Challenge Created in the 1980s to manage the transformation of a former stadium into the Mall of America, the Port Authority of the City of Bloomington Minnesota (the Port Authority) has seen its role in the city’s economic development efforts expand greatly over time. First, the organization’s purpose was redefined […]
Challenge Situated in northern Illinois, Grundy County’s rural charm, robust transportation network, and proximity to Chicago have spurred industrial development and attracted individuals and families seeking less densely populated areas. However, steady population gains and continued industrial expansion have highlighted the need to better balance growth with preservation of the
Challenge Faced with the closure of the Charleston Naval Complex in the early 1990s and the loss of some 22,000 jobs, Charleston County leaders responded decisively, establishing an economic development function with broad deal-making authority and dedicated funding. The decision proved to be a game-changer when Charleston was selected as
Challenge From its inception, Rosenberg has enjoyed a unique position in the Texas Gulf Coast region. Located just 30 miles from Houston, the city’s notable infrastructure—which includes three major railways, an interstate highway, and Port Freeport—contributes to its historic reputation as a hub for industrial production and distribution. Coupled with
Challenge Rancho Cordova, California, is well-positioned as a dynamic economic hub in the Sacramento region. The community’s geographic location, diverse workforce, and business-friendly environment have already attracted significant employers in healthcare, insurance, and manufacturing. However, economic and social shifts following the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a more resilient
Challenge From its origins as a farming community, Auburn has transformed into a center for industry, serving as home to one of Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ most essential fabrication sites and the world’s largest airplane parts plant. The community’s commitment to quality of place is evident in its attention to civic
Challenge Northeast Florida offers residents a high quality of life with a wide range of amenities, including access to ocean beaches, inland waterways, and other outdoor recreational opportunities as well as options for rural and urban living. Over the past decade, population has increased significantly across the region as skilled
Challenge The competition for investment, jobs, and talent in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and the larger North Texas Region is fierce. Many surrounding communities have well-funded sales tax corporations or other economic development entities that allow them to compete at the highest levels. Within the City of Dallas, the Office
Challenge The Baltimore Region has seen steady growth and development over the past 20 years, the result of both broad economic forces and localized strategies that leverage its strong foundation of assets including its strategic East Coast location, relative affordability, active waterfront, and diverse talent pool. The region is also
Challenge West Virginia’s Kanawha Valley region, anchored by the Charleston metropolitan area, faces long-standing economic challenges including troubling population loss, below-average employment growth, lagging unemployment rates, and low levels of workforce participation. At the same time, new leadership and promising opportunities sparked a renewed sense of agency, urgency, and optimism
