SWACO seeks to develop green economy business park

According to the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO), the Columbus, Ohio, region is home to nearly 400 recycling-reliant businesses. These businesses employ 5,000 people and generate $1 billion in annual revenues. To help attract even more green businesses, jobs and revenue to central Ohio, SWACO announced Sept. 17 that it has filed a rezoning application with the city of Grove City, Ohio, to develop 350 acres of land into a “green economy business park.” 

Based upon models around the country and the economic momentum behind utilizing recycled materials, SWACO says the site could create 2,000 to 3,500 manufacturing jobs with good wages and produce between $1.6 million and $4.2 million in local tax revenues and between $350 million and $500 million in capital investment.

Additionally, SWACO says the green economy business park will use research, technology and advanced manufacturing to “bring together the sustainable materials management supply chain, creating a sustainability destination for businesses and workforce alike.” 

“This is a growing sector of the economy that must be accelerated,” SWACO Executive Director Ty Marsh says. “I believe this community has an opportunity to attract and support even more businesses, jobs and investment around recycling and sustainability. That’s why we are confident the time is right time for a green economy business park in central Ohio.” 

“By establishing a green economy business park, SWACO is clearly moving ahead of the traditional model of commercial and industrial development,” Jim Schimmer, director of Franklin County Economic Development and Planning, says. “The ability to retain, attract and grow companies with strong sustainability commitments is critical to attracting the jobs of the future.” 

The greenfield property, owned by SWACO, has existing gas, power, water, sewer and fiber utilities. The site is currently zoned for industrial use, however, SWACO is seeking a zoning modification that would allow for more modern use of the site, which is aligned with SWACO’s goal to leverage the waste stream for greater economic opportunity. 

If approved through Grove City’s rezoning process, SWACO says the green economy business park will position the region as an economic leader in the emerging market for recyclables and sustainable manufacturing.

A decision on the rezoning application is expected in December.