FDI Alliance International Magazine | September 2018

MAPS WITH PORTS RAIL ExPANSION

The City of Dayton, is a small town with a big future. (the third loop around Houston under construction times of change, the City of Dayton is now more
Located just 30 miles east of the larger Houston’s through Dayton), Gulf Inland Logistics Park (a dual community-oriented than ever. The City is encouraging
metropolitan area on Highway 90, Dayton is the rail served park of 1500 acres), abundant water and and facilitating public engagement to get the people
fastest-growing city in southeast Texas. This friendly sewer capacity, fiber optics, natural gas, underground involved in shaping their future. Development plans
community is a great place to live, work, and play- a pipelines (that industries use as feed stock for their such as creating more parks, programs for children,
place where families and businesses can grow and products), 30 minutes from two international airports, and a Downtown District are all efforts to bring
prosper. quality low cost land, and 30 minutes from the Port a diverse community together and build strong
of Houston makes the City uniquely positioned as a relationships.
Historically, rice production, cattle ranching, and
leading competitor in the global market for businesses
oil, had shaped the economy of Dayton, and while Preserving Dayton’s sense of community is vital, but
that will create well-paying jobs, drive economic
these industries are still integral to its economic this small town is evolving to make room for the big
growth, and enhance the quality of life in Dayton.
well-being, job opportunities are expanding to include city amenities. It is possible to have the best of both
employment in industries such as metal fabrication, The City of Dayton has a strong leadership team that worlds, and the City of Dayton is on its way to turning
works closely together to lead Dayton into a bright
chemical refining, rail uses, and numerous types this vision of a diverse and prosperous community
future. From planning and developing, to public
of retail, which have become major employers for into a reality. We are already seeing the remarkable
works and municipalities, these fearless leaders are
the community. Organizations such as the Dayton progress the City is making in attracting industrial
coming together with a common goal to serve our
Community Development Corporation (DCDC) and developments and housing (currently 29,000 homes
customers - the public. The passion and diligence
the Dayton Chamber of Commerce were created by in various stages of development), and this is only
that these individuals are bringing to their work
the City to assist the development and expansion of the beginning. While it continues to honor its past, a
is creative, innovative, inclusive, and leading the
new and existing businesses. These organizations are bright future lies ahead for Dayton and it is stepping
community towards a higher quality of life.
committed and eager to support business development up to accommodate new growth and development.
within the community. The existing infrastructure of From its history to its future, there is an unparalleled
five highways intersecting downtown, State Route 99 sense of pride felt within the community. In these











GLObAL TUbING FUTURE DOWNTOWN
Courtland Holman
Executive Director

Dayton Community Development
Corporation 801 S.Cleveland Suite B
Dayton, TX 77535
T: 936-257-0055
www.daytontx.com
NEW RESIDENTIAL GRAND PARKWAy




FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 51

GOVERNOR

JOHN BEL EDWARDS





STATE OF




LOUISIANA










Louisiana is a southeastern U.S. state on the Gulf of of new ideas, products and services. In every region, what Louisiana companies have come to know:
Mexico. Its history as a melting pot of French, African, Louisiana companies are developing revolutionary When it comes to applicable workforce expansion,
American and French-Canadian cultures is reflected technologies, more efficient production methods no one does it better than LED FastStart.”
in its Creole and Cajun cultures. The largest city, and new business styles that result in better quality Louisiana is preparing its next generation of workers
New Orleans, is known for its colonial-era French and service for consumers worldwide. for careers in fields that will continue to be in high
Quarter, raucous Mardi Gras festival, jazz music, demand, that’s why they have formulated such ex-
Renaissance-style St. Louis Cathedral and wartime “Technology-based training is a vital tool for building tensive partnerships with secondary and higher ed-
exhibits at the huge National WWII Museum. a successful 21st century economy,” Gov. John Bel ucation institutions throughout the state in a broad
Edwards said. “When it comes to workforce develop- range of workforce development programs.
John Bel Edwards is the 56th and current Governor ment, it’s not enough to do one good thing over and
of Louisiana since 2016. He was previously the Mi- over. LED FastStart has remained the national leader Above and beyond regular campus funding, the
nority Leader of the Louisiana House of Representa- thanks to its evolving, technology-based approach State of Louisiana has dedicated over $65 million
tives for two terms. He left the state legislature to run to worker training that is both client-oriented and for- in recent years to higher education initiatives that are
for governor in 2015. ward-looking. Our agenda gives Louisiana workers supplying talent to major technology employers, with
the best opportunities to acquire high quality jobs, or FastStart support, and resulting in more than 13,000
Louisiana is a thriving state for innovation. Entrepre- transfer to a better job, and it provides high-quality new jobs.
neurs and business leaders in the state capitalize on workforce solutions to companies investing in Louisi-
a business conditions that fosters the advancement ana. This establishing by Business Facilities validates

RuSTON, LOuISIANA


IS DRIvING GROWTH


THROuGH CONNECTIvITy








Ruston, Louisiana, located in the north central portion of the state, is creating throughout Ruston and has significantly and positively impacted their business.
opportunities and growth through various means of connectivity. Ruston is
Not satisfied with the status quo, when Ronny Walker took the oath of the Mayor’s
already very accessible due to our location in relation to national markets. The
office in January 2015, he made a vow to improve aging infrastructure, to further
City of Ruston sits at the intersections of Interstate 20 and Highways 167 and
improve Ruston’s quality of life, and to improve and expand Ruston’s connectivity.
33. Interstate 20 connects Dallas, TX to Atlanta, GA. Highway 167 connects
In January 2016 he put that plan into action. Mayor Walker provided his vision
Alexandria, LA to Little Rock, AR, and Highway 33 connects Ruston to the
for the future of Ruston that would be put into place over the next twenty (20)
Louisiana/Arkansas border. The Kansas City Southern Meridian Speedway
years, which included a number of critical infrastructure improvements. The
rail line also runs through the heart of Ruston directly connecting Shreveport,
vision was called Moving Ruston Forward (MRF). The proposed improvements
LA to Meridian, MS.
consisted of water and sewer upgrades, road infrastructure improvements,
Ruston has also increased the speed and connectivity in which our local businesses walking and biking trails, economic development projects, and a regional sports
can access the global marketplace. The City owns a 30+ mile fiber network complex. The cost for these projects totaled over $90 million, which could only
that offers up to 10 Gbps which translates into higher speed, higher capacity, be funded by adding an additional revenue source. Mayor Walker asked the
and greater reliability of data access. This system has significant commercial Ruston citizens to support a 3/4 cent sales tax that would be used solely to
value and is a substantial competitive advantage for businesses in need of high fund the Moving Ruston Forward projects. In April 2016 the citizens of Ruston
quality data transfer. This fiber network is offered to commercial businesses voted 69% to approve the additional sales tax.


54 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

While all of the proposed projects will have an between neighborhoods, businesses, parks, grade proximity to a college or university, and 2) it had to
enormous impact on the citizens of Ruston, there schools, Delta Community College, Louisiana Center be located on a pedestrian path. The City of Ruston
is one project that the Mayor is particularly excited for the Blind, and Louisiana Tech University. The was able to find property for the Developer less than
about – the walking and biking trails. The primary Greenway also greatly expands access to healthcare, 0.25 miles from the Louisiana Tech University campus
trail is being developed along the former railroad jobs, social support services, cultural centers, and directly adjacent to phase 2 of the Greenway.
right-of-way running north-south through Ruston and and recreation. The Greenway represents a starting The Developer will break ground this fall.
Lincoln Parish. It has been hailed as the Rock Island block for a city-wide trail system that will improve
The Rock Island Greenway will continue to enhance
Greenway, named after the now obsolete rail line. the quality of life for our entire community.
quality of life, generate new municipal revenue thanks
The Rock Island Greenway (Greenway) will convert
As a direct result of the Rock Island Greenway walking to increased investment around the Greenway, and
the abandoned railroad right of way to a shared-use
and biking trail, a new student housing development promote infill development in the core of the city
path and linear park running 6 miles through the city,
that will ultimately yield more interest in active
connecting residential areas, Ruston’s downtown transportation and reduce the need for driving.
commercial core, Louisiana Tech University, and Some of the benefits to the community Investment in the Greenway also offers a chance
wooded natural settings. The trail will connect include the following: to introduce a new population to the benefits of
Ruston from the northern city limit to the southern ● Connects the city across traveling by bike and to provide an example worthy
city limit. To assist with the costs, Ruston applied neighborhoods, enhancing mobility for of emulation in similar places across the region and
for and received multiple grants including two $1 people of all ages, races and economic the country. It is this administration's belief that by
million grants each from Blue Cross and Blue Shield backgrounds. establishing fun, accessible, healthy, and economical
and Lincoln Health Foundation to assist in expanding ● Improves health outcomes by encouraging ways to travel around town, the city can utilize
the trail and to build connector sidewalks.
physical activity. resources to address other community challenges.
Ruston recognizes the importance of providing a ● Facilitates access to jobs, schools, and The citizens of Ruston have been very involved and
network of open spaces with passive and active other needs and amenities, particularly for extremely supportive of the entire Moving Ruston
recreation opportunities. The open space network those members of the population who cannot Forward initiative from the beginning. The MRF
will be serviced by an interconnected network or choose not to drive. projects and increased connectivity will improve the
of sidewalks, trails and paths for pedestrians and ● Increases bicycling for recreation and quality of life for all of our residents and encourage
bicyclists alike, providing desired amenities and transportation in the city of Ruston by providing guests to visit Ruston. It shows those looking at our
facilities for residents and visitors to Ruston. This city that we are progressive and willing to take care
6-mile trail will be completed in four (4) phases and will a safe, attractive place to ride via a protected of our needs locally. It also demonstrates that our
dramatically improve community health by establishing multi-use path and linear park that will eventually citizens care deeply for our city and want to ensure
unprecedented opportunities for physical activity serve as the spine of a robust active transportation that Ruston is well prepared to handle continued
and active transportation. Construction was recently network.
growth and to cultivate the quality of life for future
completed on phase 1, or one mile, of the first shared-
generations. We invite all to visit Ruston and learn
use path in the region, which will be the centerpiece is coming to Ruston. The Developer had two primary why Excellence is Made Here.
of Ruston's new bicycle/pedestrian network. criteria that had to be met in order to consider building
This shared-use path will establish direct connectivity in a community: 1) the development must be in close





