Meghan Richardson, EDFP

The Orlando Economic Partnership was formed in early 2017, the result of a merger between the Central Florida Partnership and the Orlando Economic Development Commission. Seven years later, as our community celebrates Economic Development Week, the OEP's economic development results defy a period of global uncertainty. Read more from Neil Hamilton, Vice President of Market Intelligence, Orlando Economic Partnership, in his recent commentary. 🔗 Orlando Business Journal #OrlandoUnbelievablyReal #EconDevWeek

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East Tennessee Economic Council (ETEC) staff members, Tracy Boatner, Nicole Allen, Melodie McDonald and Hailey Lewis are working hard to make #NOW2024 the best year yet! We are refining agenda content; coming up with unique ways to connect and engage all of our attendees, including students; and, planning menus for breakfast, lunch, and the Atomic After Party!   #ETECNOW #ETECNOW2024 #NOW2024 #NOWAtomicAfterParty #NuclearIsHere #BuildingTNNuclearWorkforce #NuclearEnergy #AdvancedNuclear #NuclearMedicine #NuclearCleanup #NuclearFuel #NuclearWorkforce #FusionEnergy #NuclearInnovations #NuclearTechnologies #NuclearOpportunities #NewNuclear #NuclearDevelopment #NuclearMissions #NuclearSustainability #NuclearPolicy

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Economic development is about community development at it's heart - check out NCEDA's legislative priorities below to learn more about what we're doing across the state to improve and support our communities! #economicdevelopmentweek #economicdevelopment #NCEDA

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Shape the Future of SC's Transportation! South Carolina is planning for the future of how we get around with Momentum 2050, and YOUR voice matters! Take a quick survey at https://lnkd.in/er_KXXtr to share your thoughts on what's important for our state's transportation system. Consider factors like: ⚠️Safety while traveling our SC roads 🚍Connectivity between communities 📈Economic opportunity for businesses and our communities 👨‍🦼Equity providing all with opportunity to access essential needs 🌱Environmental sustainability for a cleaner future Strong public transportation can be a game-changer for all of these! It connects our rural communities providing them with a reliable and safe way to get around, it reduces traffic congestion, improves air quality and connects people to jobs, healthcare, education and other opportunities. Learn more here and take the survey and make your voice heard! https://lnkd.in/er_KXXtr #SCMomentum2050 #publictransit

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Come see what all the #AirUPro hype is about and learn how you can help make your city smarter! #SCCSpring2024 #TELLUS #smartcitiesconnect #airqualitymatters

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I (Keeli Crewe, small business owner of Area 61) am truly excited to see these projects implemented -- they've been talking about them for so long, I'd love to see movement to completion. "The Bend" redevelopment and Westside Evolves have been in the design, tax-incentives and city approval processes for how many years now? I've fallen for it often, but don't think for a minute that community input (formerly known in the industry as charettes - stakeholders in a project attempt to resolve conflicts and map solutions) will redirect what happens to Hawk Hill, Broad Street Reimagined, Rise Partners' redevelopment of the parking lot between EPB and TVA, or even the TVA buildings. Too often the morning after a community meeting (charette) renderings publish in local articles that wouldn't be that complete if the input from the previous event was incorporated. Most of the input meetings I've attended already have those options and are often leading in what aspects they want you to influence. So I feel there is already a plan for each, and if we keep reading articles like this with consistent talking points to build anticipation and excitement, you'll think it was all your plan anyway [NOT that further growth and development for our city will be bad - consistency is key in advertising and buyer behavior]. https://lnkd.in/eFJWP6RR

