The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) hosted its Spring Industry Partners Luncheon at the Robert F. Hatcher, Sr. Conference Center on the Middle Georgia State University campus (MGA). The event brought together leaders from government, industry, and the community to learn more about infrastructure and transportation projects affecting industry growth in the Macon-Bibb County area.

State Transportation Board Member Tim Golden was a featured panel guest providing updates on Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). Local leaders on the panel included Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller, MBCIA Chairman Robby Fountain, and Macon Water Authority (MWA) Chairman Gary Bechtel. Patrick Harris, regional executive for Georgia Power, rounded out the panel with an industry perspective while MBCIA Executive Director Stephen Adams served as the moderator for the panel discussions.

“From an infrastructure perspective, the Georgia Department of Transportation is a critical partner in making sure Georgia remains the number one state in the nation for business," remarked Tim Golden. "With Macon-Bibb's location in the heart of our state, it is indeed central to Georgia's increased commercial transportation needs that support industry expansion.”

Following the insights shared by Tim Golden, the collaborative exchange continued with updates, best practices, and identified potential solutions relevant to the panelists’ respective organizations and areas of influence.

“Many of the industries developing in Macon-Bibb County are attracted by our proximity to major roadways like I-75 and I-16,” stated Mayor Lester Miller. “We recognize that road projects affect businesses and residents alike, and it is valuable that we can connect leaders with our industries to provide pertinent updates on challenges influencing local industry.”

The guest speakers representing utility agencies offered in-depth perspectives on aspects influencing infrastructure within the Macon-Bibb area, further enriching the discourse. Among the noteworthy discussions was the recognition of Macon-Bibb's robust water system as a significant infrastructure advantage.

“The Macon Water Authority underpins our water infrastructure affecting every citizen in the county,” emphasized Chairman Gary Bechtel. "The MWA effectively maintains nearly 40 million gallons of treated drinking water and four months' worth of raw water reserves in the Javors Lucas Lake, which can hold around 5.8 billion gallons at full capacity. Our focus on infrastructure reliability assesses current needs and adopts preventative steps to ensure the community's long-term well-being.”

Chairman Robby Fountain emphasized the significance of infrastructure, stating, "Infrastructure touches every aspect of our lives and serves as the framework of an area. Ongoing improvements and solutions are essential. We understand that maintaining the quality of our roads, water, and utilities is crucial to supporting growth and remaining attractive to prospective and existing industry investments."

Held bi-annually, the MBCIA's Industry Partners Luncheon serves as a platform for influential figures from both industry and governing organizations to come together to discuss local industry challenges and engage in solution-driven dialogue, demonstrating a shared commitment to driving positive change in Macon-Bibb County.