LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A southern Indiana development center surpassed $3 billion in economic impact in 2024, officials announced Monday.
The River Ridge Development Authority released its economic analysis for last year. The organization started in 1998 to replace lost economic activity after the closure of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant. River Ridge is home to more than 80 companies.Â
According to a news release Monday, the commerce center generated more than $3.04 billion in economic impact and supported 19,471 regional jobs.Â
"Our commitment to developing River Ridge is ultimately about driving meaningful growth and benefiting Southern Indiana residents," Treva Hodges, mayor of Charlestown and president of the RRDA board of directors, said in a news release. "The investments we make in infrastructure, job creation, and business recruitment are shaping the future of our communities."
River Ridge Development Authority said one of the most significant developments in 2024 was Meta's acquisition of a portion of River Ridge's mega site in the Jeffersonville part of the commerce center. It spans over 600 acres. Meta announced an initial investment of $800 million to establish a data center, according to a news release. The facility is expected to create around 100 permanent operational jobs at an average wage of $36 an hour, along with generating around 1,250 construction jobs during its development.Â
Last year, River Ridge Development Authority invested $6.7 million in new roads and another $8.9 million in improved utilities.Â
"These infrastructure improvements are a foundation for future investment," Jerry Acy, executive director of River Ridge, said in a news release. "By prioritizing long-term development, we are ensuring that River Ridge continues to attract world-class companies and high-quality jobs."
Acy announced his plans to retired as the executive director earlier this year. He has been at River Ridge since 2008.Â
Related Stories:
- Executive director of River Ridge Development Authority retiring after 17 years
- River Ridge in southern Indiana announces $2.9 billion in economic output benefits last year
- Mattress facility with more than 100 employees to close in southern Indiana
- Construction underway at Facebook Meta's 600-acre site in southern Indiana's River Ridge
Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
