Special to the WJH With shovels in hand and hard hats gleaming under the Georgia sun, local leaders and GATX Corporation representatives gathered Tuesday, August 19 to break ground on a major expansion of the company’s Waycross facility.
The ceremony, held at 2610 Industrial Blvd, marked a new chapter for one of Ware County’s most enduring industrial partners.
The event drew a crowd of community members, business leaders and elected officials, all celebrating the continued growth of a facility that has been a cornerstone of the local economy since 1957. Attendees stood shoulder to shoulder in front of construction equipment and banners, symbolizing the unity between industry and community.
“This expansion isn’t just about railcars — it’s about people, jobs and the future of Waycross,” said Wes Lujan of GATX. “We’re proud to invest in this community and continue building on the legacy we’ve established here.”
The Waycross site spans 150 acres and currently supports 270 employees. Since 2020, GATX has invested nearly $27 million in capital improvements, including upgrades to cleaning tracks, paint booths, flare systems and the addition of a new materials warehouse and interior blast equipment.
The facility now handles approximately 732 railcars and offers some of the most advanced repair capabilities in the industry.
The ceremony was hosted in partnership with the Waycross-Ware County Development Authority (WWDA) and the Waycross-Ware County Chamber of Commerce. Jason Rubenbauer of WWDA and Suzanna Woodall of the Chamber praised GATX’s role in driving economic development and fostering community engagement.
Beyond its industrial achievements, GATX Waycross is known for its civic involvement. The company sponsors school events, donates food baskets to families in need, and supports organizations like the Okefenokee Heritage Center and the YMCA. Employee-led clothing drives have also benefited the Okefenokee Alliance for the Homeless.
With a global fleet of over 152,000 railcars and operations across North America, Europe, and India, GATX continues to lead the transportation leasing industry. The Waycross expansion is a testament to its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability.
