Rome and Floyd County leaders have been recognized by the Georgia Economic Developers Association with its Deal of the Year, in the medium category, for landing the Lowe’s Regional Distribution Center.

Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce President Al Hodge and Economic Development Director Heather Seckman accepted the award during the association’s annual awards program in Savannah on Wednesday evening.

The award recognizes outstanding achievement in the location or expansion of new businesses in the state of Georgia that meet community economic development goals and involve significant community program support.

The Lowe’s Regional Distribution Center is expected to employ nearly 600 people within the next three years. The project is also expected to hasten the widening of Ga. 140 from Ga. 53 in Shannon to Interstate 75 in Adairsville. That will enhance the attractiveness of the new North Floyd Industrial Park at the intersection of Ga. 53 and Ga. 150 northeast of Rome.

“Lowe’s has already proven to be worthy of all the due diligence that went into securing this project,” said Chamber Chairman of the Board of Directors Angie Lewis, president and CEO of Citizens First Bank.

Rome Mayor Evie McNiece and County Commission Chairman Irwin Bagwell also expressed pride in the recognition of efforts to attract Lowe’s, an effort that took as long as four years.

Chamber officials also expressed a special thanks to Gov. Nathan Deal and other state leaders for their efforts on behalf of new jobs for Rome and Floyd County.