The Georgia State Legislature's Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications meeting on March 6, 2025, focused on the revitalization of tourism infrastructure in Camden County, particularly around Exit 3. The discussions highlighted the potential for transforming transient tourism into destination tourism, emphasizing the need for improved accommodations and attractions.

The meeting began with a presentation on the current state of tourism in Camden County, which is primarily driven by Cumberland Island National Seashore, attracting a limited number of visitors. The speaker noted that while Exit 3 has 1,400 hotel rooms, it captures very few overnight visitors, indicating a need for better infrastructure to support tourism growth.

Concerns were raised about the aging hotels and facilities at Exit 3, which were developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Comparisons were made to other interchanges, such as Exit 36 in Brunswick, which has undergone significant revitalization efforts. The goal is to enhance the appeal of Exit 3 to attract more visitors and increase local revenue through tourism.

The conversation shifted to the importance of developing new hotels and modern facilities to accommodate visitors, ensuring that tourism dollars remain within Georgia rather than being spent in nearby areas like Amelia Island. The speaker referenced the success of Lake Point in Bartow County, which has seen a surge in tourism and revenue due to the development of new hotels and sports facilities.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the potential for mixed-use developments that include entertainment centers and additional accommodations, aiming to create a more vibrant tourism economy in Camden County. The legislators expressed optimism about the future of tourism in the area, emphasizing the need for strategic investments to capitalize on the region's natural attractions and improve visitor experiences.