Jafza International, the global free zone operations arm of Economic Zones World today announced that it has appointed Florida-based Applied Technology & Management, Inc. (ATM) to provide programme management and development support services for the first phase of its Logistics and Distribution Park in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. ATM, a costal, environmental, marine and water resources engineering, design and consulting firm, will also assist Jafza International in its efforts to preserve and protect the Orangeburg County environment with the development of baseball fields and public parks, as well as nature trails winding through extensive green space. Mrs. Salma Hareb, CEO Jafza and Economic Zones World said: “Preservation and protection of the environment is one of the key elements of Jafza, Economic Zones World, and parent company Dubai World’s business strategy. Wherever we operate, we make sure that we protect the environment, and maintain a balance between our developments and nature.” The logistics park, which is Jafza International’s first in the US, is projected to create 8,000 to 10,000 jobs for the local community, and attract private investment of about $1.2 billion. As programme manager, ATM will initially be responsible for assisting Jafza with the implementation of key environmental, land, market, and business planning as well as transportation and engineering studies. ATM will also provide master programme scheduling, assist with securing key consultants, and provide cash flow analyses, regulatory agency permitting services and overall programme management. Chuck Heath, Managing Director, Jafza International said: “The project is the cornerstone of Jafza’s venture into the United States, and South Carolina is part of a wider network of logistics and distribution parks. Our selection of ATM, one of the leading consultants in programme management for large-scale projects also shows the level of our commitment to Orangeburg County and the project.” “Jafza’s entry into the United States is a unique opportunity that benefits not only Orangeburg County, South Carolina, but the southeastern US as a whole. Jafza International’s vision will create numerous opportunities for job creation not just in the logistics and manufacturing arena but also in engineering and operational support businesses. Such opportunity may not have developed in South Carolina without Jafza,” he added. Jafza International has set up Jafza South Carolina LLC to manage and run the project.