The MDD has been working very hard to activate a property as a new industrial park. This 550acre tract is at the southeast corner of the Highway 77 and 79 intersection. It is owned by a private company.
Creating an industrial property is a complex process that requires a lot of studies and careful planning. Birthing an industrial park is a better verb to use here. Basically, we have to work to reduce any risk and resolve any unknowns that come with the property.
The MDD started this journey in the fall of 2022. The property owner agreed that industrial development was the best use of the property and the MDD Board agreed to pay for all the documentation studies. By entering into a partnership with the property owner, the MDD and city can avoid certain large costs, such as land acquisition.
The nightmare scenario is that construction starts and then something is discovered that will stop work and waste money. This could be anything from a long-lost heir with a property claim to an endangered species that calls the land home.
The MDD commissioned an environmental assessment which explored prior uses of the property and if there are any issues. This study examined if there were any historic or cultural assets that are protected. We had to make sure there are no endangered species whose habitats are on the property. We did a topographic survey and used that data to analyze drainage on the property. Finally, we had to identify any protected wetlands. All these data points went into creating a conceptual layout of how the property could be turned into an industrial park. Finally, work was done to determine how to extend city utilities to the site.
The property owner and MDD are very near birthing this new site and taking it to market. We have already hosted visitors who have expressed an interest in this property and investing in Rockdale. The owner has listed the property with an industrial real estate broker from Houston. Between the property owner and the industrial broker, we are assembling a top-notch development team.
Think of this article as one of those catchy Instagram “We’re Expecting” announcements. We are going to do great things in Rockdale, Texas!
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