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Early Co. represented at InfraDay Southeast Data Center panel
Early County was represented in a statewide conversation about the future of digital infrastructure on Wednesday, September 23, as Susanne Reynolds, Director of the Development Authority of Early County, participated as a panelist at InfraDay Southeast in Atlanta.
Reynolds joined the session, “The Data Center Boom — Building the Southeast’s Digital Infrastructure,” which examined the rapid growth of data centers throughout the Southeast and the infrastructure and partnerships necessary to support major investments.
The Southeast has emerged as one of the nation’s fastest-growing data center markets as artificial intelligence, cloud computing and increasing demand for digital services drive unprecedented investment. As projects grow in scale, developers and communities must address critical considerations including power availability, land, water, fiber connectivity, permitting and infrastructure capacity.
The panel was moderated by F. J. “Josh” Fenn, Director of Public Affairs for STACK Infrastructure. Reynolds was joined by Bill Thomson, Vice President of Marketing & Product Management for DC BLOX; David Craley, Director of Data Center Delivery Solutions for QCells North America/TheEdge/ Transgrid Energy; Steve Ledbetter, County Manager for Spalding County; and Shaun Dodson, Manager of Site Development, Community & Economic Development for Georgia EMC.
Reynolds brought the perspective of a rural South Georgia community to the discussion, emphasizing how the data center development can help strengthen infrastructure to support a more diverse local economy.
“Historically, infrastructure limitations have made it difficult for our part of the state to attract significant industrial growth. A major data center investment can help strengthen our power grid and capacity while activating infrastructure that has never reached its full potential,” she explained. “Since QTS Data Centers announced its intention to locate in our community, I’ve received more industrial project inquiries than ever before. This investment can be a much-needed catalyst for us to attract new industries, diversify our economy with more job offerings and create long-term opportunities for Early County.”
Founded in 2017, InfraDay focuses on North America’s infrastructure sector and brings together leaders from government, utilities, engineering, construction, finance, technology and development. Its programming covers areas including energy, water, transportation, telecommunications, climate resilience and community development.
Participation in the Atlanta panel provided Early County an opportunity to contribute to a broader discussion while also learning from infrastructure leaders working on projects across the Southeastern United States. For the Development Authority of Early County, that exchange of information is important as it prepares Early County to strategically prepare for new investment while maintaining the rural qualities and community assets that make Southwest Georgia unique.
Published in the Early County News on September 30, 2026.
