The Georgia Department of Economic Development announced that GATX Corporation, the global leader in railcar leasing, is expanding its existing railcar maintenance facility in Ware County.  GATX currently anticipates total investment to be approximately $18 million over the next four years. New jobs are currently expected to be created in connection with this investment.
 
“GATX’s commitment to the Waycross community speaks volumes not just for the future of Waycross, but for Georgia’s manufacturing industry as a whole,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “The state has optimized its infrastructure to support all shipping methods, to make it easier for businesses across each industry sector to access the world.”
 
Headquartered in Chicago, GATX has maintained a presence in Ware County since the early 1950’s becoming one of the first businesses in their industrial park.
 
“We appreciate the support and the opportunities provided by the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Waycross Ware County Development Authority to help our business grow in Waycross,” said Michael T. Brooks, Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, GATX Rail North America.
 
Phase I of the expansion will begin with rehabbing and replacing current equipment in the facility, while Phase II includes plans to expand a contiguous tract of land on which GATX will add rail lines for ease of access and storage.
 
“The GATX expansion in Waycross is a wonderful example of effective negotiation with a leading international corporation that will bring additional investment to our community,” said Waycross-Ware Development Authority Chairman Dr. William W. Clark III. “And the best part is they will continue to pay taxes and other fees, as the expansion evolves. We are not giving away the farm to secure future investment in Waycross and South Georgia.”
 
GDEcD Assistant Director of Existing Industry and Regional Recruitment Michelle Shaw represented the Global Commerce division in partnership with the Ware Waycross Development Authority and Georgia Power.