“A rapidly growing trend in economic development site selection is the requirement that sites be certified, or “shovel ready.” Companies are making location decisions in shorter timeframes, and they want to know that any potential risks with a site have already been mitigated, and the land is well-suited for development. This certification provides us with a competitive advantage, and allows us to compete for projects that require that due diligence be completed prior to a site visit,” said Traci Lutton, Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance.The Quality Site Program Certification requires engineered site plans, environmental studies, archeological reconnaissance, utility infrastructure and capacity analysis, extensive community data and more.
The Certification assures that a property is appropriate for an industrial user, meaning there are no impediments to timely development.”Serving our communities is a privilege and being a partner in our community’s growth is important, said Rob Cleveland, Director of Economic Development and Community Affairs at Indiana Michigan Power. Having sites ready and equipped to welcome business is crucial to not only being competitive, but to being a leader in bolstering the area.”
