- Counties selected from Middle and East Tennessee
- The program has now reviewed 516 sites statewide
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) announced today the three counties selected to participate in the latest round of the Select Tennessee Property Evaluation Program (PEP).
The counties are Jackson, Jefferson and Lawrence.
PEP evaluates potential industrial properties, advising counties on industrial site improvements and where investments may be most beneficial. Since its inception in 2015, PEP has helped improve the inventory of industrial sites and buildings across the state, with 516 sites being reviewed.
“Tennessee holds a clear competitive edge in a company’s site selection process because we can offer shovel-ready sites that let businesses hit the ground running,” said Deputy Gov. and TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter. “As Gov. Bill Lee’s administration comes to a close, his commitment to rural Tennessee will leave a lasting impact. We are grateful for his continued support of programs like PEP and look forward to the economic growth this announcement will bring to Jackson, Jefferson and Lawrence Counties.”
The program originates from TNECD’s Select Tennessee Certified Site Program. With assistance from site selection firm Austin Consulting, PEP provides participating counties guidance on site planning for future industrial development projects.
PEP includes an on-site visit by Austin Consulting and TNECD, an educational webinar on the site selection process and a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and needs of each community’s inventory of industrial sites. This assessment also offers recommendations to improve marketability.
“The Property Evaluation Program is an indispensable tool that TNECD makes available to communities, allowing them to build a consensus around which properties offer the most potential to attract future industrial investment and job growth,” said Jonathan Gemmen, senior director at Austin Consulting.
The three counties were selected based on the demonstrated local need for industrial properties and the county’s ability to assemble properties with viable market potential.
The application process begins with a submission of a letter of intent, which is accepted at any time. Upon receipt of the letter, interested communities will receive the PEP application. A new round of communities will be accepted into the program in the with letters of intent due by July 9, 2026.
Visit here to learn more about the program or submit a letter of intent.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
TNECD Media Contact
Chris O’Brien
Public Information Officer
(615) 934-5879
Chris.OBrien@tn.gov
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