Union County approves $4.86M grant for $200M Project 7 expansion

The Union County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on July 14, 2025, where significant developments regarding local economic growth were discussed. The meeting highlighted two major topics: the approval of a new Dollar General Fresh Market and a substantial economic development incentive grant for a confidential project known as Project 7.

The first topic involved the proposed Dollar General Fresh Market, which aims to provide fresh produce and meats to residents in Southern Union County. The project has received approval from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) for a new driveway design, which will be relocated further south as per DOT's request. This new market concept is part of Dollar General's larger prototype, measuring approximately 12,480 square feet, and is expected to alleviate congestion in Monroe by offering essential goods closer to home. Local resident Tim Keziah expressed strong support for the project, urging the commissioners to approve it.

The second major discussion centered on Project 7, a confidential company seeking an economic development incentive grant. The company, which already operates in Union County, plans to expand by constructing a 100,000 square foot facility. This expansion is projected to involve a capital investment of $200 million, marking the largest manufacturing investment in the county's history. The project is expected to create 70 new full-time jobs with an average salary of $75,000, significantly impacting the local economy. To facilitate this expansion, the county is requesting a grant of up to $4.86 million, spread over seven years, which reflects the project's scale and potential benefits.

The commissioners anticipate a decision on the grant within the next four to six weeks, with construction expected to begin by the fourth quarter of this year, pending state approval. The meeting underscored Union County's commitment to fostering economic development and enhancing local job opportunities.