ALBANY, Ga. (AP) -- FedEx Corp. is planning a new distribution center for its ground shipping operation in southwest Georgia.

The Albany Herald reports that FedEx Ground is tripling its space at an Albany industrial center off Liberty Expressway.

Officials say the new distribution center will encompass 61,000 square feet of space on a nine-acre area in the Parkway Industrial Center adjacent to its current facility.

Dougherty County Commission Chairman Jeff Sinyard said that Memphis-based FedEx's decision to expand was positive message for Albany and Dougherty County.

Albany Mayor Dorothy Hubbard said the arrangement was encouraging and she's hopeful that the expansion will bring some jobs with it. Hubbard said officials don't know exactly how the project will affect jobs, but she's hopeful that it will lead to more employment.