Al Williams
State representative
On behalf of the Liberty County Development Authority (LCDA) Board of Directors, I am honored to share our vision for the future as we embrace the opportunities outlined in the Link Liberty strategic plan, now in its final stages of board review. This plan is not just a roadmap; it is a call to action for our residents, businesses, educators and community partners to pursue a shared vision for progress, prosperity, and inclusivity. Liberty County stands at a pivotal moment, especially given the increased opportunities in our region. Link Liberty will challenge us to think differently, embrace innovation, and work collaboratively to achieve our goals. It encourages us to look beyond traditional approaches and be open to new ideas, partnerships, and strategies that will drive quality, sustainable development and improve the standard of living for everyone.
Development and growth are coming. Our task is to decide how we want it to happen here. Who do we want to be going forward?
We hope to foster a community that thrives economically while preserving the county’s unique heritage, culture, and environment. This plan will present strategies to attract and support businesses, enhance workforce development, and improve our quality of life. It recognizes Foreign Direct Investment as an area of past success and continued focus. It identifies key Advanced Manufacturing sectors, including Electric Vehicle/ Automotive suppliers, Aerospace & Aviation, and Department of Defense suppliers, as well as higher-paying logistics operations like Cold Storage & E-Commerce, that align with our county’s strengths and position us for long term success.
Imagine Liberty County in 10 years.
The Midway Exit at I-95, our front door, is well-lit, beautifully landscaped, and welcoming, with thriving businesses that pull travelers off the interstate to spend their money on gas, food, and local historical attractions within minutes of the interchange. From every dollar they spend, pennies are captured, generating millions for necessary infrastructure improvement and maintenance. The same is taking shape on Exit 67 at Coastal Highway 17, with thoughtful development creating significant regional economic impact.
Cutting-edge industries have continued to locate in the established business parks nearby. We celebrate the abundant job opportunities that pay well enough for locals to provide for themselves and their families here.
With gratitude for the rare landowners who are economically able to hold hundreds or, in some cases, thousands of acres undeveloped, Liberty County still enjoys abundant natural environments all around us.
Visitors flock to Midway’s now upscale but still down-home business district, drawn by its historic charm, nearby attractions, and unique shopping and dining options. Riceboro, Flemington, and Hinesville are attracting new residents to planned neighborhood communities with amenities that provide what families need for safety, entertainment, and quality of life while preserving the natural character and environment. Older, more established neighborhoods have been upgraded and are well-maintained. Gum Branch, still rural and close-knit, Allenhurst, and Walthourville all prosper while maintaining their individual histories and character. Quality workforce and executive housing options are abundant.
The county offers residents and guests topnotch amenities, retail, parks, and entertainment options. Memorial Drive, Main Street, Court Street, and MLK Jr. Drive are bustling. Our historic landmarks are celebrated, and our natural beauty and ancient oaks are preserved for future generations. Property taxes have been reduced, the poverty rate is lower, and the standard of living is up. Local government can provide the infrastructure and services businesses and residents require.
Together, we solved our water and sewer infrastructure challenges and improved fire safety and emergency services to meet our needs.
Our hospital is growing, healthcare options are increasing, and so are the good jobs required by that success. New assisted-living facilities have opened so our older residents have safe, clean, and stable places to live in their hometown, close to friends and family.
The progress we are making in our schools is evident. Our third-grade reading proficiency rate increased from 33% to 50%, and we are still pushing for greater. Instead of losing households to neighboring counties, we are a place where the people who work here want to stay and raise their families for generations.
Liberty County is a location of first choice for active-duty soldiers and their families, and there are many opportunities for second careers after military service.
We live in a beautiful place where innovation meets tradition and opportunities abound. Everyone contributes to this prosperous vision.
Our greatest days are ahead, and I am confident that by linking our talents, resources, and ambitions, we will build a stronger, more prosperous Liberty County for all.
Al Williams (D-Midway) is the state representative for House District 168 and the chairman of the Liberty County Development Authority.