Boosting Industrial Development in Southeast Georgia
ATLANTA, Ga. – October 6, 2025 – The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority (Wayne County IDA) have announced that the 312-acre Wayne Commerce Center in Jesup has achieved “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development” (GRAD) Select certification — a top-tier designation that signals the site’s readiness for rapid industrial and manufacturing investment.
Located at 2520 Waycross Highway, the Wayne Commerce Center offers direct access to major interstates I-16, I-75, and I-95, and is positioned less than two hours from the Port of Savannah and just an hour from the Port of Brunswick, making it a prime location for logistics, distribution, and advanced manufacturing operations.
“The Wayne Commerce Center’s strategic location and speed-to-market advantages make it an ideal choice for companies ready to move quickly and access key markets,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “This certification positions Wayne County for success in today’s competitive environment.”
The GRAD Select designation enhances Georgia’s inventory of more than 70 certified industrial sites ready for immediate development, reducing time and risk for businesses seeking to establish or expand operations in the state.
Local leaders celebrated the milestone as a catalyst for new jobs and long-term investment.
“Preparation delivers opportunity,” said State Representative Steven Meeks (District 178). “By getting this site ready for industry, we’re setting the stage for more local employment and sustainable growth.”
Jesup Mayor Ralph Hickox added, “This certification sends a clear message that Wayne County is open for business and ready to welcome employers who want to grow with our community.”
To earn GRAD Select status, sites must undergo extensive due diligence, meet rigorous state standards, and receive third-party review and approval by an independent advisory board.
The GRAD Program offers more than 70 industrial certified sites that are ready for fast-track industrial projects, thanks to comprehensive due diligence. Economic development groups and landowners interested in obtaining GRAD certification for their property are encouraged to visit georgia.org/grad-certified-sites/application for additional information. Georgia is also investing over $18 million to help rural communities prepare new industrial sites through the Rural Site Development Initiative. These grants support site improvements and the addition of new GRAD-certified sites.
The Wayne Commerce Center joins a growing list of certified industrial parks across Georgia benefitting from the state’s Rural Site Development Initiative, which is investing more than $18 million to help rural communities prepare industrial sites and attract future investment.
For more information about certified industrial sites in Georgia, visit georgia.org/site-selector or learn more about Wayne County opportunities at connectinwayne.com.
About the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD)
The Georgia Department of Economic Development is the state’s lead agency for business recruitment, expansion, and innovation. GDEcD drives job creation, supports small businesses, promotes international trade, and markets Georgia as a premier destination for tourism, film, and digital entertainment. Learn more at georgia.org.
