NC Approves $440,200 for Monroe's Selectsite Readiness Program
The City of Monroe is pleased to announce that the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) Board of Directors has unanimously approved Monroe’s Selectsite Readiness Program application in the amount of $440,200. The decision was made during the EDPNC’s Q1 2025 Board meeting on March 27, 2025.
These funds will be instrumental in advancing Monroe’s 74-acre Expressway Commerce Park by covering key site readiness activities, including:
Preliminary engineering reports for water, publicly-owned electric infrastructure, and wastewater treatment to the site
Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments
Preliminary wetland and stream determination (with a detailed determination if appropriate)
Geotechnical report
Buildable area map
Assessments related to road and highway infrastructure serving the site
Sunflower study to determine if the endangered Schweinitz Sunflower is absent or present
Expressway Commerce Park is strategically located between N. Sutherland Avenue and W. Roosevelt Boulevard and zoned for light industrial use.
City officials praised this investment, emphasizing its significance for Monroe’s continued economic growth and industrial development.
“This funding from the Selectsite Readiness Program is a major step forward in our mission to attract high-quality precision manufacturing projects to Monroe,” said City Manager Mark Watson. “By investing in the necessary site assessments and infrastructure planning, we are ensuring that Expressway Commerce Park is ready for businesses that will create high-paying jobs for our residents.”
Mayor Robert Burns emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in securing this funding.
“We appreciate the EDPNC’s confidence in Monroe and their support in advancing our economic development efforts. This funding represents a collaborative effort between local and State leaders, working together to create new opportunities for our community,” said Mayor Robert Burns.
Council Members James Kerr and Franco McGee highlighted the long-term impact of the project.
“This initiative underscores Monroe’s commitment to economic development and smart growth. The site readiness efforts funded through this program will help position Monroe as a premier destination for industry and innovation,” said Council Member James Kerr.
“This is a crucial investment in Monroe’s future. By preparing Expressway Commerce Park for development, we are strengthening our local economy and setting the stage for sustainable job creation,” said Council Member Franco McGee.
The North Carolina General Assembly established the Selectsite Readiness Program in 2023 to enhance the State’s competitiveness in attracting major manufacturing projects.
The City of Monroe remains committed to preparing Expressway Commerce Park for future industrial investment and achieving the coveted “North Carolina Certified Site” status, a designation that enhances marketability to prospective businesses.
For more information on Monroe’s Economic Development initiatives, please contact economicdevelopment@monroenc.org or visit monroenc.org/economicdevelopment.
Related: Monroe Chosen for Prestigious State Economic Development Program