Wright County, Iowa, Economic Development Director Dennis Bowman and Hamilton County Supervisor Doug Bailey talked to the Wright County Board of Supervisors about a proposed 280-acre business park in Hamilton County with access to the Canadian National Railway, the Belmond Independent reports.

"This project includes a program tied to rail and wind energy that could have an impact on Wright County," said Bowman.

Bailey said Hamilton County has an option on land one mile west of Blairsburg just off R-38 (near Stonega).

"The area has been approved by the Canadian National Railway, and we are in the process of applying for both a state and a federal grant," he said. The total cost of the project is estimated just under $13 million.

"Local industries need a site where they can off-load bulk materials to be trucked a short distance," said Bailey. "The location has almost immediate potential as a rail site. Building lots would be the second phase of the project. The CN would act as a marketing agency once the load site is open because it is to their advantage to have businesses in place."

Bailey said the rail access would be open to any industry. "Initially the project would not employ anyone. But other such developments employ up to 50 people."

Supervisor Stan Watne asked Bailey what he wants from Wright County.

"I am here to secure a letter of support that we can turn in with both the state and the federal grant applications," Bailey replied. "I would also ask that you consider participating in funding of the preliminary costs."

Bowman questioned Bailey about what Wright County could expect to receive in return for financial support.

"It is possible that a separate government entity would be established to oversee the load site. In that case, the revenue would be shared," said Bailey.

The board agreed to write a letter of support.