Grant (REDLG) program. The REDLG program offers zero-interest financing with an eight-year term and up to a two-year deferral, and will provide crucial matching dollars for the project.

Cathy Scott, Executive Director of the Halifax County Economic Development Commission, emphasized the economic benefits of constructing a shell building. “Having a shell building at the corporate park can contribute to our efforts by attracting new businesses, creating job opportunities, and boosting the local economy,” said Scott.

The goal is to commence construction of the new shell building later this fall. This project promises to enhance the Halifax Corporate Park by offering ready-to-use industrial space that can attract companies that might not otherwise consider the area.