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The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) and the County Department of General Services (DGS) have released a Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Transition Plan to convert the County’s transit fleet of nearly 400 Ride On buses to zero-emission vehicles by 2035. The Ride On bus system currently operates 14 electric vehicles.     The ZEB plan is purposely flexible to accommodate for emerging technology and relies heavily on State and Federal grants that MCDOT has so far been successful in receiving. Recent grant awards have totaled more than $30 million for environmentally friendly transportation solutions over the last two years.   “We’ve been aggressively pursuing funding opportunities made available to us on both the State and Federal level,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Often the State funds we receive are used as a match for Federal grant applications. We’ve got a long road ahead, but following the plan we have in place I believe a zero-emissions fleet is fully attainable by or before 2035. The plan is comprehensive, innovative and flexible and it will be updated regularly to reflect new funding streams and advanced technology options.”   The County has secured a contract to purchase 100 additional battery electric buses over the next three years. However, the range limitations of current battery electric vehicles present a challenge for current longer-range bus routes. Alternative technology is being sought to compensate for these longer-range needs. MCDOT secured a Federal grant last year for its first 13 hydrogen buses and a clean hydrogen fueling station at the Gaithersburg bus depot. DGS is managing the project and will break ground on that project next year.  One of the greatest challenges among zero-emission transitions is building clean energy charging infrastructure to support them.   DGS leveraged a partnership with the privately owned AlphaStruxure, a leading developer of sustainable energy infrastructure projects through an Energy as a Service (EaaS) solution. It is a long-term agreement without upfront capital expenditures. In October 2022, the County unveiled what at the time was the nation’s largest solar-powered microgrid for charging of public buses at the Brookville bus depot in Silver Spring. The Brookville microgrid can charge up to 70 battery electric buses with solar power.    DGS is heading up the implementation of an even larger microgrid that will be breaking ground at the Gaithersburg bus depot late this spring to power the future hydrogen bus project and provide additional charging infrastructure for electric buses. This solar-powered microgrid will be the sixth microgrid for the County and will be in operation next year.     For more information and to view the Zero Emissions Bus Transition Plan, visit the website here > https://lnkd.in/eTgAAtTm

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ICYMI, Greenville City Council unanimously adopted the FY24/25 budget as provided to us for consideration by our City Manager. Highlighting some of the many areas that are funded based on Priorities set by City Council: -Increased funding to support Affordable and Workforce housing initiatives, $10.3M -Increased funding for Greenlink Transit to help expand select routes to provide 30-minute service, $12.3M -Increased investment in Public Safety facilities and equipment, $8.9M -Increased investment in neighborhoods through our Neighborhood Infrastructure Bond (II)and NStep Sidewalk program, $19M These are examples of the investments we are making to positively impact the quality of life for ALL Greenvillians. ALL this provided WITHOUT a millage (tax) increase for our property owners!

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North Carolina lawmakers have returned to Raleigh and this year's legislative session is now underway. In this episode of "5 Things to Know," our Ann Webb of Common Cause NC looks at some of what’s ahead at the legislature. Learn more at CommonCauseNC.org #NorthCarolina #NCpolitics

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The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) received three achievement awards for 2024 from the National Association of Counties (NACo) in the categories of Transportation, Community and Economic Development, and Personnel Management, Employment and Training. NACo Awards are an annual recognition program that honors outstanding county government programs and services. NACo Awards have been sharing best practices between counties since 1970. “The Montgomery County Department of Transportation continues to develop forward-thinking programs that prioritize equitable, climate-friendly transportation, strengthen our business partnerships, and champion our employees,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “I am pleased that NACo recognizes MCDOT as a national leader in solving some of the most critical issues facing local communities today.” 🌟MCDOT received the following awards from NACo: ⭐️Dedicated Bus Lanes Project – Transportation: The University Boulevard dedicated bus lane project added more than two miles of dedicated bus lanes along one of the area’s busiest and most congested corridors. The dedicated bus lanes will improve the daily commute for thousands of workers, students and residents along this corridor who depend on public transportation. The dedicated lane initiative is part of MCDOT’s Bus Priority Project, which aims to prioritize transportation options that are equitable and climate friendly. ���️Maximizing Underutilized Public Parking by Partnering with Long-Term Lease – Community and Economic Development: Changes in the economic landscape in the Bethesda Parking Lot District (PLD) resulted in underutilized parking facilities. MCDOT was able to enter into a long-term parking lease agreement that allowed the Woodmont Corner Public Parking Garage 11 to be available during business hours for lease customers while remaining publicly available after business hours. The agreement has allowed the County to generate additional revenue while lowering development costs for businesses. ⭐️Problem Solving Committees – Personnel Management, Employment, and Training: MCDOT Transit Services' high staff turnover, particularly among bus operators, was attributed to low morale rather than wage disparities. To address this, Montgomery County Transit Services, along with the Innovation Team, established problem-solving committees. These committees aimed to decentralize decision-making and empower staff by giving them a voice in leadership choices. Each committee, facilitated by Depot and Central Communication Chiefs, focused on a specific challenge identified by staff consensus, such as policy changes, teamwork, communication, or employee recognition. Montgomery County earned a total of 34 NACo Achievement Awards for 2024. The list of all national winners can be seen at the National Association of Counties NACo Achievement Award Winners website. Website > https://lnkd.in/eZRYwNK9

