By Jack Jacobs
AutoZone is revving up construction on its upcoming distribution center in New Kent.
The national auto parts retailer and distributor held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday for its planned 800,000-square-foot facility in the western part of the county.
“This is going to be the largest distribution center in our network,” Bill Rhodes, AutoZone’s president, CEO and chairman, said during the event.
Construction on the $185.2 million facility is expected to begin next month ahead of a targeted completion in 2025. The distribution center is expected to employ around 350 people.
AutoZone is the first company to break ground at New Kent City Center, a 1,600-acre industrial park located just south of I-64, near its interchange with Route 106.