Kristi Lumpkin

Economic Development Administrator
City of Ruston

P.O. Box 2069

Ruston, LA 71273
Office : 318-251-8643

Cell : 318-278-9569

[email protected]
www.ruston.org









FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 55

NAVIGATING THE RAILROAD REGULATORY WORLD CAN BE CRUCIAL

TO THE SUCCESS OF AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT



I served as the Chairman independent agency with exclusive jurisdiction over Economic Studies Institute of 2014 data stated that
of the United States Surface railroad economic matters. Generally, a project de- freight railroads created nearly $274 billion of eco-
Transportation Board (STB) veloper thinking of becoming involved in the freight nomic activity, including $33 billion in tax revenue,
from 2009-17, having rail industry must understand that the STB holds sway and generated almost 1.5 million jobs in the U.S.
been nominated to two and in many cases its approval will be required. Also, the freight railroads reinvested $26 billion into
terms by President Obama Therefore, the proper type of approval from the STB their infrastructures and hauled more than one-third
and confirmed both times to operate a railroad is important and can be con- of all U.S. exports, about 329 million tons. In addi-
by the Senate. In this role, fusing in certain situations. tion, they moved 171 million tons of imports and
I was the administrator of 11 million tons of international transit freight. These
DANIEL ELLIOTT the agency and the lead Railroad transportation is a huge economic financial statistics demonstrate the importance of
policy maker. It was an honor to serve my country in driver in the United States. the freight rail industry to the economy of the United
such a capacity. I left the agency in 2017 and joined As Chairman, I understood how important the rail States.
Conner & Winters as a Partner where I work on rail industry is to the economic development of the Unit-
regulatory matters. However, this article is my own ed States. Not known to all, the U.S. freight rail infra- Not surprisingly, some economic development projects
opinion and not that of my law firm. structure is privately owned by hundreds of railroad are highly dependent on having freight rail service
corporations, but mostly by four large railroads. available to them. Direct access to the rail network
The STB, a federal agency, is the economic regula- can provide a less expensive shipping method to
tor of the freight railroads in the United States. The There are approximately 140,000 miles of rail track and from an industrial site, especially for hauls over
agency handles rail mergers, acquisitions, trackage in the U.S. These lines facilitate service across the 500 miles and bulk commodities. In addition, hav-
rights agreements, line abandonments, and oth- nation to a wide variety of industries and their buy- ing access to two railroads would provide an industry
er rail industry transactions. It is also a completely ers. A recent study by Towson University’s Regional with direct competition between them, thereby usu


58 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

ally resulting in better rates and service. An entire because it is not subject to the jurisdiction of the STB occur when the line is at risk of being abandoned.
project can sink or swim depending on access to at that point. A careful review of STB and business There are other situations due to certain laws enact-
rail service. As a result, it is important to understand records related to the line is advisable at the earliest ed in the 1970s where a special court must approve
the STB regulatory landscape required to enter the stages of a proposed development project to estab- these types of rail transactions. Once again, it is im-
freight rail world before proceeding with a project lish whether the line has been abandoned. portant to inspect the records related to the line to
involving rail service. determine if any of these exemptions or special laws
If a line is not abandoned and is still subject to the are applicable.
It is extremely important to understand the jurisdiction of the STB, a developer would need ap-
complex STB regulatory requirements be- proval to purchase the line from the existing owner. If Moreover, some rail lines have been turned into trails
fore beginning a project involving rail service. the developer already owns a line, it might still need in accordance with federal law. These rail trails are
The STB has numerous prerequisites that a developer approval to operate the line or have a contracting technically railbanked and can be reactivated if there
must comply with before beginning to operate or pur- railroad operate it. Once again, a careful review of is a need for common carrier rail service. However, if
chase a rail line for a project. Without proper authority records is called for to determine a line’s status. the line was abandoned and then made into a trail,
from the STB, a developer risks having the rail portion of a developer has no regulatory right to reactivate ser-
a development project dismantled. Also, it is important to determine what type of rail vice and must then rely on the market to purchase
First, with respect to these STB prerequisites, a devel- trackage is involved in a project. The line at issue the line.
oper should know the status of a rail line involved in may be considered an active rail line, an exempt
a project, which can make a difference in how one type of track (like switching or siding track), or pri- As noted, rail service can be the key to a successful
should file at the STB. A rail line can be an active vate track. Transactions involving private and exempt economic development project. Having the ability
piece of railroad subject to the jurisdiction of the STB track do not require approval from the STB; how- to connect to such a powerful transportation source
or an abandoned line no longer subject to regula- ever, as discussed above, operating an active rail greatly increases the value of any development site,
tion. If one wants to reactivate a rail line that has been line does require different types of STB approval, to and from which products will be moved around
dormant to serve shippers, abandoned or not, one depending on the situation. the country or world. However, it is important to un-
would have to get approval from the Board. If a line derstand the complex regulatory requirements at the
is abandoned, the developer would need approval In addition, the STB can exempt lines from regula- STB when buying or operating a rail line. By seeking
to provide service on a line or to construct the line if tion in certain circumstances, like where a state entity appropriate advice before entering into a transaction
the track has been removed. A developer would not buys a line from a railroad to maintain rail service in of such great importance, a community or develop-
need approval to buy the line if it was abandoned, the area or where a railroad buys a line and is ex- er can avoid many of the pitfalls of project develop-
empted from regulation. Usually, these types of sales ment in the regulated rail industry.






















































FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 59

GOVERNOR
LARRY HOGAN







STATE OF




MARYLAND










As one of the original 13 colonies, Maryland has lead in state spending and return the state to sound since his role as governor, and per-pupil funding has
always played a pivotal role in American history. fiscal ground. He has cut tolls at every single toll fa- increased in every jurisdiction across the state.
Home to the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland is known cility across the state for the first time in more than When it comes to cybersecurity, bio-health and life
for its blue crabs and the city of Baltimore, a major 50 years, reduced or eliminated hundreds of fees, sciences, and aerospace innovation, Maryland is a
historic trading port, baseball power and birthplace halted or streamlined more than 800 regulations, leader among the states and around the world.
of the national anthem. Francis Scott Key wrote “The repealed the notorious rain tax mandate, and pro-
Star-Spangled Banner” as he watched the American vided tax relief for small businesses, middle class Maryland is home to the NSA and the National Cy-
flag wave above Fort McHenry on the harbor during families, and retirees. In total, Governor Hogan has bersecurity Center of Excellence at NIST; world-re-
the War of 1812. provided more than $1.2 billion in tax, toll, and fee nowned medical and educational institutions,
relief for hardworking Marylanders. including the National Institutes of Health, Johns
Lawrence J. Hogan Jr. is the Governor of Maryland Hopkins University, and the University of Maryland;
he was inaugurated as the 62nd governor of the Governor Hogan believes that all children deserve and NASA’s Goddard Spaceflight Center and
State of Maryland on January 21, 2015. He is the a world-class education. Maryland has a strong ed- NOAA—and many more.
second Republican governor to be elected in Mary- ucation system and has been a top priority for the
land in nearly 50 years, and the first governor from Hogan administration. The governor has provided
Anne Arundel County to be elected in over 100 years. record funding for K-12 public education each year,
Upon taking office, Governor Hogan took action to totaling a record investment of more than $25 billion

