The park, located 15 miles north of Macon, is within the expanded Atlanta FTZ zone and is the first in Middle Georgia to receive the designation. Merchandise can be admitted into a FTZ without going through formal US Customs entry procedures or paying import duties, according to IDI.

"For distributors of international goods, FTZ status is a key benefit when seeking a new facility," says Lisa Ward, IDI vice president of leasing in Atlanta. She adds that getting FTZ status is a major differentiator for Meridian 75, which has quick access to the Port of Savannah and a population base of more than 70 million within a day's drive.

Located at Interstate 75 and Rumble Road in Monroe County, an hour south of Atlanta, Meridian 75 will total five build-to-suit and inventory buildings strategically located for local and regional distribution. The business park is projected to add 1,250 jobs with a net payroll of $39 million annually.