Deadline passes for Costco site completion

Catoosa County wasn't able to sign papers at the deadline for its share of the work for a coming Costco Wholesale club, but officials say the project is on track.

"Everything's on schedule," said Catoosa County Commission Chairman Keith Greene.

In February, Catoosa County announced plans for $4.6 million worth of improvements to 16 acres of land off Cloud Springs Road near Interstate 75. Costco Wholesale has said it will build a 142,000 square feet warehouse club on the property, with store expected to employ about 150 initially.

Monday was to be the official project completion date when the county would sign the property over to the Washington state-based retail giant. Earlier this month, officials signed an agreement with Costco allowing crews to begin utility work and other aspects of construction.

Mr. Greene said the county would sign the documents today.

"This is a day we've been waiting on," Fort Oglethorpe Mayor Ronnie Cobb said.

Attempts to reach a Costco spokesman Monday were unsuccessful, but officials have said construction will take 110 days once they own the property. One hundred days from Monday is Sept. 12, but Mr. Cobb said the agreement allowing early access could shorten the company's time frame and get the store open a little earlier.

Costco officials have previously stated their desire to open as early as late August to cash in on back-to-school shopping.

Catoosa County Commissioner Ken Marks said the county did its final inspection Friday and signing the documents should be little more than a formality.

"As far as I know, we're in business," he said. "I think we're a little bit ahead (of schedule) but I won't swear to it."

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