Challenge Richmond’s population gains since the 2000 Census marked a reversal from contractions led by white flight and urban disinvestment in prior decades. In addition to its robust population growth, the city began drawing attention for its amenities including an emerging arts, food, and craft beer scene; a vibrant African
Challenge A dramatic rise in energy prices leading up to the Great Recession—with crude oil spiking at more than $140 per barrel in mid-2008—suggested the era of cheap petroleum was coming to an end. Surging prices for fossil fuels, coupled with air quality and national security concerns, contributed to a
Challenge Idaho has become one of the fastest growing states in the nation, with a steady flow of workers moving to the Gem State from states like California, Washington, and Oregon. Rural Idaho has seen net population gains from this migration as well as from the movement of Idahoans from
Challenge Located in South Carolina’s Upstate region, Greenville County is home to one of the nation’s most vibrant economies. Its long track record of attracting large-scale domestic and international investment has garnered media attention, including the front page of the Wall Street Journal and a segment on CBS’s 60 Minutes.
Challenge With a thriving petrochemical industry, strong educational assets, and a vibrant local culture, Pasadena, Texas, is a significant contributor to the Houston metro area economy. The city’s central role in this dynamic region is reinforced by its geographic location (just 15 minutes from downtown Houston) and its status as
Challenge Proximity to interstates I-14 and I-35, an affordable cost of living, and an abundance of retail amenities makes Harker Heights, Texas, an ideal location for businesses looking for easy access the state’s major metro areas and an attractive quality of life for their employees. The city also benefits from
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 The Tampa Bay metropolitan area has experienced unprecedented expansion on multiple fronts over the past five years. With population growth rates that outpace national trends, a resilient and expanding base of employers, and new avenues for economic diversification through emerging and niche industries, Tampa Bay has transformed from a
Challenge Shaped by its origins as a stagecoach and railroad stop in the 1800s, the City of Beaumont (City) benefits from its scenic surroundings; strategic location in Riverside County, California; and strong quality of place. These advantages have helped fuel the City’s rapid residential growth over the past two decades,
Challenge Home to Columbia, South Carolina’s state capital, Richland County boasts an impressive array of assets, including postsecondary institutions, transportation infrastructure, and the US Army’s Fort Jackson. Richland County also offers unique neighborhoods; historical landmarks and homes; a thriving riverfront; cultural, arts, and entertainment offerings; and outdoor recreation. This attractive
