-- Valdosta, Ga. -- September 9, 2012 --

The Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority has put a spot light on solar power and broadband internet. That's according to a new analysis of regional businesses and employment.They say it will be a way to generate job growth going forward. Many in the community agree.

Valdosta Resident Mark Yates said "if they could bring those all in, it would be great for the economy and bring a lot of jobs for a lot of people in town here."

The Industrial Authority also release d poverty rates during the 2000 to 2010 decade in the Valdosta Metropolitan Area. The poverty rate increased from roughly 18% in 2000, to nearly 24% in 2010. It also said that child poverty increased from roughly 24% to nearly 32%.

Many feel that new local businesses based on solar power and broadband internet could play a significant role in putting people back to work.

Valdosta resident Milton Rush said "I would like to see that come to the city here. That's what we need here, new development here. It would also employ a lot more people and give them jobs and stuff. And it can, you know, just help the economy at the same time."

The Industrial Authority is currently in the process of trying to entice solar and broadband companies to move to Valdosta.