JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA – The River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA), a key driver of economic growth in Southern Indiana, announced on Monday that it generated over $3.04 billion in economic impact and supported 19,471 regional jobs in 2024.
Established in 1998 with the goal of revitalizing the local economy following the closure of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant, River Ridge has now grown into a central industrial park home to more than 80 companies.
"Our commitment to the development of River Ridge ultimately aims to deliver tangible growth and benefits to the residents of Southern Indiana," emphasized Treva Hodges, Charlestown Mayor and RRDA Board Chairman. "Through infrastructure investment, job creation, and business attraction, we are shaping the future of our community."
Notably, the most significant achievement in 2024 was Meta's acquisition of a large 600-plus-acre site within River Ridge in the Jeffersonville area. Meta plans to invest an initial $800 million to establish a data center on this site, which is expected to create approximately 1,250 jobs during the construction phase and about 100 permanent positions with an average hourly wage of $36 during operation.
Furthermore, the River Ridge Development Authority continued its efforts in expanding infrastructure last year, investing $6.7 million in new road construction and $8.9 million in utility improvements. "These infrastructure improvements lay the groundwork for future investment," stated Jerry Acy, RRDA Executive Director. "By prioritizing long-term development, we will strive to ensure that River Ridge continues to attract world-class companies and quality jobs."
Meanwhile, Jerry Acy, who has led River Ridge since 2008, announced his retirement plans earlier this year. During his tenure, River Ridge has achieved significant growth and is recognized as a crucial pillar of the Southern Indiana economy.
River Ridge Development Authority: A public agency established to promote economic development and growth in the Southern Indiana region. It contributes to the revitalization of the local economy through business attraction, infrastructure development, and community collaboration.
Economic Impact: The total direct and indirect effects of a specific event, investment, or activity on the overall economic system. This manifests in various forms such as job creation, income growth, and increased production.
Data Center: A facility designed to store, process, and manage large amounts of digital data. Equipped with servers, network equipment, cooling systems, and security systems, it plays a central role in the information technology infrastructure of modern society. Investments in data centers by global IT companies like Meta can significantly boost the local economy.
The ongoing efforts of the River Ridge Development Authority and Meta's large-scale investment are having a positive impact on the Southern Indiana regional economy and are expected to continue to be important drivers of the community's development and growth in the future.
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