60 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 61

Harford County, Maryland




Here We Grow






























Harford County, Maryland is a premier American mostly-civilian employees, resulting in a $6.5 billion connect entrepreneurs and growing companies with
defense community on the Interstate 95 corridor with national economic impact in 2017. An epicenter of the cutting-edge developments at Aberdeen Proving
easy access to one-third of the U.S. population, and 90+ research, development, test, and evaluation Ground. DefTech is a collaboration between the
home to Aberdeen Proving Ground, a $6 billion Army organizations, APG hosts six Centers of Excellence, Maryland Department of Commerce, Harford and
installation with the nation’s highest concentration of an autonomous vehicle proving ground, and one of Cecil counties, and APG.
Ph.D.’s. Harford County has the talent, location and five national cyber test ranges among the U.S. federal New in 2018, the National Center for Manufacturing
resources to help your business grow. laboratories. Pioneering technologies include 3-D printing Sciences (NCMS) has chosen Harford County as the
and prototyping, which provide opportunities for the
Talent private sector to bring commercialization concepts to nation’s epicenter of research and development for
new manufacturing materials and processes to meet
Harford County’s regional workforce of 1.5 million is market faster than ever before.
the Army’s demand for advanced weapons systems.
fueled by award-winning public schools and access to
To facilitate the commercialization of technology, the This unprecedented initiative will bring major defense
major research institutions including Johns Hopkins
Maryland Defense Technology Commercialization contractors and premier academic institutions to the
University and University of Maryland, College Park.
Center (DefTech) is now open in Harford County to region, while offering opportunities for private businesses
A leader in technical training, Harford Community
and a hands-on education/training center. The center
College is a designated cybersecurity Center of
located minutes from I-95, is being developed in
Academic Excellence, offering more than 80 other
collaboration with APG’s Army Research Laboratory
degrees and certificates, plus on-campus access to
and Harford County government, and will be known
four-year degrees from Towson University. Harford
as AMMP, or Advanced Manufacturing, Materials
County government assists by providing matching
& Processes.
funds to businesses to accelerate technical training
that expands or improves their production capabilities. Location, Location, Location
The result is a highly skilled workforce numbering Harford County is part of Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ)
137,000 in Harford County alone, 93% of whom are #74, offering international companies economic
high school graduates and 34.5% with a bachelor’s incentives that allow imported and exported goods
degree. The U.S. Army installation Aberdeen Proving to be stored and processed without being subject
Ground is the county’s largest employer, fulfilling its to customs inspections and tariffs. Harford County
mission to research and develop innovative systems government also encourages development in its
for the nation’s defense by bringing together the two enterprise zones by providing tax credits to
nation’s top scientists and engineers. businesses that invest in these areas.
innovation Harford County is physically positioned for success,
Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) has a 100-year located along the bustling I-95 corridor with access to
history in Harford County and nearly 21,000 one-third of the U.S. population within an overnight



62 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

A Partnership for Success
Under the administration of County Executive
Barry Glassman, Harford County’s Office of
Community & Economic Development (OCED)
focuses on transportation, housing and jobs, and
assists businesses large and small with a vast array
of resources. Led by OCED Director Len Parrish,
Harford County provides personalized service and
expedites the process through an online permit
center, fast track permitting, tax incentives, site
selection assistance, incubator space, and easy access
to Open GIS data. Other business resources are also
centralized for ease of access with the following
partners co-located with OCED: the previously
mentioned DefTech center; the region’s workforce
training and development organization, Susquehanna
Workforce Network; the Maryland Procurement
Technical Assistance Center, and the Maryland
drive. A robust network of interstate highways, state and Smucker Natural Foods produces nationally Small Business Development Center. In Harford
roadways and rail lines support multimodal transportation recognized juices and jams. Food science and County, these partnerships allow government,
options. Global transportation hubs nearby include supply industries have also expanded in Harford industry, and academia to work together to help
Baltimore-Washington International Airport and the Port County with the recent addition of United Foods business grow. How can we help you?
of Baltimore. In fact, the Port of Baltimore is one of the International East Coast operations, the expansion
nation’s fastest and busiest ports, moving 38.8 million of Gordon Food Services, and TIC Gums.
tons of international and domestic cargo in 2016 and
including a 50-foot-deep berth and Neo-Panamax cranes.
Within Harford County, Harford Transit LINK, the county’s
public bus service, was named 2017 Maryland Transit
System of the Year for its modernization campaign to
become a leader in innovation and customer service.
Routes have been recently added, specifically to
connect employees with thriving employment centers.
Success Stories
Harford County is home to business success stories
in a wide range of fields. A majority of this growth
comes from existing companies expanding their
operations and workforce, especially in e-commerce/
distribution, manufacturing, and cybersecurity. For
example, XPO Logistics recently chose Harford
County for an Amazon fulfillment center, and snack
manufacturer Frito Lay has undergone two major FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT
expansions in the past few years adding two new
Cheetos lines and employing 500 workers. Growth for Steve Overbay Len Parrish
the global manufacturer Dunlop Protective Footwear
was supported by a $100,000 grant through the Deputy Director – Harford County Director - Harford County Office
Maryland Commerce Partnership for Workforce Office of Community & Economic of Community & Economic
Quality program, which provides employee training
in software development and integration. Development Development
Other international companies located in Harford
2021D Pulaski Highway 2021D Pulaski Highway
County produce a wide range of products and
Havre de Grace, MD 21078 Havre de Grace, MD 21078
services: from hovercraft to bio and chemical
defense technologies; to specialty sauces, soups
410-638-3059 410-638-3059
and custom dry blends; to crypto-technology
solutions for drivers’ licenses. Sephora distributes [email protected] [email protected]
international brands of cosmetics and fragrances, www.harfordcountymd.gov www.harfordcountymd.gov
Clorox manufactures household cleaning products,




FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 63

GOVERNOR
MIKE PARSON








STATE OF



MISSOURI












Missouri is a West North Central state bordered by cattle, corn, hogs, and soybeans. Cattle raising Missouri hosts more than a dozen development
Iowa to the north, Illinois to the east, Arkansas to the dominates the western part of the state and man- centers for small businesses. Each is dedicated to
south, and Kansas to the west. The state is located ufacturing is the biggest activity in the east. These supporting the development and retention of small
near the geographic center of the United States at products are shipped all over the country on the Mis- business, helping entrepreneurs do everything from
the junction of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, the sissippi and Missouri rivers. crafting business plans to navigating the state’s tax
two longest rivers in the country. code.
Most of the state’s workers are employed in service
Missouri is a major transportation crossroads. The industries, including government, health care, and The Missouri department of economic development
state is a center of water, land, and air transportation. retail trade. Missouri’s factories produce a large works to create an environment that encourages
Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city, and St. Louis, the number of airplanes and cars. economic growth by supporting Missouri’s business
state’s second largest city, are leading air travel, train, and diverse industries, strengthening our commu-
and trucking companies. Missouri is confident that when it comes to our over- nities, developing a talented and skilled workforce,
all business climate, we rank among the best states and maintaining a high quality of life.
Missouri is one of the country’s chief agricultural in the U.S, we know that when it comes down to it,
states and the most important manufacturing state Missouri can provide the perfect location for your
in the Midwest. The state is a chief producer of beef, company’s unique needs and goals.

64 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Workforce Training Is Job #1 in the


Joplin, Missouri region





BY ROB O’BRIAN





Thirty-four years ago, when I first began my career in was in a heavily auto industry dependent city in an new facility was built. The opportunity to acquire and
economic development, the focus was on industrial auto industry dependent state. Unemployment was use the classroom and training infrastructure already
development and, more specifically, on attraction of in double-digits and was a high as twenty percent. put into the building became a priority for the four
companies. To be in the game seemingly required There were plenty of people who needed jobs and organizations as a means to address needs in ad-
only a few key attributes: a good-sized tract of land the mission was focused on getting jobs to that area. vanced manufacturing and IT.
that could be utility served; a major state highway Today, I am in a metro area that has been success-
or, even better, an Interstate; reliable power and an ful, still, in manufacturing but also in medical and The Chamber became the lead organization in
available, inexpensive labor force. Of course the transportation services. The unemployment rate is working with the City to access disaster recovery
community that wanted to attract new industry had around 3%, lower that the nation and Missouri and funds for acquisition and updating of the building.
some organization that was in charge of “industrial yet still higher than other places around U.S. The The funds were also used for equipping the facility.
development”. Times have changed. mission now is finding people to fill those jobs. Our The Workforce Innovation Board moved its adminis-
population is growing, but not fast enough to fill the trative offices to the facility and the Chamber retained
Economic development is, and should be, more jobs available. Part of the solution is to bring high- use of the rest of the building. Going into its sec-
broadly defined and yet also more nuanced to what er skill level training for the existing and developing ond year of operation, the ATTC is a multi-purpose
a community needs, wants and can sustain. Entre- workforce in our area for the past several years. training and business support facility the addresses
preneurship, small business development, business workforce needs in a variety of ways.
attraction, tourism, health care, information tech- A key step forward in aligning training in our area
nology; the list of where and how communities and was creation of the Advanced Training and Tech- Crowder utilizes 30,000 sq. ft. to provide training in
regions can build their economic base is extensive. nology Center in the heart of Joplin. This facility is advanced manufacturing skills, including industrial
At the same time, as the global and national econo- a partnership among the Joplin Area Chamber of maintenance and robotics, advanced welding, infor-
mies continue to evolve, local economies see the im- Commerce Foundation, Crowder College, Work- mation and network technology and computer-aid-
pact and communities need to be able to respond. force Innovation Board and the City of Joplin. The ed drafting. This training is certification oriented al-
One major area that cuts across all sectors is having 51,000 sq. ft. operation is in a former warehouse lowing students, whether already working or entering
an available and skilled workforce. that, after the 2011 tornado, became the home of the workforce, to upgrade their skills. For employers,
At the time I began in economic development I the high school technical training programs while a it provides a source of high-quality, focused training


