Summerville will receive a new economic development opportunity beginning January 1, 2026, as it becomes one of seven Georgia cities selected for designation as a Rural Zone. The designation, which runs through December 31, 2030, is part of a statewide initiative aimed at stimulating investment and job creation in historic downtown areas.
The Rural Zone program is a partnership between the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Economic Development. Created in 2017, the program offers a package of tax incentives to encourage business growth, property investment and building rehabilitation within designated zones.
Eligible businesses and investors in Summerville can access three key state income tax credits: a $2,000-per-year job tax credit for each new full-time job created; an investment credit equal to 25 percent of a property’s purchase price, up to $125,000; and a rehabilitation credit covering 30 percent of qualified renovation costs, capped at $150,000.
Local leaders are expected to begin sharing information about the incentives with businesses and property owners as the city prepares to take full advantage of the new designation.