While the number of building permits in Henry County has remained relatively steady over the last decade, the value of new development is rising sharply — a sign of growing investor confidence and larger, more ambitious projects.
From 2015 to 2020, the county issued 5,333 permits representing just over $385 million in development activity. Since 2021, only 4,356 permits have been issued, but the total project value has jumped to more than $687 million, before adjusting for inflation. When adjusted for inflation, the post-2020 total rises to over $742 million — a nearly 49 percent increase in real investment compared to the previous five-year period.
The average value per permit has more than doubled, from roughly $72,000 between 2015 and 2020 to more than $158,000 since 2021, also before adjusting for inflation.
This shift can be attributed to several factors including enhanced site readiness, consistent tax policy, and a long-term commitment to supporting economic development.
“These numbers reflect the wisdom of the board’s forward-looking investments,” said Jim Adams, chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors. “From preparing sites for major employers to keeping taxes low and maintaining a stable business climate, we’ve focused on creating an environment that allows growth to take root. We are now seeing the results.”
County Administrator Dale Wagoner said the data points to growing investor trust in the county’s overall business climate.
“Companies are not just choosing to build here; they are choosing to build bigger than ever before,” Wagoner said. “That speaks to the value proposition we offer, from a skilled workforce to competitive infrastructure. Our ability to keep costs predictable, especially in essential services like water and sewer, remains one of our quiet strengths. It may not grab headlines, but it helps secure jobs and long-term investment.”
The county recorded its highest number of permits in 2018, with 1,044 issued. But 2022 saw the highest total project value, exceeding $223 million, driven by large-scale industrial projects and commercial expansion at the Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre.
Officials also noted growth in residential and commercial development. New housing projects, including the School Drive Apartments, are being developed to meet demand for quality living options. Meanwhile, commercial permits are increasing as retail and service businesses expand to serve both residents and the local workforce.
Demolition activity — often overlooked as an indicator of development — is also up. Between 2015 and 2020, the county issued 106 demolition permits valued at a combined $2.3 million (inflation-adjusted). Since 2021, that figure has grown to 136 permits worth over $18 million. County officials say this trend reflects efforts to clear older structures and pave the way for redevelopment.
This balanced growth across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors reflects the success of the board’s wise investments in site readiness, infrastructure, and maintaining competitive tax rates. It signals investor confidence in the county’s future, underpinned by a skilled workforce and predictable operating costs, including some of the lowest water and sewer rates in the region.
