By Nicky Smith
February 28, 2025
Greensboro has long been known as the “Gate City”—a strategic hub for commerce, transportation, and distribution. With Amazon’s recent purchase of 85 acres on Ritters Lake Road, it’s clear that national companies continue to recognize our city’s logistical advantages. While this development may not bring a surge of high-paying jobs, it solidifies Greensboro’s role as a critical link in the national supply chain.
Amazon’s acquisition of 85.25 acres for $12.1 million suggests another major fulfillment or logistics facility could be in the works. While company representatives have not yet disclosed specific plans, the land’s location and zoning point to large-scale distribution. If confirmed, this would add to Amazon’s existing footprint in the region, which includes:
This expansion underscores Greensboro’s strength as a logistics hub. Its easy access to I-85, I-40, and the PTI Airport make it an attractive location for major distribution centers.
While Amazon’s move may not create many high-paying jobs, it does reinforce a critical truth—Greensboro is a city built for logistics. Our location, workforce, and infrastructure make us a prime destination for companies needing efficient access to the Southeast and beyond.
The Ritters Lake Road site, marketed as the Ritters Logistics Center @ I-85, was already positioned for industrial development. The proposed 1.05 million square feet of Class A space suggests that Greensboro is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for major companies seeking large-scale distribution operations.
For Greensboro, this deal is another example of why we must continue investing in infrastructure and economic growth strategies. Projects like the Highway 421 Land-Use Study, the GSO2040 Comprehensive Plan, and the new SelectGreensboro.com website are key to ensuring our city remains competitive in attracting businesses across industries—not just in logistics but also in manufacturing, technology, and advanced industries that bring high-wage jobs.
Amazon’s investment may not be a game-changer in terms of job creation, but it strengthens the city’s economic foundation. As we continue to grow, Greensboro must balance its role as a logistics powerhouse with efforts to attract higher-wage opportunities that benefit our residents in the long term.
Greensboro’s future is bright, and as always, I remain committed to ensuring that our city’s growth benefits everyone.
Let’s build the future our city deserves. Greensboro is ready for a new era—let’s get to work.
Donate today, and let’s choose Greensboro’s future. Together, we can ensure that our city thrives for generations to come. Your voice matters—your vote matters—your support matters. Let’s make it count.
– Nicky Smith
Candidate for Greensboro City Council, District 4
