Southwest Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development ......SDG.US Southwest Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2010 Commissioned by the ... Princeton, and Whirlpool

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Southwest Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2010

Commissioned by the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana

Serving Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick Counties

JUNE 2010

SOUTHWEST INDIANA COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY 2010 1

Southwest Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2010

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Background ..................................................................................................................................... 3

Southwest Indiana’s Regional Planning for Economic Development: 1999 - 2010........................ 5

The Planning Process ...................................................................................................................... 5

The 2010 CEDS Committee ......................................................................................................... 6

DEMOGRAPHIC AND SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS

Population ....................................................................................................................................... 8

Population by Socioeconomic Factors ............................................................................................ 9

Age .............................................................................................................................................. 9

Race ........................................................................................................................................... 10

Population Projections .............................................................................................................. 11

Economic Vitality .......................................................................................................................... 11

Poverty ...................................................................................................................................... 11

Income ...................................................................................................................................... 12

Unemployment ......................................................................................................................... 12

Employment by Sector .............................................................................................................. 13

Employment Available in Southwest Indiana ........................................................................... 13

Notable Changes in Employment by Sector, 2004-2008 ...................................................... 15

Employment Held by Southwest Indiana Residents ............................................................. 16

Commuting Patterns ................................................................................................................. 17

Major Employers ....................................................................................................................... 19

Education ...................................................................................................................................... 20

Cost of Living ................................................................................................................................. 21

Utilities & Communications .......................................................................................................... 21


Housing ......................................................................................................................................... 22

Transportation .............................................................................................................................. 22

Air Travel ............................................................................................................................... 24

ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Education and Workforce Development Problems and Opportunities ....................................... 25

Health Care Problems and Opportunities ..................................................................................... 26

Infrastructure Problems and Opportunities ................................................................................. 27

Quality of Life Problems and Opportunities ................................................................................. 27

Business Innovation ...................................................................................................................... 28

THE CEDS PLANNING PROCESS

Vision for the Region ..................................................................................................................... 30

CEDS Goals .................................................................................................................................... 30

Action Strategies ........................................................................................................................... 31

Performance Measures ................................................................................................................. 36

APPENDIX

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List

CEDS Steering Committee Meeting Agendas and Summaries

Commissioners Resolutions


INTRODUCTION

This document is the 2010 five-year Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

document for the four-county Indiana region of Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick. The

regional economic development organization is the Economic Development Coalition of

Southwest Indiana (EDC).

This new CEDS has the support of the local economic development organizations of each

county, the board of county commissioners from each county, and a wide range of community

leaders from each sector. Copies of each county’s board of commissioners’ resolution

supporting this CEDS can be found in the appendix.

Background

The regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy focuses on a four county area of

Southwest Indiana. It includes Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties. These four

counties compose the region known as Region 13B.

All neighboring counties in Regions 13A and 15 already participate in a regional development

organization and pursue regional strategic planning on an annual basis. Currently, these four

counties are the only counties in southwestern Indiana not participating in some form of

regional development organization. These four counties of Southwest Indiana are becoming

increasingly interdependent as evidenced by commuting patterns.

The four counties have a combined population of 292,709 (2009 data), and are part of the

Evansville metro area, which has a total population of 342,815. In 2007 the metropolitan area

was ranked 88th in the nation in terms of growth and economic impact. Evansville, the county

seat of Vanderburgh County, is the third-largest city in Indiana and the largest in Southern

Indiana. Located on the Ohio River, the population of Evansville is 116,584 (2009 data), which

is a 2.0% increase since the 2000 census. Evansville is the regional economic hub for the

Illinois-Indiana-Kentucky Tri-State Area, a 24-county economic region with 822,000 residents.

Major industries include manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, retailing, health care,

and finance and business services. Corporate headquarters include Accuride, Atlas Van Lines,

Berry Plastics, Old National Bank, Shoe Carnival, and Vectren. Evansville also is home to

American General Finance, a division of AIG, and Mead Johnson Nutrition. Major

manufacturing operations in and around the city include AK Steel in Rockport, Alcoa in

Newburgh, Toyota in Princeton, and Whirlpool Corporation in Evansville.


Various types of businesses and many corporate headquarters are located in Southwest

Indiana. Key sectors in the area include: bio and life science, advanced manufacturing,

advanced logistics, and energy. Southwest Indiana is the global center of excellence for plastics

and plastics derivatives, including SABIC Innovative Plastics, Berry Plastics, and others; a center

of activity for bio and life sciences, including the headquarters and research and development

facilities for Mead Johnson Nutrition, the most sophisticated nutritional center in the world,

owned by Bristol-Myers Squibb; the headquarters of the Vectren Corporation, an innovative

leader in energy delivery services, energy marketing services, coal mining, and energy

infrastructure services; and home to cutting-edge automotive facilities, including one of the

most highly-advanced auto assembly facilities in the world, the Toyota Motor Manufacturing

Indiana assembly plant for the Highlander, Sienna, and Sequoia.

