Economic Development and Developers in the News # 178
Econ dev news from 43 economic development executives and organizations in 26 states.
Welcome to the 178th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.
Today's issue contains news from 43 economic development executives and organizations in 26 states.
If this is your first time reading: Hello!
The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and email newsletter actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson.
Listen now in your favorite podcast player, or subscribe.
To submit your organization's news, please use this form.
The Econ Dev Show is proudly presented by Dane Carlson's innovative project: Sitehunt.
Does your economic development website need a directory of your buildings and sites?
That's literally 1% of what Sitehunt does.
Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform designed to build comprehensive economic development property databases, enabling hyper-efficient RFI responses. At a fraction of the cost of other property mapping solutions, Sitehunt empowers you to:
- Streamline Your Processes: Automate and enhance your property data management.
- Boost Your Efficiency: Respond to RFIs faster with accurate and detailed information.
- Maximize Your Budget: Affordable solutions for communities of all sizes.
Plus, it has AI.
Transform your economic development efforts with Sitehunt. Explore the platform today!
Alabama
A vacant Burger King in Pelham has been purchased to developed into a new quick-service restaurant, aligning with Pelham's Plan Pelham to enhance investment along U.S. 31 using incentive programs. (Economic Development Director, Michael Simon)
Pike Road Town Council has approved the annexation of 36 acres on Troy Highway to establish its first economic development park, aiming to provide jobs and diversify the local economy beyond its current major employers. The park is part of a long-term plan to create a comprehensive community that includes industrial projects and diverse job opportunities.
Arizona
Arizona State University has been chosen as the site for the National Semiconductor Technology Center's new facility, a substantial win underscoring the United States' efforts to dominate global semiconductor technology.
Arkansas
Jack Thomas, vice president of economic development with the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce, highlights Central Arkansas' emergence as a hub for manufacturing, distribution, and logistics, with 42 major projects since 2020 leading to over 11,000 jobs and $2 billion in capital investment.
California
San Anselmo is engaging residents in shaping its future with an online economic development survey linked to the town's general plan update. The two-year process aims to integrate commercial growth, housing, and community design priorities.
San Diego has shelved plans for a 405-unit affordable housing project at Seventh Avenue and Market Street due to market challenges, pivoting instead towards a future multi-use development that includes affordable housing. Economic Development Director Christina Bibler cited the scarcity of funding as a major hindrance.
Georgia
South Cobb has unveiled its comprehensive economic development strategy for 2025, focusing on enhancing infrastructure, attracting businesses, and fostering community growth.
Georgia has been named the No. 1 state for Best Business Climate by Site Selection Magazine, highlighting its strong workforce, strategic infrastructure investments, and business-friendly policies.
The Savannah metropolitan area's economy is poised to surpass the growth rates of both Georgia and the national economy in 2025, driven largely by a significant expansion in the manufacturing sector.
Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns announced the development of the state's first comprehensive resource management plan in over 20 years to support ongoing economic development projects, including data centers and manufacturing.
