OmniTRAX, Inc., one of the largest privately held transportation service companies in North America and an affiliate of The Broe Group, announces the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub has been certified a Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development site by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the state’s marketing and sales arm. OmniTRAX is developing the 2,700-acre tract in Effingham County, GA in partnership with the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority.

“The GRAD designation for the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub means that it can truly compete on a global stage for new industry and the accompanying jobs,” said Pat Wilson, Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development. “I believe that the efforts by Effingham County and OmniTRAX to attain the GRAD status for Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub will help attract world class companies to the site.”

The Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub, strategically positioned 12 miles from the Port of Savannah and served by the CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads, is expected to attract manufacturers, processors, distributors and others. Benefits for companies locating at the new site include proximity to one of the country’s leading ports, the flexibility of dual rail service, an educated and productive work force and the flexibility to purchase or lease a parcel. The Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub, which is working closely with Georgia Power to attract tenants, is one of only 60 active GRAD sites and the largest within 15 miles of the Port of Savannah.

“The GRAD designation is a great validation point for the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub, showing potential tenants the site is well positioned to serve all their infrastructure needs. It also confirms that OmniTRAX and the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority are committed to providing all the companies locating facilities at the site the best possible experience,” said Kevin Shuba, CEO of OmniTRAX.

The GRAD designation indicates that the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub is shovel-ready. The designation also raises the site’s profile compared with other industrial sites in Georgia through:

• Showcased presence on the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s website.

• Certified designation in the industrial site databases of utility economic development organizations whose focus is to help companies find and expand facilities in Georgia.

• Featured appearances in marketing campaigns directed at targeted companies and location consultants.

“Effingham County appreciates receiving the GRAD certification for the Savannah Gateway Industrial Hub and we know it will help bring economic growth to our community through capital investment and high-quality jobs,” said Tre Wilkins, Interim CEO of ECIDA.