(Year in review) Economic bustle, with an upward trend

Published 5:15 am Friday, December 23, 2016

Editor’s note: Today The Times looks back on our No. 9 local story of 2016. 

Cullman’s ongoing industrial growth continued its upward trend throughout most of 2016, welcoming more new and expanded businesses.

Locally-owned Goat Island Brewery made waves in January, becoming the first Cullman-based brewery to open its doors since the city went wet in 2011. It’s become a popular destination in its own right for locals, and the beer continues to make its way into bars and restaurants throughout North Alabama.

Vinemont-based AGCOR Steel announced a major relocation and expansion in October, revealing it would move part of its operation to the Berlin community. The company, which manufactures metal roofing and post frame buildings, said the move would allow it to double its existing workforce of 20 employees.

Also in October, Georgia-based Sequence Health announced it would locate a call center in Cullman, creating a projected 125 total jobs within a five-year span. The self-described “boutique medical contact center” offers patient acquisition, management, and retention solutions within the health care field.

Until the move is complete, the company is temporarily housing its operations at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville. Construction will ramp up soon on a permanent facility, slated to open in August 2017.

Rehau announced yet another round of investment in the community this year for its longtime site in south Cullman.

In August, the company unveiled its plan to invest $5 million as it embarks on entering a new, long-term market segment — appliance gaskets — that will create an expected 50 new jobs in Cullman. The automotive supplier plans to augment its local manufacturing capabilities with the move, which will supply a major refrigerator maker.

Economic development officials have indicated they’re optimistic as they head into 2017. The addition of a new interstate interchange near the city’s southern industrial corridor, officials believe, will prove a strong incentive for new and expanding industries.

Moves to strengthen infrastructure, such as the city-county partnership to secure a long-range plan for the area’s water supply, are also expected to promote growth into the new year and, officials hope, beyond.

Mother Angelica passes, drawing national and world attention is The Times No. 10 story of the year.