James March-April 2024 online - Flipbook - Page 39
estled in the heart of Southwest Georgia,
Albany-Dougherty County (with its population of about 85,000) touts itself as a prime
example of Southern charm, community
spirit and economic resilience. This picturesque city and county, with quite a history and a promising future, offers a unique blend of culture, natural beauty
and thriving businesses and industries.
Whether you’re exploring the area’s rich heritage or
enjoying the natural beauty of the region, there’s always
something fun and exciting to do. It is a place where the
past is honored, the present is vibrant and the future is
promising. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this
charming portion of Georgia has something special to
offer to everyone who crosses its welcoming borders.
Many residents say Albany-Dougherty County’s
strength lies in its tight-knit community. The residents are
known for their warm hospitality and commitment to helping one another. Bárbara Rivera Holmes, president and
CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, believes it
is this sense of togetherness that has helped translate into
economic success.
and Albany Technical College, as well as the Albany Mall.
Albany and the surrounding region are also known for
their agricultural activities, including farming, forestry, and
food processing. These industries are significant contributors to the local economy.
“These anchors, along with various small and medium-sized businesses, collectively contribute to the economic landscape of Albany,” said Holmes. “Albany continues to enjoy a steady flow of economic growth and job
creation. At the same time, there continues to be room for
growth in the economy and residential area. The future of
Albany continues to look positive as a result of the investment the community has made.”
A Strong, Diversified Economy
Despite economic challenges faced by many communities, Albany-Dougherty County is displaying remarkable
resilience. The region has diversified its economy with key
industries including healthcare, education, logistics, and
manufacturing. Phoebe Putney Health System, Albany
State University, and the Marine Corps Logistics Base
Albany are major employers contributing to the county’s
economic stability.
“We have enjoyed a strong diversified economy since
our founding in the 1800s,” Holmes tells this writer. “Our
diverse economy reflects a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, education, and agriculture, among other sectors
which have allowed us to develop a thriving community
and strong community ties.”
Albany has several major business, commercial and industrial anchors that contribute to its economy and development. Some prominent ones include: Procter & Gamble,
MillerCoors Albany Brewery, the Marine Corps Logistics;
Phoebe Putney Health System, Albany State University
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