WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Growth is blasting off in Central Georgia, as Warner Robins prepares to welcome a new aerospace factory.
It is coming to the Peach County portion of the city, in their Joint Development Agreement International Industrial Park.
Sounds of construction became background noise in Warner Robins Monday, as crews got to work on the Kihomac Factory.
"This area has grown significantly fast," Joshua Rogers said.
Rogers is the project superintendent with Parrish Construction Group. He says they started working Thursday, but didn't move any dirt until over the weekend.
Monday, they had about 10 guys on equipment, but in a few weeks he expects to see 75 to 100 people out there daily.
He is witness to the growth in the Industrial Complex.
"We actually did Flint Energies. Started it up just right across the street over there. We're just excited to see these big changes and we're glad that we're able to contribute and give to the community over here," Rogers said.
Mayor LaRhonda Patrick says it's one of many new projects you can expect in the park coming up.
"Here we grow again. It's been a theme that's been unsaid this year," Patrick said.
Patrick says the project will supply over 70 new jobs, bringing encouragement in a time of struggle.
"Finding a place to live inside your affordability is hard," Patrick said.
She says aside from a symbol of growth, these yellow vehicles are a sign of hope.
"The more new jobs you have like that, it only means there's more new jobs coming into our community," Patrick said. "Whether it be at the local grocery store or the local coffee shop, there's going to be more that comes from investments like this inside the community."
Covering 130,000 square feet, the company will create metals and electrical components that will support Central Georgia's largest employer.
"Anything that supports Robins Air Force Base, the city of Warner Robins is going to rally behind them," Patrick said.
While Kihomac is new to many, the veteran-owned business isn't new to Central Georgia.
"They're good people, they take care of their employees. They're going to be a good employer," BJ Walker said.
Walker is the executive director of the Peach County Development Authority. He says the company has been in Byron for years.
"It's one thing just to bring in somebody and say 'create some jobs', but we want to make sure those jobs are here in 25 years too," Walker said.
He says this is smart growth that's setting them up to meet long-term goals. Both he and Patrick say its an honor Kihomac chose to continue to grow in this area.
"It's just another piece of that puzzle that will continue to grow our community," Walker said.
The project is expected to be complete by the end of 2025.
The location is off of Highway 41 across from the new Warner Robins city water tower.
A groundbreaking ceremony is happening on the site at 1978 Lightning Way, Byron, Georgia Thursday at 1:00 p.m.