Amazon is building a new robotics fulfillment center in Goochland County, Virginia, and it’s expected to bring more than 1,000 jobs to the area. Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the news, calling the project “a resounding affirmation of Virginia’s business-friendly environment and the quality of our workforce.”
The facility, known as RIC6, will be 3.1 million square feet with a 650,000-square-foot building footprint. It’s being built on a 107-acre site at 2022 Ashland Road.
“Amazon’s continued expansion in Virginia is a testament to the collaboration between state, regional and local partners who are committed to smart, strategic growth,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “This project is the result of long-term planning in Goochland County and strong infrastructure investments by the Commonwealth.”
The center will handle small items like books, toys, and electronics, with employees using robotics technology to pick, pack, and ship orders. Amazon already operates robotics fulfillment centers in Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Henrico County.
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“We’re proud to officially break ground on our fourth robotics fulfillment center in the commonwealth, furthering our substantial investment in Virginia,” said Holly Sullivan, Amazon’s Vice President of Worldwide Economic Development and Public Policy. “This new 3.1 million-square-foot fulfillment center represents our commitment to innovation and job creation right here in Virginia.”
Transportation planning was a key part of this project. The state and Goochland County secured funding to build a new diverging diamond interchange at Ashland Road, located less than a mile from the new facility. “Having the right transportation infrastructure is essential to attracting and growing business,” said Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III.
Since 2010, Amazon has invested over $135 billion in Virginia, creating more than 42,000 direct jobs and supporting another 195,000 in related industries. The company has also added Whole Foods stores, Amazon Fresh locations, and Same-Day delivery sites across the state.
State Senator Luther Cifers said, “Amazon chose well thanks to Governor Youngkin’s leadership in making Virginia the best place to do business and to Goochland County’s incredible work over the last 15 years or so that have made it one of the best places in Virginia to live and work.”
