Statement of Governor Sonny Perdue Regarding Georgia's Economy

            ATLANTA, GA – Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding the positive economic news released by the Georgia Department of Labor:

            “Georgia’s economy is strengthening and more of our fellow citizens are finding quality jobs.  Companies around the world recognize that Georgia is a great place to grow and expand their business.  This state is blessed with a strong business climate, a quality work force, an extensive transportation network, and excellent universities and technical colleges.  To continue strengthening this economy, we will aggressively pursue new business opportunities and investment to create jobs for the people Georgia.”

            According to the Georgia Department of Labor, first-time unemployment claims dropped for the third consecutive month in October, and showed a 19 percent decline from the same period one year ago.

            Three new economic development projects have been announced this week.  Honda is building a $100 million plant in Tallapoosa, Georgia to produce automatic transmissions that will create approximately 400 jobs.  FedEx Ground has selected a 75-acre site in Kennesaw, Georgia as the location for a new 247,000-square-foot automated distribution facility to be opened by summer 2006 that will have a workforce of approximately 475 employees and independent contractors.  InterContinental Hotels Group opened its new $115 million dollar flagship hotel in the Buckhead area of Atlanta that will employ 300.