By Karen Robes Meeks
The Merced County Board of Supervisors has entered into an agreement with the Port of Los Angeles that will pave the way for business development opportunities in the Mid-California International Trade District at Castle Commerce Center and Castle Airport.
“This is an unprecedented opportunity for Merced County,” said Daron McDaniel, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “This is a long-term vision and another step in our continued effort to develop Castle, but if we can make it happen, it has the potential to bring substantial economic activity and jobs to this County.”
The agreement, which will include the creation of a joint business development plan and an effort to conduct exporter outreach in the Central Valley, aims to develop Castle into a manufacturers’ hub and leverage their access to BNSF Railway and proximity to highways and the airport.
“We are honored and excited to enter into this agreement and strengthen our trade connection with Merced County, the Mid-California International Trade District and the greater Central Valley,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “This MOA not only paves the way for collaboration, it will give Central Valley shippers more awareness, support and access to global markets through a broad network of high frequency shipping line services.”