ARKANSAS – YOU’LL LOVE THIS ‘HOLY GRAIL’ OF INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS

ARKANSAS INDUSTRIAL – PINE BLUFF PROJECTS – 2025
From: Marie Cappello, Broker, Argossy International.

Pine Bluff Industrial Report: The GTL Superproject Accelerates

The “holy grail” of industrial projects is finally moving. What was once a concept is now a concrete reality,
and it’s poised to transform the industrial landscape of Jefferson County and beyond. This is more than
a single plant; it’s a catalyst for a new era of industrial growth.

• Project: GTL Americas (GTLA).
  • Location: 13 miles north of Pine Bluff, on an 1,800-acre site.
  • Contractor: Hyundai ENG America, Inc., in a joint venture with S&B Engineers and Constructors.
  • Timeline:
    • Permitting: Final air construction permit issued. A major hurdle cleared.
    • Construction: Site work is expected to begin in the second half of 2025.
    • Completion: Phased completion is targeted for 2029-2030.
  • Cost: Original estimate of $3.5 billion, but officials expect this to rise.
  • Job Creation: 225 permanent, high-paying jobs. A staggering 2,500 construction jobs.
• Industrial Impact:
  • Logistics: The facility’s ability to utilize truck, rail, and marine barge transport is a massive
    draw. The Port of Pine Bluff will see a significant increase in activity.
  • Supply Chain: This project will require a vast network of suppliers, creating opportunities
    for ancillary businesses.
  • Land Values: Industrial land values around the site are set to increase dramatically.
  • Investor Confidence: The involvement of major international firms like Hyundai and Hanwha Petrochemicals,
    along with the Arkansas Teachers Retirement Fund, signals strong financial backing and credibility.
  • Strategic Location: Arkansas was chosen for its central U.S. location, access to transportation infrastructure,
    and being outside the hurricane zone. This is a powerful selling point for future industrial tenants.
  • The Bottom Line: Pine Bluff is no longer just a “contender” for a major project. It is now the future site of
    a landmark industrial facility. The economic ripple effects will be felt across the state, driving demand for
    industrial properties, skilled labor, and related services for years to come.