CHILDERSBURG, Alabama — A new round of infrastructure improvements is set to bolster the Childersburg Industrial Park thanks to a $1.7 million SEEDS grant awarded to support critical upgrades in Talladega County.
The funding will support the construction of 12,470 feet of gravity and force main sewer lines, along with a new pumping station — essential infrastructure that will enhance the park’s readiness for industrial development.
Combined with a local contribution, the total project investment stands at $2.9 million.
“This SEEDS grant represents a strategic investment in the future of Childersburg and Talladega County,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “By enhancing infrastructure at the Childersburg Industrial Park, we’re creating new opportunities for industrial growth, job creation and long-term economic vitality in the region.
“It’s exactly the kind of project SEEDS is designed to support,” she added.
The improvements are expected to strengthen the region’s economic development potential by preparing the site for new industrial tenants and encouraging long-term job creation.
“This SEEDS grant is a game-changer for Childersburg and the surrounding region,” State Senator Lance Bell said. “By strengthening the infrastructure at the industrial park, we’re not just preparing the site for new investment — we’re opening the door to real, long-term job growth for our citizens.
“This is a strategic step forward for economic development in our community, and I’m proud to support it,” he added.
Local officials celebrated the supported from the state provided by the SEEDS grant.
“This investment by the state in the infrastructure of the Childersburg Industrial Park greatly enhances the ability of Talladega County to attract industry,” said Calvin Miller, Executive Director of the Talladega County Economic Development Authority.
“The Childersburg Park at nearly 1,600 acres is one of the largest publicly owned industrial sites, and the sewer lines fill the last need to make it ready for new industry,” he added.
SEEDS impact
The SEEDS (Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy) Act is part of Alabama’s long-term commitment to expanding economic opportunity in communities across the state by accelerating site development and enhancing rural competitiveness.
The first two rounds of SEEDS funding totaled over $53 million and supported 56 sites statewide, helping local communities and economic development organizations advance critical site readiness efforts.
Applications for Round 3 of the state’s SEEDS grant program opened on July 1, with a total of $23.2 million available to support site assessment and development efforts across Alabama. The application window closes on Sept. 30.
