Video: Aberdeen Economic Groundbreaking

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ABERDEEN, Miss. (WCBI) – A groundbreaking ceremony at Stinson Industrial Park in Aberdeen signals the start of economic development on the 145 acres next to the bankruptcy court.

Developers of will be known as The Courts Plaza are counting on success as they move forward with phase one of the $135 million project.

The latest business move is expected to initially produce between 150 and 300 jobs.

“Basically the way it looks right now most of the important pieces are in place, the city has made the committment, we have the contracts and stuff in place,” said Dwight Nichols, C & D Enterprises.

The latest in technology is being brought to the mix, its a solar energy initiative.

“It will go up to 25 megawatts. We’ll start with five to ten megawatts and this will basically create income to support the development,” said Tony Ewing, Ewing Solar.

“So we are going to get in and basically partner with a great group that can bring solar as a new model for the country,” said Todd Berthelot, Sun Corporation.

For right now, on the site…..a solar field, business center, restaurant, and two hotels.

“The hotel supply is needed here and we are going to bring a lot to the table in terms of our brand strength and marketing and reservations delivery etc. So we’re excited to be a part of the team and be on the ground level,” said Brian Parker, Choice Hotels International.

“You know if you can use green energy and get away from fossil fuel that’s the wave of the future,” added Berthelot.

“Its a great day to be green in the state of Mississippi,” addes Ewing.

The Courts Plaza development project is expected to be done in three phases and take about 10 years to finish.