Iron, Cache counties move to be part of UIP

Two Utah counties have taken the first step in the creation of Utah Inland Port project areas. Commissioners in Iron and Cache counties passed resolutions recently to begin creation of the project areas, a move that heightens the coordination between the counties and the Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA). The resolutions also establish the structure for anticipated loans for logistics infrastructure in the areas.

The Iron County Commission’s resolution establishes a project area in the new{mprestriction ids="1,3"} Commerce Crossroads Logistics Park in Cedar City where park developers become partners with UIPA and Iron County as owners and developers of the project.

Commerce Crossroads Logistics Park, six miles west of downtown Cedar City, is a new rail-served industrial park anchored by BZI Steel’s 400,000-square-foot fabrication plant. Park plans call for direct rail spur access to tenants as well as a transload facility for non-direct-spur properties.

“We’re very excited to participate in this project in coordination with our state and local leaders,” said James Barlow, CEO of Commerce Crossroads. “Our goal is to bring high-value opportunities to the region that are current, vibrant and sustainability-focused.”

Danny Stewart, Iron County economic development director, joined UIPA officials in presenting the process of the proposal to Iron County Commissioners. He said there will be additional public meetings in the coming months as well as a UIPA-led environmental assessment of the land and surrounding area prior to the final adoption of the project area.

“Iron County is a tremendous model for the state as they continue to focus on their future and ensure economic success for future generations,” said Ben Hart, executive director of UIPA. “We look forward to partnering with the county and Commerce Crossroads to optimize economic growth across the entire southwestern Utah region.”

Box Elder County commissioners also unanimously adopted a resolution creating an Inland Port project area in their county. Although a specific site was not designated, commissioners said the project area will consist of areas in the county with a focus on agricultural production and manufacturing.

“Box Elder County is the true crossroads of the West and we believe a logistics facility in this county will benefit the entire region,” said Commissioner Stan Summers, chair of the Box Elder County Commission. “As we look to strengthen our economy with this partnership, we are creating generational growth that will benefit our kids and grandkids in the county.”

Box Elder officials said the intent of the Box Elder project area is to connect Northern Utah to the global market, especially when it comes to agricultural products. With planning in its early stages, UIPA and Box Elder County will hold also additional public meetings in the coming months and UIPA will also conduct an environmental assessment.

“Box Elder County has deep roots as logistics leader in the state of Utah,” said Hart. “Their foresight will help to create regional economic empowerment through all of Northern Utah and Southern Idaho.”{/mprestriction}