CHAMBER TO DEVELOP REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The RKG led team was chosen after a thorough selection process that included a formal request for proposals from economic development firms, evaluation of the responses received, interviews with finalists, and evaluation of past projects and experience. The process was led by a selection committee, comprised of twelve business and community leaders.
The purpose of this effort is to develop a multi-faceted and implementable plan to guide the Chamber’s regional economic development efforts over the next 10 to 15 years, providing for sustainable growth. In the 1990s, the Chamber led a similar community and business-based planning effort that proved effective in driving economic development efforts over a twenty-year period and led to the creation of many of the region’s economic assets. Recognizing that much has changed since that first plan was developed and the major impact it had in advancing the local economy, the Chamber felt that the time was right to undergo this process again and develop a new plan for the future.
“In order to gain a competitive edge, we believe that it is time to reflect on the assets we have in North Central Massachusetts and how we can build on them,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We believe it’s important to go through this process to develop a shared vision for the future of the region and a roadmap to ultimately achieve success.”
Echoing Nascimento’s sentiments, RKG Vice President and Principal, Eric Halvorsen stated, “North Central Massachusetts is at an important point in its history. It needs to set a new economic path forward that capitalizes on its regional competitive advantages but does so in a way that leverages new economic development opportunities and outcomes.”
This development of this comprehensive regional economic development plan is part of the Chamber’s continuing efforts to advance the economy of North Central Massachusetts. For more information on the project, please contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600.