By By Marianne Todd/The Meridian Star
Sept. 7, 2001
Hundreds of volunteers are expected to begin clearing land today at what is possibly the prettiest piece of industrial property in the state.
The 600 acres is home to more than a dozen barns, a house and guest houses, ponds, pecan orchards and rolling hills. The land borders about a one-mile stretch of Highway 11/80 East, just east of Meridian and north of Interstate 20.
Jimmy Alexander, president of A &B Electric Co. Inc., said dozens of Meridian businesses will sacrifice everything from food for work crews to heavy machinery that will clean the Highway 11/80 East land.
About 50 pieces of heavy machinery are expected to bulldoze, trim and groom the land on what is formerly known as Malone Ranch.
At a Thursday night barbecue kick off, more than 60 businessmen, elected officials and civic leaders gathered in support of the project. Some viewed the dinner as a peace treaty among people of differing opinions and backgrounds.
Wade Jones, president of East Mississippi Business Development Corp. , said the industrial land already has generated much interest and several prospects.
Alexander said the next step will be to create infrastructure, with water, sewer and Interstate 20 access topping the list of priorities.
Marianne Todd is a staff writer for the Meridian Star. Call her at 693-1551, ext. 3236, or e-mail her at mtodd@themeridianstar.com.
Did you know?
Volunteers will begin gathering today to clear the county's new industrial park on Highway 11/80 East. The work will continue through Saturday.