Trade Center Could Boost Economy

By Gan Matthews, NEWS 9

PURCELL, Oklahoma -- Both Purcell and McClain Counties are gearing up for a new trade center along I-35 and hoping it's a big economic boost to the area.

There's little to see at the I-35/Highway 59 exit south of Purcell. But someday it may have an Oklahoma Trade Center-- a new concept in highway development.

"This is something that's never been done before, so it's beyond anything that exists today," said Mark Alfonso with the Heart of Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce.

Yes, it's a truck stop, but it's much more than that.

"You almost get the feeling that you're arriving at a resort," Alfonso said.

McClain County has been dreaming about this for over a decade.

"We envisioned it being a trade center that would just help the economy impact in Oklahoma as well as McClain County," said McClain County Commissioner Benny McGowen.

Last month the Oklahoma Trade Center took a big leap forward, from concept to concrete.

"We have wind power. We have a hotel. We have restaurants," said Charlie Dry with American Gateway,LLC.

McClain County now has a contract with Oklahoma City developer Charlie Dry. He's got a plan, and he's got enthusiasm.

"I caught their vision. I saw their hearts. It got into my heart and I said ‘This will be a great thing for the state of Oklahoma,'" Dry said.

The trade center will also be good for the Department of Homeland Security, which is interested in locating a truck inspection station at the site.

"The projection is that over a period of ten years this will have a $1.5 billion economic impact with great jobs and opportunities for our people," Alfonso said.