Small-package carrier FedEx Ground has broken ground for a new distribution and delivery facility in Overland, Mo.

Scheduled to open in early 2003, the new Overland facility will provide pickup and delivery services to the St. Louis metropolitan area. The company will consolidate its existing facilities in St. Louis and St. Charles, which amount to a combined 92,500 square feet, and relocate them to the new 162,000 square-foot building in Overland.

FedEx Ground first began operations in the St. Louis area in 1985. In 1991, it expanded its local presence with the opening of its St. Charles facility. Combined, these facilities currently have a workforce of approximately 200 employees and independent contractors, which will increase once the new facility is operational.

The new facility is part of a three-year, $500-million expansion investment that will increase the capacity of FedEx Ground's network by 50 percent. Announced in January 1999, the plan includes the opening or expansion of more than 50 facilities, including the new Overland facility.