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Announcement Alert:   The North Carolina Railroad Company is excited to announce the launch of two new economic development programs - the Micro-Grant and Brownfields Programs.   Our Micro-grant program will provide funding to eliminate barriers to entry for site development, while the Brownfields program will complement our existing Build Ready Sites program. These programs will increase the pipeline of sites made ready, promote economic growth, and boost job creation and freight rail usage.   These new programs are a testament to NCRR's commitment to fostering partnerships with state and local communities, providing innovative, best-in-class services, and facilitating opportunities that lead to #EconomicGrowth. By leveraging these initiatives, we aim to create a ripple effect of opportunity and #Growth across the state, which will benefit every community.   More information will be made available on our website, https://lnkd.in/gtHiqWMH   #ForeverInMotion #EconomicDevelopment #NCInvestments

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The economic impact of North Carolina’s agriculture and agribusiness industry surged to $111.1 billion, marking a second consecutive year of robust growth. The NC Chamber, #NCChamberFoundation, #NCAgLeads, and #OurAgFutureNC are actively supporting the continued growth of North Carolina's agriculture industry. Learn how they are engaging with this booming industry: https://lnkd.in/grQEfu8b #NCAgriculture

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City Budget Gets Council Approval with Public Safety at the Forefront GREENVILLE, N.C. — The City of Greenville will invest more in public safety, infrastructure, recreation, and other core services in the operating budget approved by the City Council on Thursday night. The $175.96 City spending plan aligns with the goals of the City Council and includes an adopted property tax rate of 39.54 cents. The adopted rate is 2.69 cents higher than a revenue-neutral rate with public safety investments accounting for approximately half of the $2.9 million in additional revenue. Along with City operating funds, the 2024-25 overall budget of $483.4 million includes $302.2 million for Greenville Utilities Commission, $2.05 million for the Convention & Visitors Authority, and $3.2 million for Sheppard Memorial Library. City Council approved the budget in a 5-1 vote with Council member Les Robinson opposing.. Among the increased investments in public safety are $700,000 in pay adjustments to help with recruitment and retainment, six new Fire/EMS positions, and a new fire marshal position. The budget also funds a 4 percent average wage increase for City employees and an increase in the 401k employer contribution to 3 percent. The City is increasing infrastructure investment through the pavement management program ($3.05 million total investment) and $100,000 more for sidewalk expansions. There is also $125,000 additional funding for Recreation and Parks operations and $300,000 for Public Works operations. The new spending plan also includes $250,000 for pedestrian safety projects, $375,000 in local funding to support housing programs, $500,000 for the city's economic development partnership, and $600,000 for beautification efforts. For more details, please visit: https://lnkd.in/esZcHTQR

