Economic Development

Located at the crossroads of two major interstates, Mt. Vernon is a prime location nationally for new or expanding industries. The city currently has two shovel-ready industrial parks located near the I-57/I-64 interchange ready for development. Both industrial parks are great locations for shipping and distribution industries to call home. If looking for a proven success record, look no further than the ever-expanding manufacturing and distribution centers that called Mt. Vernon home for decades.

• Continental Tire of North America: international manufacturer of passenger and light tires for original equipment and replacement markets. Continental Tire is the largest manufacturer in southern Illinois.
• National Railway Equipment: manufactures and rebuilds locomotives for national and international rail systems, as well as full lay of industrial electrical generation systems.
• Walgreens Distribution Center: regional distribution hub to serve and supply their retail chain.
• Magnum Steel: employs state-of-the-art equipment to spot-manufacture custom metal products for industries.

Along with easy access to two major interstates, Mt. Vernon is uniquely situated at the convergence of three major rail lines. Norfolk Southern, Union Pacific and Evansville Western railways converge in the city limits with spurs to all directions. Businesses can ship and receive bulk materials easily and inexpensively nationwide.

Mt. Vernon also features an airport with a 6500-foot runway capable of landing cargo, corporate, charter and recreational planes, as well as fixed-wing and helicopter equipment. Mt. Vernon Outland Airport is a 14 CFR Part 139 airport and maintains an ARFF Index A classification. Support facilities include fueling for all types of equipment, SRT Aviation capable of piston and turbine repairs and amenities for crews and passengers.

Shovel-ready sites are also available for commercial development. A recent expansion of Veterans Memorial Drive and Davidson Avenue was completed opening hundreds of acres for commercial development along two interstate interchanges and near our vibrant retail and hospitality centers. This area is a prime location for retail stores eager for captive shoppers or lodging for weary and hungry travelers. This area is also located within the City of Mt. Vernon Enterprise Zone and a Tax Increment Financing District.

Mt. Vernon has three TIF Districts located within the corporate limits and an Enterprise Zone encompassing most commercial development areas of the city. Both incentive tools are used to encourage new and existing business growth across our community.

Please check out the Jefferson County Development Corporation website for more information on the many reasons you should do business in Mt. Vernon.