On Thursday, December 19th, the Athens City Council gave the green light to an economic development initiative linked to retail investment. This decision aligns with the City of Athens 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which highlights a significant outflow of grocery store sales to surrounding areas, particularly affecting the eastern sector of the city. The new project aims to create a business hub within Athens, marking the establishment of the third Publix supermarket in the area.
The development is expected to generate approximately 115 new job opportunities and contribute around $22 million in annual sales to the local economy. In a strategic financial move, Athens will defer the collection of sales tax generated by the new business for a period of ten years or until the business has recouped $5.6 million, whichever occurs first. This arrangement will allow the city to support the new development while managing its fiscal responsibilities.
To further enhance the infrastructure, the City of Athens plans to seek funding through the ADECA Community Development Block Grant and the Appalachian Regional Commission Grant. These funds will be directed towards necessary improvements along Mooresville Road and U.S. 72. Additionally, the development will include the construction of internal roads specifically designed for Athens, with an estimated investment of $1 million allocated for this purpose. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster the local economy while improving accessibility and infrastructure within the city.
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