VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) - Economic growth seems to be an increasing trend in downtown Valdosta, as they prepare to move forward in a partnership with the Georgia Beer Company.
The Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority approved to allow the beer company to proceed with establishing a new site.
Stan Crance with the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority has been working almost three years to find a home for The Georgia Beer Company. And with much luck, one spot was secured in the heart of Downtown Valdosta.
"We all came together and helped these guys out as much as we could, and we're super excited that it's finally happening," said Crance.
On Wednesday, VLCDA and the City of Valdosta approved $975,000 to cover renovations to the historic city works building and legal administrative fees.
"We're really excited, because it's going to improve the quality of life for downtown Valdosta, and add more things to do for the people that go down there and attract new folks to go down there," said Crance.
Contruction on the building is expected to start within the month. Jones Construction will have 240 days to complete the project. Georgia Beer Company will not have payments during its first year in the lease.
"We'll hopefully be in there in about six to nine months and enjoying the space," said Crance.
After the first year Georgia Beer Company's lease payments will be $4,500. After year six, payments go up to $6,725, costing a little over a million dollars to the development authority at the end of 16 years if the company decides not to buy after year six.
"The goal is to spur more economic development downtown and the development authority and us will be glad to be a part of that if the opportunity arises," said Crance.
The Georgia Beer Company will be the first brewery in Valdosta.
It will do more than just simply brew beer. Social events will be held at the facility as well as food and beer tastings. Live music will also be available on special occasions.