66 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

to upgrade existing employees skills and find new, Initial discussions on the concept among the hospi- in their fourth year with no application and no MCAT
qualified workers. tals and Missouri Southern State University, began as testing; effectively creating a seven year program.
early as 2008. It was evident that state budgets were Regional hospitals are expanding and creating ro-
The Workforce Innovation Board provide pre-ap- not going to allow creation of a new public universi- tation and residency opportunities for the students,
prenticeship training to help people entering or ty-based medical school, so discussion turned to pri- emphasizing the path the students can take to build
re-entering the workforce, in gaining basic skills. vate medical schools. While set-aside in 2011 due careers in this area.
This pre-apprenticeship training focuses on the soft to the tornado, the conversation resumed in 2012
skills related to attendance, communication and with the Chamber creating the Alliance to formalize MSSU likewise is already benefitting with a jump in
teamwork. The training is focused on lower-income the partnerships and create a funding conduit. student enrollment in its pre-med program. An un-
people and is open to any adult, from high school anticipated result of the partnership with KCU has
age on. Kansas City University of Medicine and Bioscience been students who are coming to MSSU for its oth-
became a key target for the community’s efforts. er medical career programs like respiratory therapy
The Chamber offers public space for company and KCU had a mission to serve rural and family medi- and nursing. They indicate the relationship with KCU
community training needs. The Chamber has also cine and was already among the top medical schools has enhanced MSSU’s already strong reputation in
developed a culinary kitchen for entrepreneurs. The in the US in terms of doctors graduating and, it was those areas and also assures them there is a career
Chamber also has space for small firms to start up, expanding. KCU responded to the community and track to become a doctor in the future if they so
particularly those that can utilize Crowder students in said it would come to Joplin, if the community could choose.
the IT and CAD fields. address the lion’s share of the facility needs. The
two medical systems immediately participated, done Our experience so far indicates that partnerships fo-
The ATTC would not have been possible without providing the building it had been using for a tem- cused on serving the needs of our community and
the strong partnerships already in place among the porary hospital post-tornado and the other a cash regional businesses create success for those compa-
Chamber, City, Crowder and WIB. When the op- gift. The community provided additional support, nies and our people. We continue to place an em-
portunity arose to create a state-of-the-industry train- eventually raising more than $30-million regionally phasis on workforce training , because it is our belief
ing facility for manufacturing as well as support other for the school. that in an every changing economy business and or-
training needs, the organizations were ready to act. ganizations need people who are trained for today
A partnership that has brought success to our area KCU-Joplin opened in July, 2017 with an initial and that have the opportunities to train for tomorrow.
for the medical sector was creation of the Regional class of 164 and opened 2018 with another 164
Medical School Alliance. With two major medi- students; the first steps on its promise to bring a Rob O’Brian served as President of the Joplin
cal systems and numerous smaller hospitals in the 600-student medical school when at a full four Area Chamber of Commerce for twenty-three
region, one of the long held concerns was finding years. KCU-Joplin is the first new medical school in years. Rob founded O’Brian and Associates in
enough doctors to fill the needs. In particular, there Missouri in nearly fifty years. early 2018 to advise and assist communities on
was a feeling that a medical school in the region economic and workforce development”.
would not only train doctors, but also attract regional KCU worked with MSSU to help it realign its pre-
talent that wanted to stay here and serve the area med curricula. In this program, up to twenty-five top Rob O’Brian, CEcD
population. performing MSSU pre-med students can go to KCU O’Brian & Associates.



FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 67

GOVERNOR

ANDREW M. CUOMO





STATE OF




NEW YORK














The State of New York is governed by Andrew M. bilitating roads and bridges and rebuilding airports lowest manufacturers tax rate since 1917. While
Cuomo, New York is located at the southern tip of for the 21st century, New York is moving forward Washington leaves our middle class behind, New
the state. New York’s metropolitan area, one of the with a strong and bold projects across the state of York will continue to fight for our hardworking fam-
most populous urban agglomerations in the world. New York: A new Moynihan Train Hall; a 1.2 mil- ilies. Cuomo believes that New York must take dra-
lion square foot expansion of the Javits Convention matic action to preserve our state’s economy. He is
Governor Cuomo has a proven track record in en- Center; a new Kosciuszko Bridge, the first major putting forward a multi-part strategy for New York.
ergizing the state economy, New York State will ex- new bridge in the last 50 years; new train stations in
pand its already-successful Downtown Revitalization Niagara Falls, Rochester and Schenectady; a $6.6 Governor Cuomo has directed New York’s econ-
Initiative with an additional $100 million, providing billion transformation of the Long Island Railroad; omy. Since taking office, New York’s economy has
up to $10 million for awards in each region. These and a MTA Capital Plan to bring New York City’s created more than 1 million private sector jobs, and
investments will ensure that communities have the subways into the 21st century. the State’s unemployment rate has dropped from
tools they need to boost their local economies and 8.3 percent to 4.7 percent. In the midst of economic
transform downtown neighborhoods. Governor Cuomo has fought to reduce taxes for growth, Governor Cuomo recognizes the urgen-
New Yorkers from day one. As of today, all New cy of preparing New Yorkers for the good-paying
Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York is Yorkers pay a lower state tax rate than when Gov- jobs. On average, there will be nearly 362,000
moving forward with a $100 billion infrastructure ernor Cuomo took office, and the Governor has jobs opening over the next ten years, and Governor
program, the most aggressive and ambitious build- secured the lowest middle-class tax rate since 1947, Cuomo is dedicated to ensuring that New Yorkers
ing program in the country. From investing in reha- the lowest corporate tax rate since 1968 and the are prepared to fill them.

68 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Offers


comfortable ,NY
scenic country


living



























Business incentives offered to residents and business owners in
Allegany County NY, including:


Skilled workforce - three colleges

Market Access- interstate & northeast/Canada

Lifestyle - rural education





























NY






For More Information, Please Contact:
Craig R. Clark, PE, Ph.D. | Executive Director Allegany County IDA | Ph 607-968-0214
[email protected] | www.alleganyco.com FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 69

GOVERNOR

ROY COOPER






STATE OF




NORTH CAROLINA










North Carolina is a South Atlantic state bordered by investing more the 14 bilion dollars and creating Plain is low, flat to gently sloping land that extends
Virginia to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, over 50,000 jobs. These companies found North along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
South Carolina and Georgia to the south, and Ten- Carolina to be the land of low cost and high op- We have 300 miles of white sandy beaches. The
nessee to the west. The state’s landscape includes portunity. Piedmont, characterized by hilly, rolling land, bor-
swamps, rich farmland, and hills. Over half of the ders the Coastal Plain. The Piedmont extends from
state is forested. North Carolina, a well trained state wide community Virginia to Alabama. The Appalachian Mountains,
that is committed to helping international businesses the largest range in the eastern United States, stretch
North Carolina has a very diverse economy be- succeed. from Canada to northern Alabama
cause of its great availability of hydroelectric pow-
er, its pleasant climate, and its wide variety of soils. North Carolina is recognized for its natural resources The N.C. Department of Transportation has set
The state ranks third among the South Atlantic states with more than 300 miles of Atlantic coastline and urgency to spend down the cash balance by in-
in population, but leads the region in industry and the highest mountain peaks east of the Rockies. Our creasing transportation construction across North
agriculture. North Carolina leads the nation in the communities are healthy, desirable and thriving. Carolina. The cash balance is essentially NCDOT’s
production of tobacco, textiles, and furniture. Char- North Carolina consistently ranks at the leading “checkbook” for delivering transportation projects.
lotte, the state’s largest city, is a major textile and places to live and do business. Cash spending on transportation projects is a lead-
trade center. ing indicator to economic growth.
There are three distinct landforms of the Southeast
Over the last 10 years more then 560 international and of North Carolina, the Coastal Plain, the Pied-
companies have put down roots in North Carolina mont and the Appalachian Mountains. The Coastal

70 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

GOVERNOR
HENRY MCMASTER






STATE OF




SOUTH CAROLINA











South Carolina is a Southeastern state in the United one of the most productive ports averaging 40 plus service nearly 2,300 miles. Palmetto Railways oper-
States and is known as the Palmetto State. Residents moves per hour/per crane. Each year, more than 20 ates three common carrier railroads. These railroads
and tourists enjoy the Appalachian Mountains, the different shipping lines use South Carolina’s port. include, the port Utilities Commission of Charleston
many rivers and lakes throughout the state and the These shipping lines service 150 countries. Our (PUCC), the Port Terminal Railroad (PTR) and the
beautiful subtropical beaches along the Atlantic deep water and high bridges allow the port to serve East Cooper and Berkeley Railroad (ECBR).
coastline. Tourism generates $19 billion per year ships of more than 8,000 TEU’s. In 2016, the Port of
for the state. South Carolina’s geographic location Charleston handled 1.79 million TEU’s. With such South Carolina’s energy costs are about 12% less
is just a two day drive for 208 million Americans. high figures, it makes an ideal port for shipping. than the national average. It has a variety of energy
Columbia is the capital city and Henry McMaster is sources including hydroelectric, nuclear, coal, natu-
the governor of this beautiful state. With three major airports located in Columbia, Myr- ral gas and other renewable resources. due to in-
tle Beach, and Charleston. Many travelers have ac- vestments in infrastructure, South Carolina maintains
South Carolina’s infrastructure makes doing busi- cess to countless US and international destinations. stable electricity costs. They have been using emis-
ness easy for several reasons. With five interstate There are several major airlines available for a vari- sions-free nuclear power since the early 1970’s. It
highways that criss-cross the state and an excellent ety of choices depending on the desired destination. ranks as the third largest generator of nuclear power
East-West and North-South access to the rest of the energy in the United States. This impressive nuclear
United States. The Port of Charleston has been the Twenty seven million tons of freight moved through powersystem generates more than 50 million net
center of global commerce and trade for three cen- South Carolina’s extensive railway systems. Nor- megawatt-hours of energy.
turies. It is one of the busiest container ports along fold Southern and CSX Transportation are Class I
the Southeast and Gulf Shores. It is recognized as railroad companies. Seven independent rail lines

72 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Put Success in

Your Corner






Strategically located in the northeast
corner of South Carolina, the NESA
Region puts your business in the
ideal position to succeed. With
competitively priced land and building
options, advantageous infrastructure,
unrivaled proximity to both inland and
deep-water ports, and a cost-effective
workforce, your business has endless
possibility on its side.









































Explore the resources that await in the gem of the Southeast — visit NESAsc.org or call 843-661-4669.



