In January 2017, BNSF Railway Company selected Gallup Energy Logistics Park (GELP) in Gallup, NM as one of six new certified rail sites, recognized for its development potential. The BNSF Site Certification program not only recognizes these sites for their growth potential but also features them on certain BNSF marketing materials and helps connect them with new economic development opportunities.
GELP is one of two New Mexico certified sites, joining Central New Mexico Rail Park in Los Lunas, NM. Four other sites named in January include AgriTech Park in Great Falls, MT, Ameripointe Logistics Park in Ardmore, OK, Commerce Center of Southeast Iowa in Middletown, IA and John W. Kelsey Business and Technology Park in Greenville, IL. These six newly-certified sites are among only ten sites nationwide.
According to a press release from BNSF Railways, factors that were analyzed while making the site selection included the availability of utilities and public services, site access to highways, proper industrial zoning and land ownership and transparency. GELP was selected because of its central location, existing and planned state investment and a planned expansion of up to 2,500 acres.
On February 9, 2017, New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez announced the selection of GELP and Central New Mexico Rail Park and recognized the potential the Gallup site brought to the state’s economic development opportunities. Governor Martinez noted that one of the state’s top priorities is becoming a leader in commerce and trade, and stated the value of the certification in helping New Mexico become a leader in national and international business.
Robert Roche 