The Southwest Indiana region provides unique advantages for these businesses and industries,

including a central U.S. location (with respect to geography and population), within 3.5 hours of

five cities with metro populations of 1+ million; and a strong, high-sulfur coal industry.

The City of Evansville offers a unique pro-business tax structure for companies locating inside

the Evansville Urban Enterprise Zone. Established in 1983 as one of only six enterprise zones in

the State of Indiana, the 2.1-square-mile Evansville Urban Enterprise Zone offers inventory tax

credits and other tax credits to eligible businesses.

Major industries include manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, retailing, health care,

and finance and business services. Corporate headquarters include Accuride, Atlas Van Lines,

Berry Plastics, Old National Bank, Shoe Carnival, and Vectren. Evansville also is home to

American General Finance, a division of AIG, and Mead Johnson Nutrition. Major manufacturing

operations in and around the city include AK Steel in Rockport, Alcoa in Newburgh, Toyota in

Princeton, and Whirlpool Corporation in Evansville.

The Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville (GAGE) operates a high-tech business incubator for

new business development. Regional tourism was expanded in 1995 by the Casino Aztar

entertainment facility. The main complex consists of a 2,700 passenger riverboat casino, a 250-

room hotel, a 1,660 vehicle parking garage, and pavilion housing pre-boarding facilities, retail

shops, restaurants, and lounge area. An adjacent entertainment district features a 100-room

boutique hotel and additional restaurants.


Southwest Indiana’s Regional Planning for Economic

Development: 1999 - 2010

During the fall of 1998, the Indiana Economic Development Council approached the community

leaders of Posey, Vanderburgh, Gibson, and Warrick counties regarding the development of a

region-wide economic development strategy. The counties agreed to pursue the opportunity,

and were given an EDA grant to fund the project.

In September, 1999 the Southwest Indiana Regional Development Corporation (SIRDC) was

formed as a regional planning commission by elected officials, community representatives, and

private sector representatives from Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties. The

SIRDC commissioned a Regional Factfinder and SWOT Analysis and met over a period of nine

months to discuss regional issues, identify goals, and plan strategies. The organization reported

its findings and unveiled a regional vision and strategy in its 2000 CEDS report document. SIRDC

continued to serve the regional planning needs of the four-county area through January 2005.

In January 2005, the SIRDC gathered to review and update the 2000 CEDS report. At that time,

organization changed the corporation’s name to the Quad County Development Commission

(QCDC). The group filed its 2005 CEDS update under that new name. In 2006, the QCDC re-

evaluated its effectiveness as a regional planning commission and began to consider the need

for targeted economic development.

The result of that discussion was the formation of the Economic Development Coalition of

Southwest Indiana (EDC) on June 23, 2006. In October, 2006 the QCDC made a collective

decision to move under the umbrella of the EDC.

During the spring of 2008, the EDC Board of Directors, comprised of local elected government

leaders, civic leaders, and community members, gathered to develop a new strategic

framework for the economic development and regional planning of Gibson, Posey,

Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties. In June 2009 the region updated its CEDS and submitted it

to the Economic Development Administration.

The Planning Process

The Southwest Indiana’s 2010 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) planning

process was a joint effort between Strategic Development Group, Inc. and the Economic

Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana. The Southwest Indiana region discussed in this

CEDS report is comprised of four counties: Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick.


The region is bordered to the south by the Ohio River and to the west by the Wabash River.

Kentucky is to the south across the Ohio River and Illinois is to the west across the Wabash.

Spencer County borders the region to the east and Dubois, Pike and Knox counties border it to

the north. Southwest Indiana is comprised of 1,516 square miles and has a population density

of 193 residents per square mile (2009).

