The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce concluded its 2026 D.C. Fly-In this week following a productive series of meetings and discussions focused on advancing priorities important to Albany and Southwest Georgia. The annual trip brought together local elected officials, business leaders, educators, and community partners to advocate for continued investment in the region’s economy, workforce, infrastructure, military partnerships, and community development initiatives.

The delegation began the week in Washington, D.C. with briefings and legislative updates from federal policy leaders at the U.S Chamber of Commerce, followed by discussions centered on Albany’s continued growth and long-term vision for the region. Leadership and community stakeholders highlighted ongoing projects and strategic priorities aimed at strengthening economic opportunity and regional collaboration.

One of the key events of the trip was the Albany Federal Reception, which brought together Albany leadership, congressional representatives, military officials, and strategic partners for conversations focused on the future of Southwest Georgia. The reception provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships and discuss the critical needs impacting the Albany area and surrounding communities.

Throughout the visit, the delegation met with members of Georgia’s congressional delegation, including Congressman Sanford Bishop, Congressman Austin Scott, and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff and Senator Raphael Warnock. Discussions focused on issues surrounding support for Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, while also including discussions on workforce development, healthcare, military support, agriculture, economic growth, and federal partnerships that directly impact Albany and Southwest Georgia.

One of the major highlights of the trip was the delegation’s visit to the Historic Marine Barracks, where attendees experienced The U.S. Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon and "The Commandant's Own" Drum & Bugle Corps. The delegation also participated in meetings focused on military and defense partnerships, reinforcing Albany’s role as a strong military community and highlighting the continued importance of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany to the region’s economy and national defense efforts.

2026 Albany Area Chamber Board Chair Adam Hutchins also reflected on the value of the trip, stating, “This year’s Fly-In once again demonstrated the power of collaboration and unified advocacy. Bringing together leaders from across our community allows us to speak with one voice on the issues that matter most to Albany and Southwest Georgia. The relationships strengthened during this trip will continue to create opportunities for growth and progress back home.”

Bridges Sinyard, Chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee, added, “This trip continues to be an invaluable opportunity to directly engage with our federal partners. The conversations we had in Washington help ensure Albany’s priorities are clearly understood and strongly represented as we work toward continued progress for our region.”

Matt Reed, Interim President & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with elected officials and federal partners. “The D.C. Fly-In continues to be one of the most important opportunities we have to advocate directly for Albany and Southwest Georgia,” said Reed. “These conversations help ensure our region’s priorities remain at the forefront while strengthening relationships and partnerships that move our community forward.”