Caterpillar, Inc. selects Sanford near Enbridge Gas

The Sanford Area Growth Alliance (SAGA) released a second announcement on the incentivized choice to expand Caterpillar in Sanford, North Carolina.

On Sept. 30, Caterpillar Inc. announced that it plans to construct a new modern manufacturing facility in Sanford, North Carolina. Caterpillar has operated in Lee County since 1998 manufacturing skid steer loaders, multi-terrain loaders, and compact track loaders.

Sanford and Lee County competed for this project with multiple other locations.

On Sept. 21, Lee County Commissioners approved a 12-year financial incentive for Caterpillar’s expansion, previously code named Project Paragon, which is anticipated to invest over $1.002 billion and sustain more than 1,950 full-time positions with an average yearly salary of about $65,528. Through General Fund revenues, the county will refund 80% of the company’s yearly property taxes, estimated at $46 million over 12 years.

The Sanford City Council approved an incentive package worth about $39.5 million over 12 years.

The Sanford Area Growth Alliance (SAGA) would like to thank all the individuals and organizations who worked alongside SAGA to assist the company in the site selection process that ultimately resulted in yesterday’s announcement. In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the North Carolina Community College System, Central Carolina Community College, the North Carolina Railroad Company, CSX Corporation, County of Lee, City of Sanford, TriRiver Water, Duke Energy, and Enbridge Gas North Carolina.

Enbridge Gas is the main commercial energy source for the Caterpillar site where the gas company is expanding its services with a 28-mile, 12-inch natural gas pipeline from Siler City to Moncure for industrial business parks, including a data center facility in Lee County and another 6.8 miles away in Chatham County.

Response from State and Local Leaders

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein: “North Carolina is home to the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast, and Caterpillar recognizes what our state brings to the table. I thank Caterpillar for its long-standing partnership and look forward to more economic opportunity coming to Sanford.”

North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley: “Caterpillar’s billion-dollar investment in North Carolina is putting down even deeper roots in Sanford. Their investment is a powerful reflection of the manufacturing excellence, innovation, and opportunity that have become synonymous with North Carolina. Their leadership in creating pathways for the next generation through apprenticeship opportunities is helping prepare our workforce for the future.”

Lee County Board of Commissioners Chair Samantha Martin: “We are excited to welcome this new investment from Caterpillar as Lee County grows its advanced manufacturing ecosystem. With this new, modern, technology-enabled facility, our community is continuing its century-long legacy of excellence in manufacturing. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with Caterpillar, and to many years of partnership with them ahead.”

City of Sanford Mayor Rebecca Salmon: “The new Caterpillar facility being built in the City of Sanford represents a transformative investment in our community. Not only will Caterpillar’s expansion mean exciting career opportunities for our residents, but it will also enhance our ability to invest in all the things that make Sanford a great place to call home. Congratulations, Caterpillar.”

SAGA Board of Directors Chair Chet Mann: “Caterpillar has been an important part of the Sanford and Lee County community for decades, and this historic investment is a tremendous vote of confidence in our people, our workforce and the future of this community. We are grateful to Caterpillar for choosing to continue growing here and to our state and local leaders whose hard work and partnership helped make this investment possible. This is exactly what successful economic development looks like—building strong relationships, supporting great employers and creating an environment where companies like Caterpillar can invest, grow and thrive for generations to come.”

SAGA CEO Jimmy Randolph: “Yesterday’s announcement by Caterpillar marks the culmination of months of tireless effort on the part of SAGA and countless community partners to make the case for Sanford and Lee County as the best possible site for this innovative new facility. We look forward to working alongside this legacy Lee County employer as we embark on an exciting new chapter together.”

Oct. 1, 2026

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