BENSON — The Town of Benson Board of Commissioners has voted to approve joining the I-95/ I-40 Crossroads of America Economic Development Alliance beginning in Fiscal Year 2025.
The Alliance was formed several years ago by the City of Dunn and the Town of Four Oaks with a mission to enhance the economic wellbeing of the region through sustainable job creation and strategic workforce development partnerships.
“The Alliance leadership looks forward to the next steps in getting Benson on the team and to make Benson a more competitive place for new industry investment,” said Harold Keen, Board Chairman.
“The Alliance and Benson leaders understand the importance of having good paying jobs within our own communities so that those who live here may also work here. Both parties feel that working together makes us all stronger and better,” he said.
The organization has a Board of Directors comprised of elected officials from its member municipalities, private business leaders, and county representatives. Since its formation, the Alliance has assisted in the recruitment of new industries, establishing new industrial parks, planning and construction of two new workforce development centers, and advocating for additional infrastructure resources in both Dunn and Four Oaks.
“The reason for Benson joining the Alliance is because of our close proximity to one another,” explained Benson Mayor Jerry Medlin. “It’s important that Benson is a contributor to this. With having Harnett and Johnston counties working together, I think it will make a lot of difference — especially when industry is looking to establish itself in this area. Working together will be a big advantage,” he added.
