UIPA & Iron County announce framework for first rural inland port project area

Iron County Commissioners adopted a resolution today to begin the creation of an Inland Port Project Area in Iron County. The Project Area will be part of the Commerce Crossroads Logistics Park in partnership between Iron County, Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA), and Commerce Crossroads. The area targeted for regional economic growth and the new Project Area designation provides heightened coordination between Iron County and UIPA, as well as an anticipated loan for logistics infrastructure. Commerce Crossroads will play the role of developer and owner for this project.

"We're very excited to participate in this project in coordination with our state and local leaders,” said James Barlow, CEO of Commerce Crossroads. “Our goal is to bring high-value opportunities to the region that are current, vibrant, and sustainability-focused."

UIPA and Iron County Economic Development Director Danny Stewart presented the process of the proposal to Iron County Commissioners today, which includes additional public meetings in the coming months. UIPA will also assess the environmental state of the land and surrounding area prior to the final adoption of the Project Area.

"Iron County is a tremendous model for the state as they continue to focus on their future and ensure economic success for future generations," said Ben Hart, Executive Director of UIPA. "We look forward to partnering with the County and Commerce Crossroads to optimize economic growth across the entire southwestern Utah region."

As a state entity, UIPA has a unique role to coordinate a statewide economic development and logistics system to ensure long-term sustainability and statewide value. The Iron County Project Area would be the first rural location as part of UIPA statewide system.