Some of the companies that proudly call the NESA Region home

PRODuCT ON THE




SHELF










To sell something, you have to have something to sell. That is
the message that the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA)
has been expounding for more than a decade. Located in the
northeastern corner of South Carolina, encompassing the
Florence and Myrtle Beach MSAs, NESA has been a staunch
supporter of product development including industrial parks,
sites, and spec buildings. With an improving economy and
nearly half of all economic development projects requesting
an existing building, having spec or “shell” industrial buildings The Georgetown County Spec building has begun construction with the walls going up as recently
in inventory is more important than ever. as July 2018. This 50,000 sq. ft. is located in the Georgetown County business Center, which
Companies demand speed to market. In general, companies is rail accessible and just off of Highway 521 in Andrews, S.C.
that locate manufacturing operations in a spec building can
save six months or more of design, zoning, permitting, and undergo. Pertinent engineering reports would include an environmental site assessment, archeological report,
construction lead times. Spec buildings are not inexpensive geotechnical exploration, endangered species assessment, and wetlands delineation with a jurisdictional
investments which is why communities need to perform determination letter from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Having these reports completed not only
adequate due diligence on sites that are being considered. mitigates the risk of the community with regard to its investment, but also lends credibility and speed to
Although there are numerous issues to consider, market for an end user. In addition to the engineering reports, the community should assure that the site
siting a spec building follows a similar due diligence is appropriately zoned for industrial development and has adequate water, wastewater, natural gas, and
process that a manufacturing client would expect to electrical infrastructure in place to accommodate a major manufacturing operation.




































The Marion County Spec building broke ground in August 2018. The 100,000 sq. ft. building is being built in the Marion County Industrial
Park located off of Highway 501 in Marion, S.C. and just 18 miles from Inland Port Dillon.




74 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

The Dillon County Spec building is off the ground and nearing completion. The Pee Dee Spec building is awaiting its first tenant. The 100,000 sq.
This 109,200 sq. ft. building is located just off I-95 at Exit 190 and located ft. building is located in the Pee Dee Commerce Park just off I-95 at Exit
4.5 miles from Inland Port Dillon. 170 and is 25 miles from Inland Port Dillon.


Beyond the actual costs of designing, engineering feet and most have at least 25’ clear heights. As park that had recently completed the South Carolina
and constructing a spec building, communities site selection consultant Mark Sweeney touted Department of Commerce’s industrial park certification
should also be prepared to spend marketing dollars on several occasions, “prepared communities win” program. Because of its location near I-95 and the
and that is exactly the philosophy that NESA has level of due diligence that had been completed on
subscribed and deployed in the region. The NESA the industrial park, the building immediately gained
region currently has available speculative buildings, traction and several companies that would not have
industrial parks, and sites that have completed the otherwise considered Dillon County began visiting
aforementioned engineering reports and due diligence the area. One of the companies to visit the building
and are actively being marketed for industrial users. was Wyman Gordon, an aerospace components
While spec buildings have resulted in several wins manufacturing company. After several visits to Dillon,
for the region over the last several years, one major meetings with regional, local, and state officials,
success story happened in Dillon, South Carolina. workforce training partner meetings, incentives
Dillon County, in conjunction with Marlboro Electric negotiations, meetings with utility companies,
The Williamsburg County Spec building broke Cooperative, constructed a 50,000 SF speculative and other meetings, Wyman Gordon acquired the
ground in July and construction has begun building near I-95 in a newly developed industrial spec building and additional adjacent acreage and
on the 52,000 sq. ft. building located in the announced a $115 million capital investment and
Williamsburg Cooperative Commerce Center 400 well-paying jobs in Dillon County.
South on Highway 52.
Prepared communities win and NESA is prepared.
Contact our business team today to Put Success in
pursuing industrial clients. This effort should Your Corner.
include advertising, online marketing campaigns,
site selector outreach, lead generation campaigns
and, most importantly, follow up with prospective
end users. Winning with a spec building can be a John Sweeney
lengthy process and one that does entail costs;
N o r t h e as t e r n S t r a t e g i c A l l i a n c e
however, the benefits and exposure a community
receives by having a spec building along with the
activity it generates far outweighs those costs. In 121 South Evander Drive, Florence,
fact, it is not uncommon for companies to visit a spec S.C. 29505
building, decide that the building does not meet their
needs for whatever reason, decide that they really Office: 843-661-1665
like the community and its assets and then decide
to build a facility in that community. Fax: 843-661-1293
For these reasons, almost all of the NESA counties
are currently in some phase of spec building
development ranging from design, to financing,
to actual construction, to marketing completed
buildings. The most common sizes currently being
developed range from 50,000 to 100,000 square



FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 75

GOVERNOR
BILL HASLAM








STATE OF




TENNESSEE










Tennessee is an East South Central state bordered In the past, Tennessee’s economy was largely ag- In Tennessee, we make world-class cars, guns and
by Kentucky to the north, North Carolina to the east, ricultural-based. Today, however, manufacturing is guitars. We make batteries, refrigerators, savory
Mississippi and Alabama to the south, and Missouri more important to the state’s economy. The Tennes- snacks and legendary whiskey. While other states
and Arkansas to the west. see Valley Authority headquartered in Knoxville, built gave up on their manufacturing workforce a long
hydroelectric and flood-control dams in the state. time ago, we never stopped making products used
The state, which lies between the Mississippi River The waterpower harnessed by the Tennessee Valley all over the world.
on the west and the Appalachian Mountains on the Authority and provided cheap electricity, which at-
east, touches a total of eight other states. Almost two- tracted many new businesses to the area. In Ternnesse we have created an environment un-
fifths of Tennessee’s population lives in the state’s bound by state borders. No other state is more com-
countryside. Today the state is now more industrial than agricul- petitive in recruiting foreign direct investment or in the
tural. Most of the state’s residents work in offices, exportation of products globally.
Tennessee is made up of farmlands of hills and pla- stores, and factories. Service industries, like whole-
teaus. The region has good transportation to and sale and retail trade, play a very important role in its We have established resources that make Tennesse
from other areas and has developed a more varied economy. Scientists conduct nuclear research at the accessible to any international market.
economy. Nashville, the state’s capital, is an import- Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee.
ant city in Middle Tennessee.


76 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Utah – Crossroads of the World





Touted as the crossroads of the west, Utah is poised taining transportation Infrastructure. Frontrunner is a Adobe, Microsoft, eBay and many other innovative
to play an even larger role in the global economy. In commuter rail service that runs 80 miles along the companies. The low cost of doing business and a
addition to the state’s quality workforce and diverse Wasatch Front population corridor. And TRAX is a high-quality workforce continues to attract global
economy, its investment in infrastructure is setting the light rail system that reaches throughout the Salt Lake companies to the area. With so many tech compa-
groundwork for a new accolade: Utah – crossroads Valley carrying thousands of passengers daily. nies coming to Utah, it has been ranked second in
of the world. the nation in fastest-growing states for tech jobs at an
Thriving Industries increase of 5.75 percent.
Commitment to infrastructure
Reports have listed Utah’s economy as the most di- Utah is also one of the top states in the nation for
As the only new major airport hub built in the United verse in America. Some of the industries recognized aerospace and defense employment and has high
States in the 21st century, the Salt Lake City interna- for promoting this diversity and generating high-pay- employee concentrations of aerospace engineers,
tional airport is undergoing a $3.6 billion redevel- ing jobs in the state are software and IT, aerospace materials scientists, machine operators and many other
opment project. Servicing more than 24 million vis- and defense and outdoor recreation. aerospace related occupations. This is why companies
itors each year, the airport is currently Delta Airlines’ In recent years, Utah’s burgeoning tech sector has like Boeing, Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems,
fourth largest hub in the United States and traffic is gained international attention. Clustered just south of L-3 Communications and others chose to operate
continuing to grow. The new airport will offer more in- Salt Lake City, the “Silicon Slopes” tech sector houses here. Utah is also home to Hill Air Force Base, the
ternational and direct flights in and out of Salt Lake. Ad-
ditionally, the increased access to the state will open
new business opportunities in new markets overseas
and better position Utah as an international business
destination.
Northeast of the airport is another monumental
project. Utilizing the state’s rail lines and major
interstates, a new Global Trade Port will facilitate
the movement of international-bound products. This
inland port will offer services offered by traditional
coastal ports such as customs clearance and make
it easier than ever to move products and materials
in and out of the state. Anticipation of the project is
high as state officials say the port will be the “largest
economic engine” ever assembled.
Commuters in Utah also benefit from the state’s will-
ingness to invest in infrastructure. The Legislature has
poured billions of dollars into expanding and main-


78 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Air Force’s second largest base by population and
geographical size.

In addition to making Utah a great place to live, the
state’s impressive natural landscapes attract and cul-
tivate the best in the outdoor industry. Known as the
place to be for outdoor products, over 200 leading
outdoor products companies reside here.

