Metrolina Greenhouses receives green light on expansion

Metrolina Greenhouses in Huntersville, N.C., has received approval on a zoning change that will allow the grower to expand its facilities by 1.5 million square feet. The Charlotte Observer reported that on December 20 the Huntersville Board of Commissioners approved the rezoning of 132 acres of land for the expansion.
Company president Art Van Wingerden told the newspaper grading of the land for the expansion should be completed by the end of 2011. Construction is expected to begin in 2011 or 2012 depending on market conditions. The company, which currently employs 500 full time workers, is expected to hire an additional 35 workers with the expansion.