Port Authority looking into purchasing land

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- The Port Authority is looking into purchasing land east of Zanesville to bring businesses and jobs to Muskingum County.

Port Authority Executive Director Matt Abbott said Muskingum County is taking advantage of the resources the area has to offer. He said when looking at possible land options, being near Interstate 70 was a strong consideration due to it being a driver for economic development.

“It gives companies access to markets very quickly. So, that was something we took into account when looking at sites within our county. We also took into account the necessary infrastructure required by companies that we saw. Not only looking at our county but, in our region,” said Abbott.

Abbott said as the Port Authority continues looking at what land it wants to purchase, it weights the importance of the land being ready for companies to start immediately.

“Businesses, that look at our community they want zero risks. They want zero risks of location their business and company here. So by zero risks they want things ready to go as far as infrastructure through the site, they want access to the site, they want access to transportation. So they want a site where they can come in, purchase today and start building tomorrow,” said Abbott.

Abbott said if the land purchases occur, it will lead to more businesses coming to Muskingum County which will provide more jobs to residents.