Atlanta-based developer Pattillo Industrial Real Estate has announced plans to construct a large-scale industrial facility in Anderson County, South Carolina. The project, named Anderson Gateway Commerce Center, aims to address the growing demand for modern industrial space in the state's Upstate region.
The development will initially feature a 248,000-square-foot Class A building designed for manufacturing, assembly, and logistics tenants. Construction is set to begin immediately, with the first phase expected to be completed by the fall of 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Pattillo Industrial Real Estate is developing the Anderson Gateway Commerce Center in Powdersville, SC.
- The project includes an initial 248,000-square-foot building and a site for a future build-to-suit facility of the same size.
- Located at I-85 Exit 40, the site offers direct access to major markets like Atlanta and Charlotte.
- The development aims to create jobs and attract new companies to Anderson County amid a shortage of industrial space.
Addressing a Critical Shortage in the Upstate
The new development is strategically positioned to capitalize on the high demand for industrial real estate in the Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson corridor. Local officials have noted a significant shortage of available Class A industrial facilities, which can hinder efforts to attract new businesses and investment to the area.
"Anderson Gateway reflects the momentum we are seeing across Anderson County," said Tommy Dunn, Anderson County Council Chairman. He explained that with the current lack of available space, the project is a crucial step forward.
"Given the current shortage of available industrial space, Anderson Gateway provides career opportunities for our citizens and magnifies our county’s strategy to attract world-class companies."
The facility is designed to be flexible, accommodating tenants with needs ranging from 50,000 square feet up to the full 248,000 square feet. This adaptability is intended to attract a diverse range of companies, from advanced manufacturing firms to logistics and distribution operators.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Pattillo Industrial Real Estate emphasized its long-term investment in the region. Ben Stafford, a Vice President at the company, highlighted the project's role in stimulating the local economy.
"We are excited to continue our investment in the state of South Carolina and in Anderson County with this development," Stafford stated. "This project represents our commitment to the area to support job growth and employment opportunities for its citizens as well as to drive additional capital investment in the region."
The Growth of the I-85 Corridor
The Interstate 85 corridor, stretching from Alabama to Virginia, has become a critical artery for manufacturing and logistics in the Southeastern United States. Its path through the Carolinas and Georgia connects major metropolitan areas and manufacturing hubs, making adjacent land highly valuable for industrial development. Anderson County's location along this route positions it to benefit from ongoing supply chain and manufacturing trends.
Strategic Location and Facility Specifications
The Anderson Gateway Commerce Center will be located just off Interstate 85 at Exit 40 in Powdersville. This position provides immediate highway access, a key factor for logistics and distribution companies that need to move goods efficiently.
The site offers direct transportation links to several major economic centers, including:
- Greenville/Spartanburg, SC
- Charlotte, NC
- Raleigh/Durham, NC
- Richmond, VA
- Atlanta, GA
This connectivity is a major selling point for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain networks across the Southeast.
Building Features at a Glance
- Total Size: 248,000 square feet
- Configuration: Rear load
- Clear Height: 32 feet
- Sprinkler System: Early Suppression, Fast Response (ESFR)
- Lighting: High-efficiency LED
- Additional Features: Office space and dock levelers included
These specifications are consistent with modern Class A industrial standards, designed to support advanced operations in warehousing and light manufacturing. The inclusion of an ESFR sprinkler system, for example, is critical for tenants storing high-piled goods.
Future Expansion and Long-Term Vision
Beyond the initial building, Pattillo is also preparing an adjacent site for a future build-to-suit (BTS) project. This second phase could accommodate another industrial building up to 248,000 square feet, effectively doubling the center's potential footprint.
The BTS option is designed for companies with specific operational needs that require a custom-designed facility. By preparing the site in advance, the developer can significantly reduce the delivery time for a future tenant, making the location more attractive for time-sensitive projects.
Pattillo Industrial Real Estate, a family-owned company founded in 1950, has a long history of developing industrial properties across the Southeast. The company currently manages a portfolio of buildings and land in seven states, solidifying its position as a major player in the region's commercial real estate market.
The Anderson Gateway Commerce Center represents the company's latest effort to expand its footprint in South Carolina, a state that continues to attract significant industrial and manufacturing investment.
