Q: With so many movie-makers in the state, how much do they invest in Georgia?
Patrick Owens, Sandy Springs
A: More than 274 productions were shot in Georgia from July 1 last year to June 30, investing $589.2 million in the state, according to the Georgia Department of Economic Development. These projects have generated an economic impact of $2.1 billion. With the increase in production, the state has experienced huge growth in infrastructure, including facilities such as EUE/Screen Gems at the old Lakewood property in Atlanta, department spokeswoman Stefanie Paupeck told Q&A on the News. Local vendors such as camera companies, casting agents, caterers, equipment rental houses, props and wardrobe suppliers, post production companies and music scoring facilities also can be found in Georgia. The investment number also covers hotel room nights, cleaners, property rental (including location fees) and retail stores. Productions also employ local talent, including thousands of extras.
Q: Have the cameras that watch the highways such as Ga. 400 and Interstate 285 ever been used for accident investigations, and can they?
Jack Jordan, Alpharetta
A: The cameras are used for real-time traffic observation and there is no recording done on these cameras, Karlene Barron, spokeswoman for the Georgia Department of Transportation, told Q&A on the News.
Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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