Gateway breaks ground on D/C in Ala.

DOTHAN, Ala. — Gateway Tire & Service Center will invest $11 million to build a 200,000-sq.-ft. tire distribution center at the Westgate Industrial Park in in Dothan.

The facility, which is expected to create 30 jobs initially with more in the future, will be expandable to 340,000 square feet, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Company officials and dignitaries held a groundbreaking ceremony for the facility on July 19. It should be in operation by spring 2018.

"The location in Westgate Industrial Park has the key infrastructure for our operation, and we really appreciate the warm welcome and support we have received by the Dothan and Houston County community." Dennis King, vice president of corporate operations for Gateway Tire, said.

Mr. King said the company has received strong support for its project from the Alabama Department of Commerce; the state workforce development agency; and several local entities, including the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce.

Batesville, Miss.-based Gateway Tire, which began in 1929 as Dunlap & Kyle, operates 57 retail stores and 16 wholesale distribution centers in seven states.

"The city of Dothan and Houston County continues to lead the way in creating jobs and supporting economic development progress within the Wiregrass region," Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said.

"Distribution is one of our foundational business targets within Accelerate Alabama 2.0, and we are excited to grow businesses within the vision set forth from our state economic development plan," she added.