WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Kia Considers West Point Plant

Kia Considers West Point Plant

West Point residents are getting ready for what may be a huge boost to the town's economy. Kia, the Korean auto manufacturer, is said to have its sights set on this small West Georgia town. If that happens, it will bring 2,500 jobs and a $1.2 billion plant.

"It's a perfect location, and I've wondered for several years why somebody didn't come in here and tap us as they've done down in Opelika and Auburn and places like that. Maybe this is our break," said John Tidwell, a West Point resident.

West Point is right on I-85 at the state line. It's also in the middle of Atlanta and Montgomery where Kia's parent company, Hyundai, has a plant. Opelika mayor Gary Fuller said if the company chooses West Point, East Alabama will also reap the rewards.

"They know we already have a presence in the automotive supply business with Mando, Bentler and Maxforma. Of course, Auburn has some automotive suppliers," said Fuller.

West Point's immediate neighbors, Lanett and Valley are also in a prime position to benefit from an automotive plant. Especially with textile mills disappearing from the area.

"This will be a tremendous boost for our area because textile has been king for a hundred years or more. We just happen to all be living in a time when we're seeing, for lack of a better term, the death nail," said Joel Holley, Lanett city manager.

News Leader 9 has spoken with several officials from Georgia and Alabama since Monday. While no one from Georgia is commenting on the negotiations, Alabama Development Director Neal Wade said if they can't get the Kia plant in this state, they'll do what they can to get it close to Alabama's borders.

--Written by: Brock Parker