Finally, the most fundamental reason for Utah’s eco-
nomic success is the business-friendly climate encour-
aged by state and local government leaders. Utah has
among the lowest tax rates in the country and strives
to keep business regulations to a minimum. The low Message from
cost of doing business in Utah is another reason for
success. With an average rate of 9 cents per kilowatt Kristen Cox
hour, Utah’s dynamic energy economy boasts one
of the most affordable and attractive energy rates in Executive Director of the Utah
the country. Governor’s Office of Management and Budget
FDI Efforts

Utah is committed to economic development and Utah is a beautiful state with more than its fair share than 27 percent in four years These operational im-
has dedicated agencies in place to help fulfill this of resources. Business is booming thanks to a focus provements have saved taxpayers millions of dollars
mission. The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic on reasonable and predictable business regulations, and produced better outcomes for customers.
Development focuses their efforts on providing rich a qualified workforce, low and stable tax rates, a
business resources for the creation, growth and re- AAA bond rating from all three rating agencies and The focus on quality improvement in state govern-
cruitment of companies to Utah. Another resource premier market access. As our state continues to ment is a proactive move to help Utah meet the
dedicated to promoting economic prosperity is World grow, we are focused on forward-looking policies growing demand for services in a fiscally responsi-
Trade Center Utah who leads business delegations that will help us maintain our unparalleled quality of ble way. We take the same proactive approach to
abroad, hosts foreign dignitaries and works to estab- life for decades to come. policy in Utah. Instead of resting on our laurels, we
lish meaningful connections with potential customers are focused on continually improving infrastructure,
and partners. In 2018, “Rich States, Poor States” ranked Utah managing the states’ water supply, investing in ed-
number one in the U.S for its economic outlook. ucation to prepare the workforce of tomorrow and
Choose Utah Even with exciting rankings like these, we know the leveraging land use to provide more employment
work is never done. This is a motto we apply to Utah and recreation opportunities close to housing that
CEO Magazine recently named Utah’s workforce government. We are constantly looking for ways we is affordable. These are just a few of the items that
the best in America. Utah is the youngest state in the can be even better stewards of public funds. are part of Governor Herbert’s Life Elevated 2020
country with a median age of 30 years. In addition, Initiative, a collaborative, statewide growth strategy.
Utah is the most bilingual state in America. Its residents Utah government agencies are committed to pro-
speak more than 130 languages, and many are viding top-notch services while maximizing existing Both the private and public sector are involved in
culturally fluent, having lived in countries all across resources. One of the key purposes of my office, discussions about the state’s economy, because col-
the globe. The Utah Governor’s Office of Management and laboration is a key ingredient in the secret sauce of
Budget, is to work with state agencies to help them Utah’s success. Companies are the heart of Utah’s
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in its report on achieve operational excellence. In 2012 we created economic engine, and our goal is to help business-
enterprising states, mentioned that the spirit of col- and began implementing the SUCCESS Framework, es of all sizes be successful. If you are looking for a
laboration was found in greater abundance in Utah a management approach based on the Theory of place to locate your business, Utah is ready to wel-
than in any other state. We welcome the opportunity Constraints. The SUCCESS Framework helped Utah come you with open arms.
to strengthen our connections and invite you to see state government improve performance by more
all that Utah has to offer.




FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 79

GOVERNOR

GREG ABBOTT







STATE OF




TEXAS










Texas is a West South Central state bordered by structure designed for businesses to succeed. Texas quarter, Texas is one of the leading economies in the
Oklahoma to the north, Louisiana to the East, and is committed to maintaining its position as the best United States this year.
Mexico to the south. It is the second most populous state for business, and recently passed legislation
state in the United States. The only state that has providing over $4 billion in tax relief for businesses. Texas’ 382 airports, including 26 commercial air-
more residents than Texas is California. Not to mention, Texas is home to one of the largest, ports, make up the second-largest state airport
most competitive deal-closing funds in the nation, system in the United States. The state’s two largest
Texas has two intermodal facilities, Fort Worth’s Al- the Texas Enterprise Fund. airports, Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW) and
liance Airport and San Antonio’s Port San Antonio, George Bush Intercontinental in Houston (IAH), are
integrate high-capacity industrial airports, Class I rail Powered by nearly 50 Fortune 500 companies, major domestic and international hubs
terminals and direct interstate highway access. Texas thousands of international and small businesses,
is also home to American Airlines and Southwest Air- and a diverse, skilled workforce of 13.5 million, the Texas prides itself on being a right-to-work state, and
lines, two of the largest airlines in the world. Texas economy is the 10th largest when compared will continue to make strategic investments to ensure
to the nations of the world. Texas is also the country’s it maintains our competitive advantage, allowing
Texas offers companies of all sizes and across all leading producer of oil, natural gas, and sulfur. businesses to prosper and grow.
industries one of the best business climates in the With solid economic growth last year including a
nation, with a fair, transparent tax and regulatory torrid 5.2 percent state GDP increase in the fourth

80 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

SE YMOUR TEX AS






C R e A T i N G O PP O R T U N i T i e S































Seymour Texas is your next hub for shipping/ Labor Force the hassle of traffic and heavy commuters. Interior
receiving, logistics, transportation, and warehouse Seymour offers a large blue collar work force that is intersections are accommodating and our FM 422
distribution in Northwest Texas. 5 major highways ready and willing to go to work for you. Low cost of provides a new recently widened road that connects
feed into and out of Seymour, allowing your product living allows your company to offer a competitive wage to US HWY 277 and the Seymour Industrial Park as
to connect quickly with your customers. $30 Million without breaking the bank. 25% of our graduating well as US HWY 82.
dollars of recent highway improvements by Texas high school seniors enter the workforce immediately Health, education, & Necessities
Department of Transportation shows that the State and we have a growing group of young professionals
as a whole sees the value in Seymour’s roadways. who are seeking out Seymour as a place to raise Seymour Texas is a vibrant community with a
Seymour’s 600 mile radius means you can get to 9 their family in a safe community. Surrounding state recognized hospital system and two school
other states and Mexico in a single transportation communities within a 35 mile radius are also able to campuses. Seymour Hospital family includes hospital,
day. Additionally, Seymour boasts a manageable provided additional labor force. Because Seymour Seymour Rural Health Clinic, Seymour Fitness Center,
Average Daily Traffic Count on even their busiest is relatively crime free, clean, and offers extensive Seymour Home Health, Cardiac Rehabilitation,
highway systems, which means you can move your healthcare and education options, our community Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Obstetrics, Urgent Care,
product quickly and safely. Seymour is ready for is a draw for families to live and work. Allergy Clinic, Seymour/Baylor Co. E.M.S., Randal
you to make us your new business location with Transport efficiently Wellness Center, Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy,
FREE land incentives in the Seymour Industrial Park, Surgery Department, and Seymour Pharmacy with
Our 5 major highways include US HWY 277 that
within the city limits and with frontage road options a recent addition of a visiting Ophthalmologist.
can directly connect you to I-10 and I-20 in Texas
along US HWY 277. Other visiting doctors cover Urology, Cardiology,
and I-35, I-40, and I-44 in Oklahoma. US HWY and Orthopedic Surgery. The on-site medical
Land incentives 183 connects South Dakota to Austin Texas and
professionals include Family Medicine, Women’s
The Seymour Industrial Park is governed by the US HWY 283 connects Texas to Kansas. These two
Health, OBGYN, Pediatrician, Emergency Medicine,
Seymour Community Development Corporation, a major roadways have junctions with interstates I-10,
and General Surgery. With all of these healthcare
local non-profit, and has incentive packages available I-20, I-35, I-40, I-70, I-80, and I-90. New Mexico
services available locally, your employees will be
with options ranging from free land, low-interest rate to Georgia, US HWY 82 has 11 interstate junctions
healthy and happy to be in Seymour.
loans, and below market value land leases for your across the southern United States. State HWY 114
new business. Other incentives can be entertained moves your product from the metroplex of Dallas/ Housing Market Accessibility
as well and are employee, capital investment, and Fort Worth into West Texas and New Mexico with Seymour has a wide range of housing options from
longevity based. The Seymour Industrial Park 2 major interstate junctions. cul-de-sac additions, close to downtown options,
is located along US Hwy 277 with frontage road In addition to these well maintained highways, and available land for new builds. Most single family
options, within the corporate limits of the City of Seymour’s average daily traffic counts of 6000 to housing ranges from $45K to $75K with much larger
Seymour. Enjoy city infrastructure as well as fire 9000 insures your trucks aren’t fighting for road housing options from $100K to $500K. Seymour
and police protection. space. Easily transport in all directions without has many contractors, remodelers, and service



