Sumter Development Authority Announces New Sustainable Industrial Park!

Sumter County, Georgia – January 15, 2025 – A fantastic opportunity emerged for the Authority to develop a new industrial park adjacent to its existing one, Ted Baldwin Industrial Park. “Our goal,” Executive Director Rusty Warner said, “Is to make this new Park unique by introducing sustainable features—meaning features to minimize environmental impact, which will attract local and global companies. Many facets could include on-site daycare, charging stations, solar panels, rainwater capture, and LEED and GRAD certifications, among many others.”

The Authority purchased 136 acres on Southerfield Road in October 2024. “We are currently taking our initial steps,” said Warner. “This includes completing plans with our engineer. We will draw on our past successes and lessons learned to help us continue to expand our manufacturing and industrial community. My board is fully committed to this project and brings exemplary leadership skills to help achieve the goal.”

This month, the acreage was rezoned to Light Industrial, approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Board of Commissioners.

A new address has also been created to begin the project: 1048 Southerfield Road. Additionally, there are plans to incorporate recreational spaces within the park, such as walking trails and green areas, to enhance the quality of life for employees and visitors. “By focusing on
sustainability, we hope to set a new standard for South Georgia industrial parks,” Warner added. Paul Hall, chairman of the Sumter Development Authority, stated, “The new Park will be one of collaboration and innovation. It will encourage companies to share a vision to develop sustainable technologies, collaborative spaces, and community engagement through green solutions and resource efficiency. We are proud to provide a platform for this.”

About the Americus Sumter Payroll Development Authority
The Americus Sumter Payroll Development Authority has a highly engaged board responsible for cultivating new businesses while balancing workforce, buildings, and building options. The Authority consistently promotes our county and always looks for outside-the-box, innovative ways to attract businesses to our community.

Sumter Development Authority Announces New  Industrial Park. Press Release