Business Diversity in Fort Payne
It is hard to imagine a town the size of Fort Payne - population 14,000 - with more industrial diversity (more).
Demographic Overview
According to the census of 2000, there are 12,938 people, 5,046 households, and 3,506 families residing in the city.
The population density 231.5 people per mile. There are 5,585 housing units at an average density of 100 persons per mile.
There are 5,046 households out of which 31.2% have children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.9% are married couples living together, 11.6% have a female householder with no husband present, and 30.5% are non-families. 26.9% of all households are made up of individuals and 12.1% have someone living alone who is 65 years of age or older.
The average household size is 2.49 and the average family size is 2.97. In the city the population is spread out with 23.4% under the age of 18, 10.2% from 18 to 24, 29.3% from 25 to 44, 21.6% from 45 to 64, and 15.6% who are 65 years of age or older. The median age is 36 years. For every 100 females there are 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 88.5 males.
The median income for a household in the city is $33,560, and the median income for a family is $40,200. Males have a median income of $29,731 versus $20,135 for females. The per capita income for the city is $19,690. 12.3% of the population and 8.3% of families are below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 15.0% of those under the age of 18 and 17.6% of those 65 and older are living below the poverty line.
Indepth: Fort Payne Demographics
DeKalb Co Economic Development Authority - provides preliminary information and a summary of incentives and advantages that a DeKalb County, Alabama site would offer to companies looking to locate in the area. (more)
DeKalb County Tourist Association Gives visitors a great deal of useful information related to this area.
Fort Payne on the Move
New Highway Development
Fort Payne is currenty undergoing major road development and improvement as a result of the recent National Highway System Bill. $3 million will be spent for a new I-59 interchange with 49th Street in Fort Payne. Within the next several years, Fort Payne will be even more convenient than ever. With two, and soon three, major Interstate interchanges, Fort Payne is an "easy access" town for businesses thinking of locating here.
Interstate and Railway
Infrastructure is one of many marketing draws that Fort Payne offers. With the railway passing right through the valley, close proximity to the Interstate, and a 5001 foot airport runway, Fort Payne is a choice location for business and industry. Located in DeKalb County, Fort Payne is a great place for industry to thrive and grow. The DeKalb County Economic Development Authority will assist businesses looking to possibly locate their manufacturing or service facilities in the local area. Fort Payne is on the move. Come grow with us!
Airport - Isbell Field
Isbell Field, located approximately 2 miles north of the center of Fort Payne, has a 5001 x 100 foot runway constructed of good-condition asphalt which is capable of single wheeled weight bearing capacity of 16,000 pounds at an 877 foot elevation.
Internet Access
Broadband internet access in the form of cable, DSL, and wireless is available in most areas within the city limits. Digital Television Cable service is available as well.
Proximity to Metro Areas
Fort Payne lies in a gorgeous, scenic valley between Lookout and Sand Mountains in the northeast corner of Alabama. Chattanooga, Tennessee lies approximately 55 miles to the north, Gadsden, Alabama is 39 miles to the south. Each are easily traveled to via Interstate 59.
Atlanta, Georgia to the southeast is about 2 hours drive, Birmingham to the south and Huntsville to the west are only about an hour and half drive. This convenience allows residents the easy-going pleasures of small town living with easy access to metropolitan attractions. The best of both worlds is available to residents of Fort Payne.
Area Climate
Northeast Alabama is blessed with four distinct seasons. Winters are generally mild with a few cold snaps dipping below 20 degrees. Higher elevations receive more snow than the valleys with accumulations that last no more than a few of days.
Spring comes rather early in this area with narcissus popping up as soon as late February. Then the yellow belles are followed quickly by redbud and dogwood trees. Summers here are hot but not unbearable with some nights being cool enough to enjoy open windows.
Our local area is well known for its spectacular Autumn colors. The trees during the Fall season are stunning and the cool air of this mountainous region allow the saturated hues to remain brilliant for longer periods of time. (top)