82 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

companies that can help make your new house in
Seymour a home. The City of Seymour will also
entertain seeking out new apartment contractors
in conjunction with your new business. Seymour
also has a healthy renters market that allows for
easy community transition.
Seymour independent School
District
The Seymour ISD offers PreK through 12 education
with appropriately sized classrooms and new
technology. Recently the district has turfed the
football field and built a new Auditorium. The music
program in Seymour has experienced an explosion
of students and trail blazers as we see more youth
receive music scholarships to college than ever
before. Vocational CNA Classes offer students a
boost into the medical field of their choice and all
kids have secondary education options available to
propel their college careers. Seymour ISD launched
their new and improved welding program this year
and we look forward to creating a skilled labor force,
ready to work, with the most up to date knowledge
abundant playground equipment, dog stations, Hunting is also a large recreational pull within the
and technology. The Seymour ISD has chosen to
olympic-sized City Pool, and a rentable venue 900 square mile county. Game includes doves,
participate as a District of Innovation and will offer
location. Seymour Sound Garden offers a new kind ducks, geese, white-tailed deer, javelina, wild hogs,
more vocational classes in the near future.
of experience through outdoor musical equipment. and various other animals.
Quality of Life Located just across the street from the recognized Seymour in Your Future
Never leave town again to get what you need because Whiteside Museum of Natural History, showcasing
We are excited to become the location for your
Seymour offers a fantastic newly opened Untied local dinosaur discoveries happening every day in
next business! Our logistic opportunities will make
Supermarket as well as one of the largest Dollar our famous Texas Redbeds, the Sound Garden has
warehousing and transportation swift and easy.
General Stores in the state! Fresh produce, large two lateral xylophones, a set of 8ft high chimes, one
Seymour’s land incentive is only second to the prime
selection of healthy food choices, interesting and vertical xylophone, and hand drums. Patrons of the
prices offered locally by private owners. Our labor
new options, and prices that are affordable makes Whiteside Museum and community members alike
force is at the helm to begin working for you and our
for healthy and happy families and employees. enjoy this interesting downtown space. The Salt
housing market is open for Seymour to become the
Seymour also has their own butcher/meat services Fork River Estates Golf Complex offers a 9-hole
community your employees call home. The Seymour
where you can purchase grass feed beef or choose professionally designed course that is maintained by
Hospital family and Seymour Independent School
a wide selection of other services with Baycos the City of Seymour. On site also offers a meeting
District are ready to take care of your employees
Meat Processing. Local shopping available through hall, outdoor venue area, kitchen, tennis courts,
and their families through health and education.
boutiques, our fine jewelry store, and antique stores. and ample parking.
Our quality of life is at the brim with parks, outdoor
Seymour also has a wide array of services businesses The City Hall Cinema and Whiteside Center of
recreation, and community endeavors and as you
ranging from dry cleaning to mechanics and paint and the Performing Arts are housed inside Seymour
pour your business into us, we are dedicated to pour
body to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services and City Hall on the second floor in our beautifully
more into the community we call home. “See More”
local contractors for remodeling. restored 1924 auditorium. Here, the community
in your future with us in Seymour Texas.
With 16 places to eat, you can go out and enjoy your comes together to watch free movies the second
evening while someone else does all the work! The and fourth weekend of the month and see stage
Big Empty BBQ recently opened to rave reviews, performances that range from theater to musicians
serving up lunch specials, dinner dishes, and a fantastic and magicians to local talent shows. Located across
Sunday brunch on the patio and The Chuck Wagon the street from the Whiteside Museum of Natural Lauren Bush
Café brings down home cooking to another level, History, the cinema also provides educational
serving Pimento Cheese Burgers, Fat Taters, and an movies in conjunction with school tours. Economic Development Director
amazing classic Chicken Fried Steak. Others options Seymour Texas is located in Baylor County and has
include Tex-Mex, Deli Style, Cafes, specialty coffees, 2 lakes within a 15 minute driving distance. Lake City of Seymour Texas
pizza, and so much more. Relax at one of our pubs Kemp has a surface area of 15,000+ acres on the
for fun, music, and great food with friends or family. largest ranch under one fence line, the Waggnor Office: 940-889-3148
Seymour Texas offers an array of outdoor activities, Ranch. There are 3 gate access points and cabins
entertainment venues, and green spaces within the are available for purchase with land lease required. Email: [email protected]
community and in the County. Enjoy the outdoors Millers Creek Reservoir has a surface area of
in our 26 acre City Park, home to Seymour Creek, 2000+ acres and is open to the public year round
that includes an 18-hole disc golf course, walk track, with primitive camping, a boat ramp, and parking.

FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 83

Where is Horn Hill & Company located? Do you and participates in projects as a results-driven
plan to exapnd into other locations in th u.S? partner helping to make the project successful
Horn Hill & Company is located north of Fort instead of consuming the majority of a client’s
Worth near DFW Airport and major highway budget with lofty marketing and lacking results.
systems. We are able to maintain the necessary kevin can you tell us about the four core
focus on our clients’ needs instead of diverting principles that have been used to build
attention to traffic, and other hassles that come this great business Horn Hill & Company?
with being in big cities. At Horn Hill & Company The core principles of Horn Hill & Company are
we spend our time focused on solving the real-life foundation for our business and our actions.
maze of networks and opportunities to increase Our four core principles are: Integrity, Energy,
our clients’ success. Partnership, and Value. These principles are
Can you briefly outline the services you provide unfortunately lacking in many consulting firms.
Kevin what is Horn Hill & Company? Why at Horn Hill & Company? Horn Hill & Company ensures integrity through
was the company formed? The services that we provide range across the effective communication and a dedicated
Horn Hill & Company provides leadership economic development spectrum, and are tailored interest in our client’s success. Energy is vital
in the areas where communities, business, to meet client’s needs. Our basic offerings cover in any project, and most especially for those
and investors intersect. We defend the areas like, site selection and incentives negotiations projects in areas that are not accustom to
interests, build the network, and focus to grant writing and administration to general development, Horn Hill & Company is committed
on accomplishing the goals of our clients. economic development consulting. to maintaining high energy and bringing equally
The economy is a constant rotation of Kevin how does Horn Hill & Company provide high energy partners to a project to ensure
developments and transactions that are initiated a strategic advantage over its competitors? competition does not close the gap on our
through relationships, and that is where we Horn Hill & Company is not a major firm interested advantage. Partnership and Value are separate
fit in. At its core Horn Hill & Company is a in every possible deal. We don’t work in volume, but equal at Horn Hill & Company, and this is
consulting hub that identifies opportunities we focus on quality. Quality clients, quality evidenced through our role in a project as we
between parties that would not have otherwise partnerships, quality projects and quality results. constantly work with our clients to guarantee
connected. When you bring an opportunity or You will find in our industry, as in many others, their satisfaction in not only the results, but
a need to us, we introduce you to other parties communication is weak and billing is excessive. also the process.
that are necessary to bring a project to bear.
Horn Hill & Company communicates effectively
What is the main objective of Horn Hill & Kevin Holzbog
Company?
Horn Hill & Company was formed to create a FOUNDER & CEO
solution for growing communities. The two Horn Hill & Company
major problems in growing economies are the
lack of awareness regarding available resources Phone : (903) 624-6354
to their communities along with the general lack www.hornhillco.com
of necessary funds to invest in gaining interest
from serious development professionals. Horn
Hill & Company addresses this problem by
being easily accessible to clients and taking hh
the time to fully understand the interests of
each party and offering a customized service
at an affordable rate.



86 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

GrowiNG our




E C o S yS T E M























The conviction that entrepreneurship creates jobs Jacksboro has recently become home to a company companies, including wind, gas, and oil. Oilfield
and produces economic growth has become deeply whose mission is to train all First Responders how supplies and services actually make up the bulk of
entrenched in the economic development strategies to address a threat on human life, in order to limit the businesses operating in our area for many, many
and programs of Jacksboro and our region. To a casualties of emergency personnel and the citizens years. This organic cluster of energy companies
great extent our policies and programs facilitate and they serve and protect. The Jacksboro Economic makes recruiting companies manufacturing parts
foster venture creation and early venture growth, Development Corporation is currently working with for this industry a must. Small tools for fracking,
increasing an entrepreneurship ecosystem. Evidence two other companies that manufacture products plugs, parts, fishing tools, etc. and all manner of small
of this activity is seen in the start-up encouragement useful in this training facility. This is a win/win for parts for wind turbines are on our radar for potential
programs in Texas. But entrepreneurship-base our existing business, perpetuating growth for them relocation to Jacksboro. This growth ecosystem has
growth doesn’t necessarily require new firms. and new business opportunities for their contractors the potential to also foster logistics facilities for
Instead of only scaling up businesses, we also work and clients. We saw opportunity in an area that was shipping products all over the world.
with existing businesses. We help our businesses not previously represented in our region and worked
We have the available land for construction, the
identify what they need. Then we begin the search diligently to locate them in Jacksboro, creating an
workforce, the schools, a new hospital, a new housing
for those pieces of the puzzle. We focus on an area entirely new ecosystem with growth potential. This
development with infrastructure in place and homes
of comparative advantage and new ways of working entity has both a for-profit arm and a nonprofit,
under construction, an excellent quality of life,
together. We make every effort to link innovation fundraising component to their business plan.
and the desire to work with companies to join our
capacity and entrepreneurial capacity. The initial contacts made with their vendors and
successful ecosystem. Add Jacksboro’s proximity to
contributors have resulted in multiple possibilities
An entrepreneurial ecosystem is the interaction of the metroplex, and you have a winning combination
for new businesses to locate or move here.
all elements that sustain a system in which increasing for growing companies and a growing community.
numbers of companies grow faster. For example, Jacksboro has long been home to a variety of energy


Lynda Pack

Executive Director
Jacksboro Economic Development
Corporation (JEDC)
Location: 1025 State Hwy 59

City: Jacksboro, Texas 76458
Work: (940) 567-3151
Email: [email protected]
JACKSBORO BUSINESS PARK




