STRATEGIC PLANNING

GOALS

To achieve the Vision for the future of the Western Southern Tier, the region should attempt to achieve the following five economic development goals:

1. Human Capital

To develop a skilled labor force capable of creating a knowledge-based and innovation-based economy, and that encourages businesses to start, locate, and expand in the region

2. Traditional and Non-Traditional Infrastructure

To maintain and improve the region’s built environment and services that are requisite for retaining and expanding existing businesses and attracting new businesses

3. Innovation and Entrepreneurship

To catalyze innovation and new business development and growth, especially as regards technology-based, value added, and net export businesses

4. Quality, Connected Places

To create quality, connected, safe, convenient and healthy places to live and work, that make the region attractive as a place to live, work and do business

5. Collaborative Leadership

To encourage coordinated governance and rational and coordinated systemic investment in targeted economic development initiatives

The strategic recommendations (i.e., objective, priority strategic foci, projects, programs, and other activities) contained in this CEDS are consistent with and designed to achieve these five stated goals.