Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced the third round of grants from the Rural Site Development Initiative (RSDI) under the OneGeorgia Authority, allocating $4.3 million to rural site development projects. This brings the total investment in such projects since the program’s start in fiscal year 2025 to $21 million.
“In Georgia, we are committed to bringing good-paying jobs to every part of the state,” said 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 RSDI grants support either site improvements or costs related to seeking Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) certification on approved projects that are considered important for economic development in their regions. State funding is matched by local communities at different levels according to program guidelines.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones stated, “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. 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.”
Speaker Jon Burns added, “Georgians across the state deserve access to good-paying jobs and opportunities, regardless of their ZIP code. 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.”
Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Christopher Nunn commented, “Helping to keep Georgia’s communities ready for investment is essential for their long-term success. DCA is working alongside these communities to ensure their vision of the future.”
Pat Wilson, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, said: “Development ready sites are a must-have to be competitive in today’s landscape, especially in key industries such as logistics and manufacturing. 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.”
Among this round’s recipients:
– The Camden County Joint Development Authority received $2 million toward site readiness improvements at Coastal Georgia Commerce Park.
– The Toombs County Development Authority was awarded $2 million for improvements at One Toombs Industrial Park.
– Brantley County Development Authority received $45,000 toward certifying Satilla Industrial Park.
– Candler County Industrial Authority was granted $103,500 for renewal and expansion efforts at Metter-Candler I-16 Industrial Park.
– Rome-Floyd Development Authority received $20,625 toward certifying Enterprise Corner Industrial Park.
– Waycross-Ware County Development Authority was awarded $161,500 toward certifying Waycross and Ware County Airport Industrial Park.
Eligible uses for grant funds include site studies, land grading, and infrastructure work that supports industrial site development. Grantees must show substantial plans while meeting eligibility requirements set by OneGeorgia Authority.
The Office of the Governor leads executive functions within Georgia’s government from Atlanta official website. It oversees official events at locations like the Governor’s Mansion—an 18-acre property built in 1967—and promotes international economic development through offices such as one established in Japan in 1973 official website.
The Georgia Department of Economic Development acts as a central agency attracting business investment and promoting tourism as well as arts and entertainment throughout Georgia. The Department of Community Affairs works with local governments on community development initiatives including affordable housing.
For more information about RSDI or OneGeorgia Authority grant awards visit dca.ga.gov.
