Ben Hill County and City of Fitzgerald

Overview

One of the greatest strengths of the Ben Hill County and City of Fitzgerald Community Network is a well-established and diverse industrial and manufacturing base. Over the past five years, the community has seen significant growth from existing industries bringing new jobs and new construction. We are also making significant investments in infrastructure that will further strengthen our ability to retain jobs in rural Georgia. Clusters in wood products and value-added agriculture should provide a strong foundation for employment here.

Natural assets such as planted and natural timber sources, fish, wildlife, natural ponds, high-quality soils, and agricultural products are key in fueling the local economy. Our key natural resources are our clean air, land, our access to solar energy, and access clean water through some of the world’s largest aquifers. Our rivers, such as the Ocmulgee, are very important in providing recreational and eco-tourism activities while also increasing the local quality of life.

Our local leaders collaborate to overcome challenges and limited resources and are another important asset for the community network. Working with the Rural Partners Network, we will continue to build on our assets and strengths to improve the economy and quality of life in Ben Hill County.

Priorities

  • Affordable Housing

    • Single-family housing for low- and median-income households
    • Multi-family housing
    • Special needs housing
    • Low- and very-low-income housing assistance
    • Repairs for elderly and disabled homeowners
    • Energy efficient improvements
  • Infrastructure

    • Water and wastewater system improvements
    • Road improvements
    • Airport runway improvements / expansion
    • Commercial park development
    • Industrial park development
    • Hospital expansion and improvements
    • Demolition and revitalization of derelict buildings
  • Economic Diversification

    • Agricultural economy development
    • Recreation economy development
    • Manufacturing investment
    • Retail growth
    • Tourism opportunities
    • Entrepreneurship supports
  • Rural Healthcare

    • Telemedicine access
    • Mental health services
    • Maternal health services
    • Dental care
    • Early child development and care provider services
    • Specialty care in rural communities
    • Assisted living and long-term care
  • Workforce Development

    • Support for local businesses and industries
    • Training programs for healthcare services
    • Vocational and technical training
    • Development opportunities for existing workforce
    • Agricultural development programs
    • STEM development for schools

Rural Partners Network Contacts for Ben Hill County and City of Fitzgerald

Host Entity

Fitzgerald and Ben Hill County Development Authority
Jason Dunn