Drake Brinkley, Chairman of the ENC Alliance Board of Directors and a prominent Ward and Smith commercial real estate attorney, is reflecting on the monumental impact of Boviet Solar's decision to establish a manufacturing presence in Pitt County.
The announcement heralds a new era of economic growth and opportunity for the region, with a $294 million capital investment and the creation of 908 new jobs.
Boviet Solar's selection of Pitt County follows an extensive evaluation process spanning 60 different locations across nine states, according to the press release. Ultimately, Greenville-Pitt County emerged as the ideal destination, praised for its exceptional infrastructure and strategic advantages.
After the announcement, Brinkley expressed his enthusiasm for the collaborative effort that made this feat possible.
Key partners in the project include the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Golden LEAF Foundation, Greenville ENC Alliance, Pitt County, ElectriCities of North Carolina, Greenville Utilities Commission, and City of Greenville.
"This announcement is a testament to what can be achieved when communities, businesses, and government agencies come together with a shared vision," Brinkley stated.
The new manufacturing facility, located at 1125 Sugg Parkway in Greenville, marks Boviet Solar's inaugural manufacturing site in the United States, further cementing the region's reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The creation of over 900 jobs across various sectors, with annual wages exceeding the Pitt County average salary of $50,937, promises to bolster the region's workforce and economic resilience. This achievement keeps a pledge made by Chairman Brinkley upon assuming leadership of the ENC Alliance Board of Directors.
"By fulfilling our commitment and bringing in a wave of jobs and investment, we are not just boosting local economies; we are also igniting innovation and sustainable growth in our region," remarked Brinkley. "This influx of opportunities will not only benefit our workforce but also drive us towards a more prosperous and sustainable future."