Economic Development and Developers in the News # 197
Econ dev news from 89 economic development executives and organizations in 25 states.
Welcome to the 197th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.
Today's issue contains news from 89 economic development executives and organizations in 25 states.
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The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and email newsletter delivering actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson.
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Alabama
Nicole Wadsworth, an economic developer from north Alabama, is expected to enter the 2026 race for Alabama lieutenant governor, joining a growing field of candidates as state officials began accepting campaign donations for the upcoming election.
The Alabama Department of Commerce awarded a $1.27 million SEEDS grant to the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and the Montgomery Industrial Development Board to support the acquisition and development of the 111-acre Del Sol property, strengthening the region's potential for industrial and logistics growth. (President and CEO Anna Buckalew)
Arkansas
The Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation expanded its resources for entrepreneurs and communities through grants, startup accelerators, marketing initiatives, and the forthcoming "Rec Tech" venture fund. Outdoor recreation supported more than 68,000 jobs and contributed $7.3 billion to Arkansas's GDP. (Director Katherine Andrews)
Mary Godwin, Prescott-Nevada County Economic Development Director, reported continued progress in attracting new businesses to the area. The city also advanced a feasibility study for a proposed 54-room Cobblestone Hotel near a major interstate exit.
California
The $30 million Courtyard by Marriott opened in Pittsburg, developed with $4.2 million in city support. It is expected to generate approximately $500,000 annually in transient occupancy tax revenue. (Community and Economic Development Director Jordan Davis)
The San Diego City Council authorized a $7.9 million agreement with nonprofit Father Joe's Villages to convert a former Homelessness Response Center into 164 affordable housing units. (Economic Development Director Christina Bibler)
