Macon Times

Macon-Bibb County's Airport North Industrial Park has attained the "GRAD Select" certification, emphasizing its potential for substantial industrial development. The site's comprehensive accreditation underscores its strategic advantages, positioning it as an appealing prospect for future industrial growth.

"The GRAD program is one way that communities can take the lead in attracting jobs and investment that fit their strategic goals, and we’re excited that Macon-Bibb County will be adding another GRAD certified site to their portfolio. The partnerships between the state and local levels in Georgia enable us to develop speed-to-market solutions, such as the GRAD program, that helped spur a 112% growth in statewide advanced manufacturing investments in fiscal year 2023, compared to fiscal year 2021", said Commissioner Pat Wilson according to a press release by the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

The same press release noted that the 120-acre Airport North Industrial Park, located at 7200 Industrial Highway in Macon, is situated near U.S. 41 and U.S. Interstate 75, just eight miles from downtown Macon, less than two miles from the Middle Georgia Regional Airport and is equipped with on-site utilities and planned railroad access via a Norfolk Southern spur track.

According to another statement by the Georgia Department of Economic Development mentioned in the press release: "The Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) Program features 60+ certified sites ready for swift industrial projects", with GRAD Select status signifying surpassing the state's strict certification standards.

In Oct., Macon-Bibb County officials announced plans for a new terminal at Middle Georgia Regional Airport aiming to boost economic development and job creation as reported by 41 NBC News.

Finally, yet another piece of information released by the Georgia Department of Economic Development reveals that this department is responsible for business attraction, industry expansion, tourism promotion and utilizing state resources for economic development.