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https://lnkd.in/esc3vA5c The results of a recent Nc Department Of Commerce study uncovered significant economic impacts generated by the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. According to the study, the event: ·     Created 625 jobs for North Carolinians ·     Increased the value of the statewide economy by $42.4 million ·     Increased statewide labor income by $27.9 million ·     Led to over $20 million in direct construction and infrastructure investment in Wilkes County ��     Generated nearly $29 million in visitor spending The 2023 All Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway brought about substantial economic growth to our state, showcasing the immense potential of motorsports in driving economic prosperity. Of particular interest to my work in tourism, survey results showed Race attendees: ·      spent $28.9 million on food, accommodation, travel, etc. and 41% of attendees were from outside of North Carolina (only 12% of total attendees were from Wilkes County.)  ·      attended from as far away as California, Washington state, Canada and New Zealand.  ·      36% stayed in North Carolina at least two nights and 25% stayed at least four nights ·      attended 2.3 other NASCAR events over All-Star Race weekend, in addition to the main All-Star Race I want to thank our elected leaders, Representative Jeffrey Elmore and Senator Settle Eddie whose unwavering support and dedication made this study possible. Their commitment to understanding and harnessing the economic benefits of events like the NASCAR All-Star Race is commendable and underscores their vision for a thriving North Carolina. Also, Speedway Motorsports and our local governments and community partners for creating a seamless experience from start to finish. This study serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government, private industry, and community stakeholders in fostering economic development and prosperity. It's inspiring to see how initiatives like these can not only elevate our state's profile but also create tangible opportunities for businesses and communities across North Carolina. Let's continue to build on this momentum and explore new avenues for economic growth and prosperity. Together, we can drive North Carolina forward and unlock its full potential as a powerhouse for innovation, opportunity, and prosperity. #NASCAR #EconomicImpact #NorthCarolina #Collaboration #Community #Leadership

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"As an iconic new cultural anchor at the heart of the Bay Park, the Sarasota Performing Arts Center will ensure that Sarasota’s cultural economy continues to flourish for years to come, bringing new jobs, visitor spending, and tax dollars to the city and region,” said HR&A Advisors Principal Alexander Stokes.   The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation and the City of Sarasota have released an economic impact study, prepared by HR&A Advisors, highlighting the transformative impact of the new performing arts center on Sarasota County. The study forecasts over $150 million in annual economic activity, surpassing the current impact of the existing performing arts hall by 30%. The new center is projected to create 1,200 permanent jobs and generate $300 million in tax revenues over 30 years, marking a significant advancement for the city's cultural and economic vitality.    Read the full report below.     #EconomicImpact #SarasotaArts #CommunityGrowth

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🚌 🚗 🛵 10 Reasons NOT to Miss NADO’s National Regional Transportation Conference July 30-August 1 in Greenville, SC: 1️⃣ Learn about current federal funding and technical assistance efforts, hear how they apply to rural/small metro places, and discuss how to position your organization and region to take advantage of future opportunities. 2️⃣ Celebrate rural safety and learn about planning for the prevention of rural roadway departures. 3️⃣ Network with other transportation, planning, and development professionals serving rural/small metro and tribal areas, as well as state and local partners. 4️⃣ Hear about successful state-regional-local partnership models for planning and implementing transportation. 5️⃣ Practice using a new tool for communications strategies. 6️⃣ Learn about bicycle and pedestrian friendliness in smaller communities, including public outreach, conducting counts, and bike/ped planning. 7️⃣ Find out what you can do about General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS), a new required reporting element for many transit agencies. 8️⃣ Be inspired by hearing about emerging transportation technology and fuels, models for regional transit and mobility in rural and small metro areas, regional freight issues, connections between rural transportation and wealth creation, and more. 9️⃣ Earn American Planning Association AICP Certification Maintenance credits. 🔟 See old friends and colleagues and make new acquaintances doing similar work around the U.S. The early bird registration rate deadline has been extended to this Friday, July 5! Register now: https://lnkd.in/eNF-vgT8

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LWV-Wake encourages active participation in government. Here's an opportunity for Raleigh residents to get involved! The Raleigh City Council is asking for feedback from the community on upcoming election changes. The City of Raleigh Community Feedback Workshop for Municipal Election Changes is being held on May 1st from 6-8pm at John Chavis Park. Raleigh citizens are being asked for feedback on three items under consideration. You will have the opportunity to weigh in on: Should there be a change from two-year terms to four-year staggered terms? Should there be an addition of three district seats, bringing the total number to 11? Should there be a shift from a non-partisan plurality to a non-partisan primary election format? To sign up for this Feedback Workshop, click here: https://lnkd.in/e6CwgJvY

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How cool to be featured in BusinessWest's BusinessTalk podcast with Joe Bednar! Want to learn more about how the Franklin County Community Development Corporation can help your business? Listen in!

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