The Thomaston-Upson County Industrial Development Authority announced McCoy Grading was awarded the $1.1 million contract to build the rail spur to serve Innoware Plastics and future businesses in the Central Georgia Business and Technology Park.

"I think we're going to build a railroad track," said TUCIDA chairman Neil Hightower.

The project is being financed by grants from OneGeorgia, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and $500,000 from the TUCIDA. Innoware Plastics is also contributing financially to the project.

To receive the OneGeorgia grant and Department of Community Affairs Employment Incentive Program, Innoware Plastics has committed to increase employment by the addition of 30 full-time jobs and to invest $6.6 million in capital additions by 2011.

"This is a win-win for Thomaton and Upson County and Innoware Plastics," Hightower said. "The authority is pleased to have this opportunity to work with a local industry and simultaneously improve transportation into the Central Georgia Business and Technology Park."

"It has been a long trip, but we've got it," said commission chairman Maurice Raines. He thanked Hightower and attorney Ronald Barfield for their efforts to make the railroad spur a reality.

Hightower said board members did a lot of work on the project before he took the helm.

"It's not done yet, but we're about to get it done," he said.

The board also agreed to look into the concept of getting Thomaston-Upson County GRAD (Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development) certified. It would make Upson better prepared to compete for industry at a state level. As a result of such a grant, local officials would have more detailed information for prospects.

Community Enterprises donated $15,000 to the IDA, which could be used toward the GRAD project or be put into other promotions.

The board also approved a MEAG temporary construction easement.