Greater Spokane Incorporated's Statement on Caterpillar's Spokane Distribution Center
June 23, 2011

(Spokane, Wash.) - Rich Hadley, President and CEO of Greater Spokane Incorporated, issued the following statement on the announcement by Caterpillar's Logistics Services, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc., that it has chosen Spokane, Washington for a new parts distribution center. The planned half million square foot facility will be located on the West Plains, with construction to begin this summer:

"Caterpillar's announcement is significant news for the entire region. The company came to our Economic Development team earlier this year for assistance with site section and an incentive portfolio.

Having competed with several other communities for the distribution center, Greater Spokane Incorporated is proud of the intensive, collaborative efforts of the Governor and Washington State Department of Commerce, Spokane County, the City of Spokane, the various utilities, the private property owners, and the Spokane International Airport to convey the advantages Spokane offers. The region's great transportation infrastructure, competitively priced available sites, along with incentives from the state and county, were factors in Caterpillar's decision."
 
Al French, Chair, Spokane County Board of Commissioners, concurred "The announcement today by Caterpillar is great news for our community. Bringing more jobs to this community is one of the County's highest priorities.  We all worked together to provide the highest level of responsiveness and support to ensure that this company selected Spokane County for their new location."
 
Spokane Mayor Mary Verner added, "The City of Spokane is proud to partner on this project as the provider of water and sewer service.  I have focused this year on strategies to help grow the economy and create jobs.  We came together as a region to do just that, and our entire community will benefit.  So, on behalf of the citizens of the City, welcome Caterpillar."
 
This economic development win confirms Spokane's place as the business hub of the Inland Northwest. The region welcomes the expanded footprint of a Fortune 100 Company and the creation of 100 to 150 new jobs.
 
Read Caterpillar's press release.
Read Governor Christine Gregoire's press release.
 
All media requests should be directed to:
Bridget M. Young
Corporate Public Affairs
Caterpillar, Inc.
309.675.8463
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