Special to 1808Delaware
The Columbus Region has been listed No. 9 on Site Selection magazine’s ‘Top 10 Metro Areas’ list. In years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019 the Columbus Region ranked No. 7, No. 5, No. 8, No. 7, No. 7, and No. 8 respectively.
Ohio’s 507 projects earned the state the No. 2 spot in Site Selection’s overall Governors Cup state ranking – second only to Texas. Ohio also took the No. 4 spot in the per capita ranking.
“Site Selection Magazine’s continued recognition of our Region is a reflection of this community’s tireless determination to innovate and lead in economic development,” said Sue Zazon, board chairwoman of One Columbus. “The companies that launch and expand in the Columbus Region find a welcoming business environment, a wealth of well-educated talent and endless opportunities for growth.”
The Columbus Region earned its ranking among peer metropolitan areas with populations greater than 1 million. New facilities and expansions included in the analyses had to meet at least one of three criteria: involve a capital investment of at least U.S. $1 million, create at least 20 new jobs or add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor area.
Amgen, one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies, announced plans in 2021 to build a new manufacturing facility in New Albany, investing $365 million and creating 400 new jobs upon opening. Post Holdings, a leading consumer packaged goods company, also announced an expansion in the Region in 2021, with plans to invest $86 million open a new 215,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in West Jefferson, creating 200 new jobs over the next four years.
In addition to Columbus, other Ohio cities recognized include Akron, Cincinnati, Dayton, Lima and Toledo.
For more information about Site Selection magazine’s annual awards and to see a full list of the 2021 honorees, visit SiteSelection.com.