BrightFarms, New York, announced plans to build a new 280,000-square-foot hydroponic greenhouse in Hendersonville, N.C. Once complete, the farm will create 54 "green-collar" sustainable agriculture jobs.

The new greenhouse will grow a variety of salad greens and herbs, including spring mix, spinach, baby kale, romaine, arugula and more.

"Today's consumers are searching for produce that's fresher, safer and responsibly grown. It's the reason that locally grown food has become the No. 1 purchase-driver in produce for supermarkets," says Steve Platt, chief executive officer. "We are incredibly grateful for the support from Governor Cooper and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and look forward to bringing local, pesticide-free leafy greens to North Carolina and neighboring states."