Economic Development
Economic Development is a crucial focus for local and state government agencies committed to fostering job creation, attracting investments, and improving community prosperity. Governments can stimulate economic activity and enhance regional competitiveness by implementing strategies that support business growth, infrastructure development, and workforce training. This directory provides articles on economic development alongside related topics like Workforce Development, which examines initiatives to enhance the skills and employability of the local labor force.
Cambridge, Mass., has passed the country’s strictest pet shops ordinance, restricting the sale of pets to animal rescue organizations and shelters.
Stadiums are elements of economic development, but one researcher found that using public funds to construct them does not pay public dividends.
With recreational marijuana established in Massachusetts, the state launches new strategies targeting stoned driving. Canada proposes THC limits.
In Menlo Park, CA, housing constraints and traffic congestion have led Facebook to take on an economic development project that will create a 10-acre housing development including businesses to serve the community. Our take on the initiative inside.
A recent economics study of California’s medical marijuana policy since 1996 shows multiple lessons to be learned and what to expect behavorially from new rollouts in Colorado and Washington state.
A new commitment to walkability is having an impact on economic development in Atlanta. Since 2009, 60 percent of retail, office and residential development has incorporated walkable design.
A city and county in New York merged economic development groups in an effort to streamline efforts and increase cost-effectiveness. This and coverage of similar activities in Virginia and North Carolina.
Efforts to cull red tape from over-regulation of development is leading to expedited permitting and new tax-increment financing strategies. We cover projects in East Providence, RI and Crestview, FL.
A new report from the Sustainable Economies Law Center provides key insight into the new “sharing economy” and how your city can optimize resources while encouraging innovation.
Nashville, TN, recently adopted an ordinance that allows its park board to accept corporate sponsorship from private entities for facilities and events. Details of this and Montgomery County, MD’s sponsorship policy inside
Cambridge, Maryland, recently purchased 700 acres of land and working with local business owners developed a new unified development code to update zoning regulations. Inside we provide links to its new plan for growth and how business owners and residents will benefit
Lakewood, NJ, is facing a doubling of its 100k population in the next two decades. How will it deal with infrastructure, sustainability, open space and transportation? Read the report inside
In an effort to foster the local economy and help turn around a lethargic community, Gary, Indiana, has taken the unique approach of selling vacant homes or abandoned property for just $1 to qualifying residents or businesses. We report on Gary’s and other cities’ efforts
As Detroit begins to plan its revitalization, urban farming is being seen as a core component. We detail a study showing that a small shift in spending towards investing in farming could generate almost 5,000 new jobs and $20 million in new tax revenue. Read inside
A study details a path for communities to benefit from working with nearby higher education institutions. Learn about the outline methods, benefits and potential outcomes.
A survey of housing options in Boise showed new residents willing to pay 12.5 percent more to live in walkable proximity to schools, parks and restaurants.
What is an LID and how can it your city use it to help finance community projects? Read how Wenatchee, WA and other municipalities are utilizing them
Camden, ME, recently received $490k to implement an economic development master plan. The funding, while from Maine’s DOT, originally derived from the federal DOT’s TAP Grant program. Read inside for details
Reducing carbon emissions is the method San Jose has chosen to generate more than 25,000 new jobs by 2022. Inside, Gov1 details the city’s efforts cut waste and energy while driving the local economy
