FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Development Authority of Peach County

1. About Peach County & The Development Authority

What is the primary role of the Development Authority of Peach County (DAPC)?

The DAPC is responsible for the attraction, retention, and expansion of industry and commerce within Peach County, Georgia. We serve as a primary point of contact for businesses seeking to relocate or expand, providing assistance with site selection, incentives, workforce solutions, and connections to local and state resources to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success.

What are Peach County's key strategic advantages for businesses?

Peach County offers a compelling blend of advantages, including:

Strategic Location: Central Georgia at the crossroads of major interstates.
Robust Infrastructure: Excellent access to road, rail, and air freight, with reliable utilities.
Skilled Workforce: Access to a growing regional talent pool, supported by strong educational and training programs.
Business-Friendly Environment: Competitive incentives, reasonable cost of doing business, and a supportive local government.
Quality of Life: A welcoming community with excellent schools, amenities, and a strong sense of pride.

How does the DAPC collaborate with other regional entities?

The DAPC works closely with (some examples):

Local/Regional Agencies and Institutions

Local municipalities

Utility partners

State agencies

This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive support and a unified effort in fostering economic growth across the region, including Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties.

2. Site Selection & Infrastructure

What types of industrial sites and buildings are available in Peach County?

Peach County offers a diverse portfolio of available industrial sites, including shovel-ready properties in established industrial parks and larger undeveloped tracts suitable for significant projects. We also maintain an inventory of existing buildings for sale. Our team can provide detailed information on specific properties to match your unique operational requirements. You can explore these through our "Sites and Buildings" section and interactive maps.

What is the Middle Georgia Mega Site, and why is it significant?

The Middle Georgia Mega Site is a premier, large-scale industrial property within Peach County, offering expansive acreage, access to robust utilities, and significant transportation advantages, including direct Class I rail access. It is ideal for major manufacturing, logistics, or industrial projects requiring substantial space and infrastructure.

Describe Peach County's transportation infrastructure (Road, Rail, Air, Sea).

Road: Strategically located at the crossroads of major U.S. Highways, with excellent access to I-75 (north-south corridor) and connectivity to I-16 (east-west to the Port of Savannah).
Rail: Served by Norfolk Southern Class I rail, providing direct access for freight movement. The region also benefits from intermodal services.
Air: Proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) (a major international cargo and passenger hub) and the Middle Georgia Regional Airport (MCN), offering general aviation services and regional connectivity.
Sea: Convenient truck access to Georgia's deepwater ports: Port of Savannah (one of the busiest and fastest-growing container ports in the U.S.) and the Port of Brunswick (specializing in RoRo cargo).

What is the utility capacity and reliability in Peach County?

Peach County boasts robust and reliable utility infrastructure:

Electricity: Provided by a mix of Georgia Power Company, Flint Energies, and Fort Valley Utility Commission, ensuring ample capacity and responsive service for industrial demands.
Natural Gas: Abundant natural gas resources are available in industrial quantities, with both firm and interruptible service options.
Water: The county's water treatment plant has significant reserve capacity sourced from deep wells, ensuring a consistent and high-quality supply.
Wastewater: The sewage treatment plant has capacity for future expansion with primary and secondary treatment processes.
Telecommunications: Advanced communication networks, including high-speed internet and fiber optics, provide seamless connectivity.

3. Workforce & Training

What is the workforce availability and quality in Peach County and the surrounding region?

Peach County has a growing and adaptable labor pool, drawing from a regional population that encompasses Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties. The workforce is supported by a strong ethic and a focus on acquiring in-demand skills relevant to manufacturing, logistics, and other key industries.

What training programs and educational institutions support workforce development in the area?

The region offers excellent workforce development resources, including:

Fort Valley State University (FVSU): A comprehensive university providing a pipeline of educated talent.
Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC): Offers customized training programs, technical degrees, and certifications aligned with industry needs.
WorkSource Middle Georgia: A regional collaborative that connects job seekers with training and employment opportunities, including WIOA programs.
GA VECTR (Georgia Veteran Education Career Transition Resource Center): Provides specialized training and support for veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
ACT WorkKeys NCRC & WorkReady Community: These initiatives certify foundational workplace skills, ensuring a quality-tested workforce.

Can the DAPC assist with customized workforce training for new or expanding businesses?

Absolutely. The DAPC works closely with our educational and workforce development partners to facilitate customized training programs for qualified projects that could be tailored to your company's specific needs, helping to ensure you have a skilled and ready workforce from day one.

4. Incentives & Business Environment

What types of economic incentives are available for businesses relocating to or expanding in Peach County?

Peach County offers a range of competitive local and state incentives to qualified businesses, which may include job tax credits, investment tax credits, and various grant programs. Peach County also provides "Freeport Exemptions" for certain types of inventory. The DAPC team works directly with prospective companies to develop a tailored incentive package.

What is the process for obtaining incentives?

The DAPC team guides qualified businesses through the incentives process. This typically involves an initial consultation to assess eligibility, followed by assistance with documentation and coordination with relevant local and state agencies to secure the most advantageous package for your project. Certain restrictions apply. Please contact our office for additional information.

What is the general business climate and regulatory environment in Peach County?

Peach County is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment with a clear and efficient regulatory process. We strive to be responsive to business needs, providing streamlined permitting and proactive support to help companies establish and grow with minimal red tape.

5. Quality of Life & Community

What is the quality of life like for employees and their families in Peach County?

Peach County offers an attractive quality of life characterized by its friendly community spirit, affordability, diverse housing options, and access to excellent schools. It provides a welcoming environment for families, with numerous recreational opportunities, local events, and a strong sense of belonging.

What educational options are available for families of relocating employees?

Peach County is home to a respected public school system that provides quality K-12 education. Additionally, the region offers various private school options, and the presence of Fort Valley State University ensures access to higher education opportunities close to home.

What amenities and recreational activities are available in Peach County?

Residents can enjoy local parks, community events, and easy access to the cultural and recreational amenities of the broader Middle Georgia region, including dining, shopping, and entertainment in Peach County and nearby Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties. Our rich agricultural heritage also means access to unique local experiences like Lane Southern Orchards.

For additional information, please visit our Data Center page which has links to more indepth information on specific topics.