Governor Josh Stein visited the US 301 Industrial Site in Enfield to highlight North Carolina’s ongoing efforts to prepare industrial sites for development through the Selectsite Readiness Program. The state was recently named the 2025 State of the Year by Business Facilities Magazine, a recognition attributed to its business climate and investment attraction.
“The Selectsite program supports grading, clearing, infrastructure, and engineering improvements – all components that make a site ready for business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Enfield’s infrastructure, interstate and railway access, and proximity to deepwater ports mean that advanced manufacturing companies would be fortunate to call this location home. We’re turning dirt into jobs all across the state by creating the conditions companies need to succeed.”
Representative Rodney Pierce commented on regional growth: “This investment makes it clear that Halifax County and District 27 is open for business. By preparing sites like this one, we’re positioning this region to keep competing for new opportunities and long-term growth.”
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley added: “North Carolina’s record-breaking economic development success in recent years has given us the chance to replenish our industrial site inventory. When our urban centers and rural communities have shovel-ready sites, they increase their economic competitiveness to attract new companies, business expansions, and capital investments to the region while creating new jobs for the people that live and work there.”
The Selectsite Readiness Program was established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2023 with a goal of preparing mid-sized industrial properties for high-impact projects. Halifax County is among 15 locations receiving support; it was awarded a $3 million grant—$2.35 million from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Selectsite Readiness Program and $650,000 in matching funds from the NC Department of Transportation—to develop its site for large-scale advanced manufacturing.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will upgrade Trestle Road from U.S. 301 to meet transportation needs at the site by realigning and paving it as a two-lane road suitable for truck traffic. Halifax County is securing right-of-way access for these improvements.
State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson stated: “Access to good roads is one of the top factors industries consider when deciding where to locate. We are excited to work with Halifax County and many other partners to lay the foundation for this important project and help make this area a more attractive destination for new businesses with good-paying jobs.”
Christopher Chung, CEO of Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, said: “Speed to market has become one of the most important factors in today’s economic development landscape. The Selectsite Readiness Program helps our communities do the hard work upfront so companies can move quickly, create jobs, and invest in North Carolina with confidence.”
Since Governor Stein took office in January 2025—as noted on the official website—the North Carolina Department of Commerce has invested over $3 million across Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) and RIA Utility Account awards.
At this event, Governor Stein announced that Business Facilities Magazine had named North Carolina as its 2025 State of the Year.
“This recognition underscores the progress North Carolina is making to build a strong, resilient economy that works for all parts of our state,” said Governor Stein. “Last year, we had the best year in state history for job announcements and capital investments. We’re the number one state for business in the country and the top state for workforce development. We’ve got to keep our foot on the gas to make sure that everyone benefits from expanding growth and opportunity.”
Site Selection Magazine also recently ranked North Carolina as its 2026 Top State for Workforce Development due to strong higher education programs, apprenticeships, and workforce initiatives. Johnson & Johnson announced an expansion adding up to 500 jobs as part of its ongoing $2 billion investment in North Carolina.
CNBC ranked North Carolina as Top State for Business last year—the third time within four years—for its economy, workforce quality, and business environment.
Governor Stein has been serving as chief executive since January 2025 according to the official website, leading efforts including enforcing laws statewide through his role directing policy decisions via budget management or appointments within state governance structures originating back in 1776 (source). Since taking office just over a year ago he has announced more than 35,000 new jobs created alongside over $24 billion invested statewide during record-setting economic activity.