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What Makes a Site ‘Shovel-Ready’?

What Makes a Site ‘Shovel-Ready’?

Here's What FCIDA Delivers on Day One

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When speed-to-build can make or break a project, the phrase “shovel-ready” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a bottom-line necessity.

At the Fulton County Industrial Development Agency (FCIDA), we understand that delays in permitting, utility access, or approvals can add costs, derail timelines, and frustrate stakeholders. That’s why we’ve invested in making “shovel-ready” a reality, not a promise.

Whether you’re a manufacturing COO, a site selector, a real estate developer, or a biotech entrepreneur, here’s exactly what FCIDA delivers the moment you say “go.”

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1. Fully Permitted, Zoned, and Ready for Development

Many industrial parks advertise readiness but still require months of zoning adjustments or environmental reviews. Not us.

Zoned for industrial and commercial use

Environmentally cleared

Free from regulatory encumbrances that delay construction

That means you don’t need to wait for bureaucratic boxes to be checked—we’ve already done that.

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2. Infrastructure in Place—Utilities, Roads, and Connectivity

We’ve invested in the infrastructure so you don’t have to. Our sites include:

3-phase power and backup-capable electrical infrastructure

Water and wastewater systems with ample capacity

Natural gas, fiber broadband, and stormwater management systems

Fully built access roads and internal circulation paths

You won’t spend time—or money—on trenching or waiting for connections.

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3. Fast-Tracked Approvals in 60–90 Days

In most regions, permits and incentive approvals can drag out for months. FCIDA works differently. We’ve streamlined our processes with local municipalities to provide:

Permit reviews and site plan approvals in 60-90  days

A single point of contact to coordinate across departments

Pre-aligned utility partners and inspection protocols

Because we know: time kills deals.
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4. Workforce Development in Motion

 Infrastructure is important, but so is the talent to operate within it. FCIDA collaborates with local colleges and training centers to ensure a skilled workforce is ready when your facility opens.

From customized training programs to pre-hiring pipelines, we help employers hit the ground running.

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5. Support Services—Before, During, and After You Break Ground

Being shovel-ready isn’t just about land. It’s about leadership.
Our team offers:

Site tours and due diligence support

Help coordinating with engineers, architects, and vendors

Post-approval assistance with grant programs, job credits, and recruitment

Long-term partnership as your business scales

We’re not here just for ribbon cuttings—we’re here for the long haul.

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Why It Matters

In today’s competitive landscape, companies can’t afford costly missteps or avoidable delays. Choosing a truly shovel-ready site through FCIDA means:

Faster time-to-revenue

Lower upfront risk

Predictable budgeting and development milestones

Whether you’re looking to relocate, expand, or build from scratch, our sites are more than ready—they’re built for momentum.

Ready to Evaluate Sites?

Let’s get you everything you need—site maps, infrastructure specs, tax incentive models, and a guided tour.