Publix can now fulfill its N.C. distribution center plans

Lakeland, Fla.-based Publix Super Markets has finally gotten the go-ahead for its planned $400- million distribution center in Greensboro, N.C.

The retailer had been waiting on a water protection variance from officials in eastern Guilford County, Triad Business Journal reports. But on July 10, the Water Quality Committee of the N.C. Environmental Management Commission approved the request to commence construction of the distribution center.

Publix had requested to build on areas within the county's required Jordan Buffer Rules, which prohibits building within 50 feet on either side of a stream — in this case a creek. According to the journal, the company asked for and received permission to "pay for significantly more land to be preserved and protected in the watershed area than the construction project would disturb."

The company says that its new distribution facility will create 1,000 jobs.