The Crossroads: Peach County’s Economic Evolution

May 12, 2025
Development Authority of Peach County

Get ready to dive deep into the future of Peach County! 

This week kicks off our new series titled, "Peach County's Pivot: Building a Future Beyond the Orchard" starting with an insightful look at the exciting shifts happening in our local economy.  

Week 1: "The Crossroads: Peach County's Economic Evolution."

Fort Valley, GA – Peach County, long synonymous with its succulent namesake fruit, finds itself at a pivotal moment. While the sweet aroma of ripening peaches still fills the air, local leaders and residents alike recognize the need to cultivate a more diverse economic landscape.

"We love our peaches, and they'll always be a part of who we are," says BJ Walker, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Peach County. "But the market is volatile, and we need to look beyond the orchard to ensure our children and grandchildren have opportunities here."

"Our strategic location, right off Interstate 75, gives us a huge advantage," explains Mr. Walker. "We're focusing on attracting industries that can leverage that, while also building on our existing strengths."

Currently, agriculture dominates the local economy, but employment data reveals a need for broader opportunities. The current unemployment rate sits at 4.5%, slightly above the state average, and many residents commute to neighboring counties for work. The goal is to bring those jobs home.

"We need to think about the long-term," says Mr. Walker. "We want a resilient economy that can weather any storm, and that means diversification."

This series will explore the county's efforts to achieve that, from the burgeoning Robins International Industrial Park to investments in workforce development. Check back next week as we explore "The Industrial Shift: New Opportunities in the Robins International Industrial Park".