Governor Stein Visits US 301 Industrial Site

Governor Josh Stein visited Halifax County today to highlight rural economic competitiveness and recognize the progress made at the US 301 Industrial Site near Enfield, one of only 15 designated SelectSites statewide. The visit focused on the work led by the Halifax County Economic Development Commission in positioning the county for large-scale investment under the theme “Turning Dirt Into Jobs.”

The SelectSite Readiness Program is designed to help communities prepare mid-sized industrial properties for high-impact development. Eligible uses of funding include grading, clearing, infrastructure extensions, and engineering due diligence. For rural counties, this type of targeted funding helps close the gap between raw land and market-ready industrial sites.

Governor toured the US 301 Industrial Site and received a detailed briefing from county officials regarding plans and current investments to bring the property to full shovel-ready status.  The site’s advancement is supported by a $3 million combined investment package, including a $2.35 million SelectSite Readiness Program grant awarded through the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina and $650,000 in matching funds from the North Carolina Department of Transportation. These funds are directed toward construction of a dedicated access road to the US 301 Industrial Site and improvements to the adjacent electric substation.

Chenoa Richardson Davis, Vice-Chair of the Halifax County Board of Commissioners, thanked Governor Stein for recognizing that rural economic development is essential to the strength of the entire state. “We appreciate your leadership and your commitment to the needs of rural communities like Halifax County,” commented Davis.  

Other speakers included NC Representative Rodney Pierce; Kenny Flowers, Chief Deputy Secretary of Commerce; and Adam Reed, General Manager of Roseburg Forest Products. Each of these speakers emphasized the importance of partnerships and that site readiness is the foundation for new jobs and investment.

Governor Stein also highlighted the recent announcement that North Carolina was named Business Facilities 2025 State of the Year, reinforcing the state’s national standing for business climate and project readiness.

Today’s visit underscored the value of continued state and local partnerships.  With the US 301 SelectSite moving forward, Halifax County is strengthening its ability to attract private investment, support job growth, and expand long-term economic opportunities.