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to numerous agencies for site improvement or efforts to help obtain the Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) site designation. This funding is then matched through state and local funds to complete projects.
With this newest round of grants, the total amount of funding invested in rural site development since the Initiative’s launch is now up to $21 million.
“In Georgia, we are committed to bringing good-paying jobs to every part of the state,” remarked Governor Brian Kemp. “The Rural Site Development Initiative is a great tool in helping us bring opportunity to every zip code, and I am grateful for the partnership of the General Assembly and the leadership of the state agencies involved, without whom this generational impact for rural communities would not be possible.'
The Toombs County Development Authority received $2 million to help complete site improvements to the 599-acre One Toombs Industrial Park in Lyons. The park has been quickly developing over recent years, even earning the GRAD site designation. This new site improvement project will cost a total of $2.7 million.
Several state officials commented on their excitement for the grant announcements.
'I want to thank Governor Kemp and all the state agencies who have ensured that the Rural Site Development Initiative continues to grow and support our rural communities,' said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. 'Workforce development and economic growth are essential for all parts of Georgia, especially our rural communities, where new opportunities are emerging daily. I look forward to working with the administration to continue to build on this initiative and its success.'
'Georgians across the state deserve access to good-paying jobs and opportunities, regardless of their ZIP code,' commented Speaker Jon Burns. 'OneGeorgia’s Rural Site Development grants represent our state’s commitment to uplifting rural communities and investing where it makes the largest impact, strengthening our economic competitiveness and creating pathways to prosperity in every corner of Georgia.'
“Helping to keep Georgia’s communities ready for investment is essential for their long-term success,” added Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Christopher Nunn. “DCA is working alongside these communities to ensure their vision of the future.”
“Development ready sites are a must-have to be competitive in today’s landscape, especially in key industries such as logistics and manufacturing,” stated Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Partnering with communities through the GRAD certification and RSDI programs allows us to market every corner of the state as we compete for opportunities for Georgians.”
For more information on the Rural Site Development Initiative and the OneGeorgia Authority that scores and votes on eligible grant awards, visit the program's page on the Department of Community Affairs website.
