Albany Economic Developers say more businesses and industries are hiring or making plans to expand.
Monday, the Albany Dougherty Payroll Development Authority sold more than 9 acres to a developer who plans to build a larger Fed Ex Ground distribution center.
Leaders say it means more jobs and additional tax base when it's needed most.
Fed Ex Ground's expansion will nearly triple the size of their distribution, and officials say it could add a dozen to two dozen jobs.
The new Fed Ex Ground distribution center will be right next door to their current facility in the 1500 block of Dougherty Avenue off the Liberty Bypass in Dougherty County.
Economic officials say demand is driving their growth.
"Their representatives have told us that this is one of their busiest areas in terms of volume. So it's a good sign for the local economy that a company like Fed Ex wants to grow here," said Albany Dougherty Economic Development Commission President, Ted Clem.
Developer Setzer Properties bought the 9.2 acres of land from the Payroll Development Authority for $131, 550 and will build the more than 61,000 square foot transportation center for Fed Ex Ground.
County Commission Chairman Jeff Sinyard said that's more good news for Dougherty County as they struggle with the tax base.
"In the last three weeks we are seeing two companies that have made commitments to Albany Georgia and together they are going to be spending four to five million dollars to invest here. They will be fully on the tax roles. To be hiring our folks, and we're very, very excited. We think there is going to be more opportunities," said County Commission Chairman, Jeff Sinyard.
Officials say the expansion will mean more jobs, but are not sure how many. Possibly 12 to 25.
Albany Mayor Dorothy Hubbard said this is how the community must economically grow.
"We have to do a little at a time. Step by step. This business and that business," said Albany Mayor, Dorothy Hubbard.
Officials say they hope this signals companies are ready to move forward.
"There is also still a lot of uncertainty about the future direction of our economy and the country. But because of this pent up demand we do see some companies stepping out and going ahead and make a big investment with new construction," said Clem.
Albany and Dougherty County officials saying every positive economic sign is good news for the community after tough years.
Payroll Development Authority officials say they are not sure when the new Fed Ex Ground complex will be completed, but said the developers were anxious to complete the sale as soon as possible.
You heard Jeff Sinyard mention another company that recently announced plans to expand here.
He's talking about Outdoor Network which is moving a center from Florida to Albany that will supply parts and accessories for marine and power sports vehicles.
They're investing about $3,000,000 dollars in a new facility that should create about 100 jobs.
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