2024 has been a year of growth, new announcements, expanding employment opportunities, and a shifting landscape in Sanford and Lee County. While the year brought unexpected setbacks and job losses, our community and economy have demonstrated resilience and continue to move forward. Below is a condensed highlight reel of 2024.
Expansion is underway at some of our largest employers, with hiring signs visible throughout the county. Opportunities for our workforce abound as industry continues to grow. A notable milestone this year was Kyowa Kirin’s $520 million investment in a new manufacturing facility, which is expected to bring 102 jobs to Sanford. Hiring for these positions has already begun, reflecting the project’s positive impact on the local economy.
Our existing industries have also contributed significantly to Lee County’s growth. Astellas Gene Therapies, located in the Central Carolina Enterprise Park, is advancing an expansion project. Nearby, Bharat Forge has doubled its manufacturing space and is actively recruiting for positions in their newly constructed facility. A recent tour of Bharat Forge’s expanded operations highlighted their adoption of best practices and lessons learned to enhance efficiency and innovation in this second production facility.
Caterpillar, Lee County’s largest private employer, continues to grow exponentially. Following their acquisition of the former GKN Driveline building, Caterpillar is increasing production capacity through this expansion, further solidifying their 26-year presence in Sanford.
Smaller manufacturers are also playing a critical role in the region’s economic success. Wind Solutions, now part of IPS, recently expanded their facility to support growth. In Jonesboro, an old facility is being revitalized to house Cashion Rods, which plans to relocate from 15-501 to the renovated space in 2025. This new facility will include a larger warehouse, increased manufacturing capacity, and an expanded showroom, positioning it as a key destination in Jonesboro.
While growth has been a dominant theme, the community has faced challenges, including layoffs and facility closures. Pfizer’s discontinuation of its Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) Gene Therapy program led to workforce reductions at its Lee County site. In response, SAGA collaborated with Pfizer to support displaced employees by organizing job fairs and connecting them to local employers where their skills could be effectively utilized. Pfizer, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and life sciences, marked 175 years of innovation this year, and the community remains optimistic about future projects and opportunities at the Sanford facility.
The closure of Parkdale Mills highlighted the importance of having a diverse industrial base in Lee County. SAGA worked diligently to connect affected employees with human resource representatives from local manufacturers. Many displaced workers were able to transition quickly to new roles at area facilities. SAGA’s partnership for job placement efforts with Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) helped to connect other displaced employees to upskilling and career path training.
Economic stability is not only about creating jobs; it’s about ensuring a high quality of life through thoughtful growth. Growth doesn’t necessarily mean “bigger and more.” It can mean higher wages, broader opportunities for residents, and strategic planning to preserve farmland and conserve natural areas. Efforts to identify alternate areas for industry and housing that align with community needs are underway. Additionally, urban uplift and infill development remain priorities, helping to sustain balanced and meaningful progress.
As we reflect on 2024, it’s clear that Lee County’s commitment to resilience, innovation, and collaboration will continue to drive success in the years ahead.
Crystal Gaddy, Business Retention and Expansion Director