Governor Laura Kelly today broke ground at the Heartland Logistics Park in Shawnee, Kansas. The project has the potential to employ more than 1,500 Kansans, will allow goods to be delivered across the nation more efficiently, and will foster future economic growth in our state.

“Bringing job opportunities to Kansas is always cause for celebration, but the timing of this will also contribute to our economic recovery efforts,” Governor Kelly said. “Not only is logistics a growing market – it’s also a sustainable one. This project is exactly what our state needs right now to boost the morale of the region and give hope to Kansans that we will get through this time stronger than before.”

This project is partnership among the City of Shawnee, the Shawnee Economic Development Council, the developer, Blue Shawnee, and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).

“The Heartland Logistics Park will allow goods to be delivered more efficiently, which benefits all of us,” Governor Kelly said. “The growth of e-commerce will only continue to increase demand for faster delivery speeds making the logistics industry even more vital in the future.”

Governor Kelly was joined by the Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz and Commerce Secretary David Toland to celebrate the new project.

Through its economic development program, KDOT provided approximately $4.2 million to allow infrastructure improvements on K-7, 43rd Street and Clare Road, which were necessary for the logistics park to locate in the area.

“Transportation investments should serve people and our economy,” Secretary Lorenz said. “These infrastructure improvements will make travel safer, create new job opportunities and support long-term economic growth. KDOT is honored to have played a role in bringing this project to Kansas and will continue to seek partnering opportunities under our new transportation program, IKE, to contribute to our economic recovery.”

“Kansas is the perfect place to put down roots that reach the world. We’re excited to see the Heartland Logistics Park provide a prime opportunity for businesses to do just that — and put a lot of Kansans to work in the process,” Secretary Toland said. “The Heartland Logistics Park venture is proof that our geographic position and infrastructure make Kansas the ideal place to invest. We’re geared up to welcome rapid growth in many vital areas: logistics, distribution, inventory management, manufacturing, transportation, e-commerce fulfillment and more in the new normal we’re experiencing across the economy.”

Below are photos available for media use:

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