BREWTON, Alabama — The City of Brewton is taking a major step to bolster its industrial growth prospects through a grant from the Alabama’s SEEDS (Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy) Act.
Alabama Department of Commerce officials last Friday presented Brewton leaders with a check for $54,961 to support targeted enhancements at the Brewton Industrial Park. The funds will help finance site engineering work critical for preparing the location for future economic development projects.
Brewton is contributing an additional investment, bringing the total project cost to $82,400.
“Through the SEEDS initiative, we’re making strategic investments to prepare communities like Brewton for sustainable industrial growth,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “The improvements at the Brewton Industrial Park will help position the site to compete for transformative projects and quality jobs.
“We’re proud to support Brewton’s efforts to build a stronger economic future and create new opportunities for citizens in the region.”
The grant marks the second SEEDS award in rural Escambia County, following a 2024 award to the City of Atmore for an expansion at its industrial park.
“Brewton is taking a proactive approach to economic development, and this SEEDS grant will enhance the community’s ability to attract new investment and jobs,” said Brenda Tuck, Rural Development Manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“Strategic site preparation like this sends a clear message to industry that rural Alabama is open for business — and ready to grow,” she added.
Local impact
Local leaders praised the award as a crucial step toward long-term economic success.
“We are very thankful that Secretary McNair and Gov. Kay Ivey approved these funds for Brewton,” Mayor Yank Lovelace said. “In economic development, it’s important to be prepared for projects, not wait until companies come to your city and try to get things up to par in a rush.
“These funds will help us with site development at the industrial park, and we believe we will be better positioned to attract new business and industry because of it.”
“Brewton made a strong case for funding, and we’re very happy that the state agreed,” said Jess Nicholas, executive director of the Escambia County Industrial Development Authority. “Having sites ready for development has been a focal point of the state in recent years, and Brewton is part of that discussion now.”
The SEEDS program represents a cornerstone of Governor Kay Ivey’s “Game Plan” for continued economic success, which was launched in April 2023. By accelerating the development of industry-ready sites, SEEDS ensures that Alabama remains competitive in attracting new business investments.
The first two rounds of SEEDS funding supported a total of 56 sites statewide, helping local communities and economic development organizations advance critical site readiness efforts.
Applications for Round 3 of SEEDS are now being accepted.
