In a ranking published this week, Site Selection magazine placed Montgomery ninth among all Tier 2 metro areas for corporate investment in 2019.

The publication defines Tier 2 metro areas as an economic area that has between 200,000 and 1,000,000 people. The methodology for the ranking was the number of projects in an area that resulted from significant investment by a private company.

Montgomery placed just ahead of the economic areas around Chattanooga, TN, and Greenville, SC.

“We are so pleased to be recognized by Site Selection for our success in attracting corporate investments to the River Region,” said Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman Arthur Ducote in a statement.

“We have a long history of trusted public-private partnerships between the city, county and local business leaders that creates an inviting business ecosystem. We look forward to attracting more corporate investments in the years to come,” added Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed.

According to data from the Chamber, $1,013,568,764 in industrial capital investments were made in the River Region in 2019, which was the second-best year in the area’s history, behind 2002 when the original Hyundai plant was announced.

The investments made were across 32 companies that project to create 1,222 new jobs.

“Montgomery has a lot to offer,” offered Elton Dean, Montgomery County Commission chairman.

“Partnership is key to the recruitment and retention of business in Montgomery, and we have a proven track record of lasting partnerships that expand opportunities in our area,” he concluded.

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: henry@new-yhn.local or on Twitter @HenryThornton95.