DECATUR — A major development project in Limestone County received a boost through the Alabama Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act.
The Limestone County Economic Development Association announced today the Frazier-White Site has been awarded a grant of $87,922.12 for a $153,710 site assessment study.
“These grant funds mark a significant step forward in preparing the Frazier-White Site for development,” Limestone County Economic Development Association President & CEO Bethany Shockney said. “With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and access to a skilled labor force, this site has potential to serve as an economic engine for our community, region, and state.”
The 430-acre site is just 1 1/2 miles from I-65 and adjacent to U.S. 31 and U.S. Alternate 72, south of Calhoun Community College. It was recently evaluated by Global Location Strategies and ranked among Alabama’s top-tier industrial properties.
The SEEDS program is a statewide initiative that identifies and accelerates the development of high-potential sites across Alabama.
The funding will launch essential site due-diligence efforts such as a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, wetlands delineation, cultural and historical review, and threatened and endangered species study. These foundational assessments are critical for positioning the site to attract major industrial investment.
“This SEEDS grant represents a smart investment in Limestone County’s future,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “By accelerating the development of this industrial site, we’re strengthening the region’s ability to compete for high-impact projects that bring new jobs and long-term growth.
“Alabama is focused on making sure our communities are ready for opportunity and this is a strong step in that direction.”
The site’s rail connectivity has garnered attention from major transportation partners, with Norfolk Southern recognizing its strategic value for industrial development.
“Norfolk Southern is proud to support the development of rail-served sites like the Frazier-White Site,” said Tyler Preast, Norfolk Southern senior industrial development manager. “This SEEDS award represents a meaningful investment in Decatur-Limestone County and reinforces the value of rail in driving economic growth and American reindustrialization.”
Local officials are also rallying behind the site’s potential to drive significant economic growth throughout the region.
Limestone County Commission Chair Collin Daly highlighted the broader implications of the investment.
“The Frazier-White Site’s top-tier ranking and strategic location make it an ideal site for bringing quality jobs and industrial growth to our county,” he said.
Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling underscored the site’s readiness for advanced industries.
“This property represents one of Decatur and Limestone County’s most strategic industrial assets, and this funding moves us closer to making it market ready,” he said. “By advancing due diligence, we are strengthening our ability to attract advanced manufacturing and other high-value industries that will benefit our region’s economy.”
The project has drawn support from neighboring economic development organizations, demonstrating the collaborative approach to regional growth.
Jeremy Nails, president & CEO of the Morgan County Economic Development Association, praised the investment’s regional significance.
“This investment is a critical step in enhancing the site’s readiness and visibility for future development,” he said. “Strategic site evaluation and preparation strengthen our regional competitiveness and helps position North Alabama for long-term economic growth.”
The Frazier-White Site demonstrated exceptional performance across all three SEEDS evaluation models (Balanced, Labor-Intensive, and Capital-Intensive) with particularly strong scores in infrastructure, logistics, and workforce capabilities.
With the SEEDS funding now secured, LCEDA will advance to the next phase of positioning the site for prospective industries and headquarters in sectors including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, aviation, agriculture technology, and food products.
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