As a site selector, I have learned that infrastructure is one of the most critical components in the evaluation process—often serving as the foundation upon which long-term success is built. Infrastructure encompasses roads, bridges, utilities, broadband connectivity, water and wastewater systems, rail access, energy reliability, and more. A community’s ability to support the current and future logistical needs of a business can directly influence the decision to invest in a location.
Companies are looking for certainty and scalability. They want to know if the infrastructure in place today can not only support their immediate operational needs but also accommodate future expansion. For example, an advanced manufacturing facility may require high-voltage electric service, robust water capacity, and multimodal transportation access. If those assets are already available—or if a local government has a realistic plan to deliver them—then that community is more likely to rise to the top of a prospect’s list.
Moreover, the quality of infrastructure signals a region’s readiness for economic growth. Well-maintained roads, modern utility systems, and reliable internet access demonstrate that a community is forward-thinking and actively investing in its own development. Infrastructure moves goods and services and conveys a message about a community’s priorities and capacity for partnership. For site selectors like myself, that message often makes the difference between “maybe” and “yes.”
— Dr. Nicole Wadsworth
Site Selection and Economic Development Consultant
Alabama