Port KC Pushing E-Commerce, Manufacturing Projects

Port KC has adopted a policy to fast-track e-commerce and manufacturing projects in distressed census tracts in an effort to bring more jobs to those areas

The hope is that these quickly approved industrial projects could bring jobs with strong wages to the areas, especially since e-commerce is experiencing double-digit growth annually. It could also bring jobs during a time when COVID-19 is causing mass layoffs. 

“The entire global ecommerce and logistics chain is evolving rapidly,” said Jon Stephens, Port KC president and chief executive officer, in a press release. “As these businesses consider quick expansion to accommodate the needs of today, and tomorrow, it is vital they know we want these quality jobs in KC. It’s also important they know we want projects to hire citizens seeking quality employment and competitive salaries.”

The efforts are being put into place immediately, the Port says.