In a vibrant meeting room filled with local leaders and community advocates, the Georgia State Legislature's Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications committee gathered on March 6, 2025, to discuss a transformative project aimed at boosting tourism and economic growth in Camden County. Bill Gross, representing WH Gross Construction, took center stage to unveil plans for the Georgia Florida Sports Park, strategically located between Exit 1 and Exit 3 on Interstate 95.

Gross emphasized the project's dual purpose: to attract visitors who typically pass through on their way to Florida and to enhance the local economy. "We want to draw people to Camden County instead of letting them go to Florida for tournaments," he stated, highlighting the potential for increased hotel stays, retail sales, and job creation. The initiative aims to capture the retail dollars currently lost to neighboring Florida, where many residents travel for shopping and services.

The proposed sports park is not just a local endeavor; it represents a public-private partnership designed to elevate Camden County's profile as a destination for sports tourism. Gross pointed out that sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the industry, making it a reliable avenue for economic development. He noted that families involved in travel sports often spend significantly during their trips, which could greatly benefit local businesses.

To support this ambitious project, a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) vote is scheduled for March 18, which will fund essential infrastructure improvements, including water, sewer, and road access to the park. The City of Kingsland has already established a tax allocation district to facilitate the development.

As the meeting progressed, Gross shared insights from a retail leakage study conducted by Georgia Power, illustrating the financial impact of lost revenue to Florida. He expressed a strong desire to reverse this trend, stating, "It's unacceptable for us to lose that revenue." With over 70% of Camden County's tax base currently reliant on residential taxes, Gross underscored the urgent need to diversify and grow the commercial tax base to ensure a stable economy.

The Georgia Florida Sports Park project stands as a beacon of hope for Camden County, promising not only to enhance the local economy but also to enrich the community's quality of life. As the vote approaches, the anticipation builds for what could be a pivotal moment in the region's development.