IMPERIAL — A Dallas developer will build two large industrial buildings near Pittsburgh International Airport in hopes of making the region a distribution center.

Tramwell Crow's work on the PIT International LogisticsCentre is part of the airport's North Field site, which includes Dick's Sporting Goods new headquarters.

The buildings will be in a foreign trade zone, in which companies may get imported duties reduced or eliminated. Officials say the 160-acre project will represent about $90 million in private investment. Construction will start in the fall.

Airport Authority Executive Director Brad Penrod says while air cargo business has declined because of the economy, Pittsburgh is well-positioned to become a distribution point for the Midwest and Northeast.