88 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

GOVERNOR

SCOTT WALKER







STATE OF




WISCONSIN












Companies looking to start, relocate or expand GE Healthcare and Oshkosh Corporation are but located. In total, the ripple effect of GE Healthcare
their operations in Wisconsin benefit from the state’s two of many companies that both benefit from and supports more than 20,000 jobs in Wisconsin
central location, reliable infrastructure, industry lead- contribute to Wisconsin’s strong, productive and ver- through its supply chain participants in the state.
ership, talented workforce and business-friendly pol- satile business climate.
icies—all of which create competitive advantages GE Healthcare’s history in Wisconsin dates back to
that help businesses capitalize upon regional, na- GE Healthcare is an $18 billion unit of General 1947, when the GE X-Ray Department, as it was
tional and global market opportunities. Electric Co., employing more than 52,000 people known then, moved from Chicago to occupy a sur-
worldwide and serving healthcare professionals in plus production plant in West Milwaukee. Today, GE
Wisconsin’s long history of innovation continues to more than 100 countries. The company’s imaging Healthcare has facilities in Waukesha, Wauwatosa,
fuel new solutions to challenges facing people, com- and clinical care practices, which include ultrasound, Milwaukee, West Milwaukee, Oak Creek, Madison
panies, nations and our very planet, with some of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed to- and Pewaukee.
the most respected companies in the world drawing mography (CT), patient monitoring, maternal-infant
upon Wisconsin’s plentiful natural resources, re- care and X-Ray technologies, is headquartered in In 2004, the company acquired Amersham plc, a
nowned research capabilities and the can-do spirit Wisconsin, where the largest concentration of GE British life sciences firm, and changed its name from
of its citizens to grow and succeed. Healthcare’s workforce—6,000 employees—is “GE Medical Systems” to “GE Healthcare.” In 2016,

90 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

Companies looking to start, relocate or expand Healthcare’s workforce—6,000 employees—is sible for maintaining GE Healthcare’s cutting-edge
their operations in Wisconsin benefit from the state’s located. In total, the ripple effect of GE Healthcare medical diagnostic equipment.
central location, reliable infrastructure, industry lead- supports more than 20,000 jobs in Wisconsin
ership, talented workforce and business-friendly pol- through its supply chain participants in the state. “We have a good track record of success in Wiscon-
icies—all of which create competitive advantages sin when it comes to attracting high caliber talent,
that help businesses capitalize upon regional, na- GE Healthcare’s history in Wisconsin dates back to developing supply streams, governmental collabo-
tional and global market opportunities. 1947, when the GE X-Ray Department, as it was ration and partnering with higher education,” said
known then, moved from Chicago to occupy a sur- Karim Karti, president and CEO of Imaging for GE
Wisconsin’s long history of innovation continues to plus production plant in West Milwaukee. Today, GE Healthcare. “Wisconsin plays a critical role in our
fuel new solutions to challenges facing people, com- Healthcare has facilities in Waukesha, Wauwatosa, business on both a local and global scale.”
panies, nations and our very planet, with some of Milwaukee, West Milwaukee, Oak Creek, Madison
the most respected companies in the world drawing and Pewaukee. GE Healthcare’s successful entry into the medical
upon Wisconsin’s plentiful natural resources, re- ultrasound business in 1990 is a testament to the
nowned research capabilities and the can-do spirit In 2004, the company acquired Amersham plc, a ingenuity of the company’s Wisconsin-based work-
of its citizens to grow and succeed. British life sciences firm, and changed its name from force. By 2001, GE Healthcare had grown this di-
GE Healthcare and Oshkosh Corporation are but “GE Medical Systems” to “GE Healthcare.” In 2016, vision to become the global leader in this industry,
two of many companies that both benefit from and the company moved its global headquarters from expanding its ultrasound operations worldwide. By
contribute to Wisconsin’s strong, productive and ver- the UK to Chicago, which provides added benefits 2016, GE Healthcare had become the premier
satile business climate. to Wisconsin by bringing executive leaders and key global provider of medical ultrasound. The compa-
management functions closer to Wisconsin-based ny attributes this success in part to a flagship product
GE Healthcare is an $18 billion unit of General manufacturing and engineering operations. engineered in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, called the
Electric Co., employing more than 52,000 people LOGIQ E9. The LOGIQ E9 is now the world’s lead-
worldwide and serving healthcare professionals in GE Healthcare also recently announced plans to ing ultrasound system based on the number of units
more than 100 countries. The company’s imaging shift production of incubators and warmers for hos- sold and is relied upon by radiology departments in
and clinical care practices, which include ultrasound, pital and neonatal intensive care units from Laurel, leading institutions across the globe. The LOGIQ E9
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed to- Maryland, to Wisconsin. And the company opened was first launched in 2009 and took approximately
mography (CT), patient monitoring, maternal-infant a new repair center in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, in 100 Wisconsin-based engineers five years to devel-
care and X-Ray technologies, is headquartered in March, an expansion that will ultimately mean 220 op. In 2016, GE Healthcare produced its 17,000th
Wisconsin, where the largest concentration of GE highly skilled Wisconsin-based employees respon- LOGIQ E9 with cumulative sales of $2 billion.


FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 91

who Needs Data?






















































Every community is so vastly different from each other community. That’s fairly we have the largest certified site in the state of over 700 acres and other smaller
obvious however it provides a huge challenge for site selectors, businesses and options around the community.
economic development organizations. Within thirty miles of us there are four When site selectors do choose an area to do more research, how they are received
very different yet similarly sized communities that all do economic development by that community is important. While we certainly are competitive amongst the
work different. different municipalities here, the greater good of the larger community is what

Our chamber, economic development organization, young professional group and we all seek. Our governmental units work well with the state. Our chamber (us)
leadership programming are all under one umbrella. If we are chosen as the entry works well with government. Our entrepreneurial ecosystem appreciates the
point by a site selector of business, that makes life a little simpler in the process. benefit of a diverse business community. The business community understands
The first step we do is bring in other resources to help with the process. We have the importance of a quality education system. And we are all willing to sit at the
worked hard to build trusting relationships with the municipalities, education and same table to solve challenges and engage businesses.
business community. This pays off when we can collaborate within our ecosystem.
Sometimes the process begins without the site selectors. Our visitors and
One of the key starting points for a site selector is the economic data about a travelers appreciate the community in which we live and work. With our new talent
community. There are certain benchmarks that must be achieved for a community to attraction website, businesses and potential employees can do more research
rise to the top of the list, or more correctly get removed from the list of consideration. at everythingpointshere.com. The technical site selector data can be found at
I understand the need for data with the vast variety of communities looking to portagecountybiz.com. Our convention and visitors bureau continues to break
grow. What data doesn’t reveal is what we have to offer in terms of work ethic and records for attracting folks to the area. That bodes well for our businesses and
enthusiasm. So, while we may never get a Red Lobster due to the data, there is a employees and is a welcome indicator for site selectors beyond the data.
great deal of economic development activity in our community. Building on that, Quality of life is now an overused but critical term. It is Overused in the sense that




92 FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018

everyone brags about their quality of life but in the sense employee
attraction and retention is such an important element for businesses
considering an area. One aspect is our educations system. We have
several public and private choices for birth to 12th grade. There is
both a technical college (mstc.edu) and four-year institution (uwsp.
edu) here. We have a 26-mile recreation trail with several spurs. The
Wisconsin River and many other lakes and rivers abound. There are
several sources for live entertainment, shopping, eating and all of
the other amenities. Professional and major college sports teams
are all within a short drive. The cost of living is affordable and and
below the national average. You can count the time it takes to get
downtown on one or two hands.
All of these factors play into our ecosystem. When you dig beneath
the data you will be impressed. We are not a major metropolitan
area and we are proud of that. We enjoy the four seasons and are
proud of that. We are where economic vitality meets quality of life.
































Todd Kuckkahn

Executive Director

Portage County Business Council, Inc. (PCBC)
portagecountybiz.com
5501 Vern Holmes Drive |

Stevens Point, WI 54482
Phone: 715-344-1940

[email protected]













FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 93

PASCO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

PASCO READY SITES PROGRAM
PASCO COUNTY, FL
TAMPA
BAY











ENTERPRISE SOUTH SUPER PARK


LAND INFORMATION
1066 ACRES
NEAR DADE CITY
SINGLE OWNER
DUAL SERVED ELECTRIC


TRANSPORTATION
ADJACENT TO CSX RAIL
3 MI TO US HWY 301
13 MI TO I-75
21 MI TO I-4
43 MI TO TAMPA INTL. AIRPORT
7.8 MI TO ZEPHYRHILLS MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
33 MILES TO PORT TAMPA BAY


35 MILE RADIUS FROM PROPERTY
POPULATION: 2,470,055
LABOR FORCE: 1,194,789


LAND USE IS IDEAL FOR
MANUFACTURING
WAREHOUSE AND DISTRIBUTION
OFFICE SPACE












16506 Pointe Village Drive, Ste. 101
Lutz, Florida, 33558
888-60-PASCO ext.
www.pascoedc.com

TOP






SHELF










Topeka, Kansas is nestled in the middle of the U.S. with connectivity to five major
highways allowing quick access to Interstates 70 and 335. Topeka is home to one
of the longest air runways in the U.S. At 12,800 feet long, Forbes Field Air Logistics

Facility, located in the South Topeka Economic Growth Corridor, is one of the top six
longest runways in the nation that is still under capacity.

Connected by Highway 75 and a BNSF Railway line and close to Interstate 335 and
Interstate 70, the three sites represent the industrial infrastructure of future economic
growth in Shawnee County. Topeka’s strengths as a logistics and distribution hub
have already proven to be invaluable to companies such as Mars, Target, Home

Depot, Big Heart Pet Brands, Goodyear, Frito Lay and PTMW, who all have
distribution centers in the community.

GOTopeka.com