Jackson Growth Alliance (JGA) is taking a major step toward creating new industrial development opportunities in Jackson County. The organization has secured a $140,139 Site Readiness Grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), funding that will support critical due‑diligence and engineering work on 88 acres of property under a transferable option near the Southern Illinois Airport. JGA is also contributing more than $35,000 in local matching funds, underscoring its long‑term commitment to economic growth in the region.
This investment represents a significant milestone in JGA’s effort to prepare a modern, competitive industrial site capable of attracting future employers. The organization is working closely with Southern Illinois Now as part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional competitiveness and expand opportunities for business investment.
Preparing a Development‑Ready Site
The grant will fund a series of due‑diligence studies and preliminary engineering tasks to be completed by Horner & Shifrin in the coming months. This work will evaluate infrastructure needs, environmental considerations, utility access, transportation connectivity, and overall development feasibility — all essential components of a site that can compete for industrial projects on accelerated timelines.
In today’s economic development landscape, companies increasingly expect communities to have shovel‑ready sites where key studies and planning work are already complete. Communities that can offer this level of preparedness are significantly more competitive when responding to business expansion or relocation opportunities.
“This Illinois DCEO grant positions Jackson County to compete for the kinds of projects that can transform our local economy,” said Darrell Bryant, Executive Director of JGA. “Securing both property control and this investment represents a major win for the county and a vote of confidence in our economic future. Once the technical work is complete, we will have a competitive, shovel‑ready industrial site that can attract new industry and jobs.”
A Strategic Location for Future Growth
The site offers several advantages for future industrial users, including proximity to the Southern Illinois Airport, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center. The property also benefits from nearby electric and utility connections, along with quick access to U.S. Highway 51 and Illinois Route 13, providing strong regional connectivity for logistics and workforce access.
The due‑diligence work funded through the grant will also help lay the groundwork for potential future infrastructure investments — including utilities, road access, and other improvements that could support long‑term industrial and commercial development.
Positioning Jackson County for the Future
JGA leaders emphasize that this project is part of a broader, long‑range strategy to prepare Jackson County for sustainable economic growth. By investing in site readiness today, the region is better positioned to attract new businesses, support existing employers, and create opportunities for residents and future generations.