05/27/2026
Harnett County is growing, but it’s no accident.
Between Raleigh and Fayetteville with easy access to major highways and transportation networks, the county has quietly built one of the most business-friendly environments in the state. Competitive tax rates, strong infrastructure, and a massive regional talent pool have made it a serious destination for companies thinking long term.
The Godwin Group is a perfect example of what putting down roots here can look like. Located in Harnett County, a family operation that started small has scaled into one of the biggest family owned truck equipment manufacturers in the country, while keeping roots close to home. Beyond their growth, they’ve invested back into the community through workforce development programs with local schools and colleges, creating real career pathways for the next generation.
Harnett County helped kick off RTRP’s county spotlight campaign with a story rooted in family, legacy, and long-term growth. Our existing relationship gave us the context to move quickly, combining new footage with material from the previous project to meet a tight turnaround without losing the thread of the larger narrative.
Second-generation Phyllis Ann Godwin Strickland shares what kept her family rooted here and what makes the region such a strong foundation for growth.
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Harnett County Government