The 2010 CEDS Committee

1. Kevin Bain, Welborn Baptist Foundation

2. Debbie Bennett‐Stearsman, Economic Development Coalition

3. Carol Braden‐Clarke, United Way

4. Adrian Brooks, Memorial Baptist Church

5. Barbara Dicken, Vanderburgh County Foundation

6. Julie Eickhoff, Posey Community Foundation

7. Greg Goodson, Old National Bank

8. Julie Gorman, Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville

9. Tim Hayden, Vanderburgh County Foundation

10. Jim Heck, WorkOne Southwest

11. Pam Hendrickson, Mayor, Boonville

12. Kim Howard , Southwestern Small Business Development Center

13. Bob Hurst, Mayor, Princeton

14. Patrick Jackson, Welborn Baptist Foundation

15. Marilyn Klenck, Community Foundation Alliance

16. Steve Koenig, Economic Development Coalition

17. Matt Meadors, Chamber of Commerce of Southwest Indiana

18. Brad Mills, Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization

19. Todd Mosby, Gibson County Economic Development

20. Mildred Motley, Evansville Housing Authority

21. Tami Muckerheide, Gibson County Community Foundation

22. Sabrina Newton, Economic Development Coalition

23. Katy Nimnicht, City of Evansville

24. Marlene Obert, South Gibson School Corp. /Gibson County Foundation

25. George Postletheweight, Evansville Area Association of Realtors

26. Jeff Pruitt, Economic Development Coalition

27. Virgil Rasche, Gibson County Chamber of Commerce

28. Jim Rice, Hanum, Wagle & Cline Engineering

29. Mark Seib, Town Council of Poseyville

30. Shari Sherman, Warrick Co. Chamber of Commerce


31. John Sherretz, Posey County Commissioners

32. Susan Sublett, Warrick Community Foundation

33. Erika Taylor, Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville

34. Larry Taylor , Warrick County Economic Development

35. Marques Terry, Evansville Housing Authority

36. Karen Thompson, Gibson County Chamber of Commerce

37. Troy Tornatta, Vanderburgh County Commissioners

38. Bob Townsend, Gibson County Commissioners

39. John Tucker, Mayor, Mt. Vernon

40. Greg Wathen, Economic Development Coalition

41. Tiffani Weatherford, Posey County Economic Development Partnership

42. Don Williams, Warrick County Commissioners

43. Keely Winiger, Posey Co. Administrator

44. Robert Yeager, Oakland City University

45. Rose Young, City of Evansville

46. Wylie Zeigler, Economic Development Coalition


DEMOGRAPHIC AND SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS

Population

As of 2009, the Southwest Indiana region’s population was 292,709. At 3%, growth in the

region between 2000 and 2009 was slower than the state average, which was 6%. Table 1

shows that Gibson and Vanderburgh counties experienced some population growth in this

time, but most of the region’s growth occurred in Warrick County. Posey County’s population

fell 4%. Eighty percent of the region’s total population resides in Vanderburgh (60%) and

Warrick (20%) counties. Eleven percent live in Gibson County and 9% in Posey County.

Table 1 County Population Estimates and as a Percent of Total Regional Population, 2000-2009

County Population, 2000

Population, 2009

% Change, 2000-2009

% of Region’s Total Pop

Gibson 32,500 32,750 1% 11%

Posey 27,061 26,004 -4% 9%

Vanderburgh 171,922 175,434 2% 60%

Warrick 52,383 58,521 12% 20%

SW Indiana Region 283,866 292,709 3% 100%

Indiana 6,080,485 6,423,113 6%

Source: STATS Indiana

Figure 1 shows county and regional populations as a percent of the total state population from

1990-2009. This measure indicates how well individual counties and the Southwest Indiana

region have kept up with state population trends. Since 1990, the region’s population as a

percent of the state total has fallen 1.3 percentage points from 5.9% to 4.6%. Vanderburgh

County alone fell 1.4 percentage points, from 4.1% to 2.7%. Warrick was the only county

whose population rose as a percent of the state total, increasing from 0.5% to 0.9% from 1990

to 2009.


Figure 1 County and Regional Populations as a Percent of the Total State Population, 1990-2009


Table 2 shows 2008 population estimates for the eight largest incorporated communities in the

Southwest Indiana region. Evansville, in Vanderburgh County, comprises 40% of the region’s

total population and 67% of Vanderburgh County’s total population. While the populations of

other cities and towns comprise significant percentages of individual county populations, no

other community made up more than 3% of the region’s total population.

Table 2 SW Indiana Region's Population Breakdown by Cities and Towns, 2008

City/Town Population, 2008

County % of Region's Total Pop

% of County's Total Pop

Evansville 116,309 Vanderburgh 40% 67%

Princeton 8,447 Gibson 3% 26%

Mount Vernon 6,980 Posey 2% 27%

Boonville 6,746 Warrick 2% 12%

Newburgh 3,312 Warrick 1% 6%

Chandler 3,098 Warrick 1% 5%

Fort Branch 2,550 Gibson 1% 8%

Oakland City 2,512 Gibson 1% 8%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau; STATS Indiana

Population by Socioeconomic Factors

Age

Table 3 shows population estimates by age and the median age for the Southwest Indiana

region and its counties, as well as for Indiana as a whole, in 2008. The region’s median age is

38.6, nearly two years older than the state average of 36.7. With a median age of 37.8,

Vanderburgh is the region’s youngest county. At a median age of 41.6, Posey County is the

oldest.

0.6% 0.5% 0.5%0.5% 0.4% 0.4%

4.1%

2.8% 2.7%

0.5% 0.9% 0.9%

5.9%

4.7% 4.6%

1990 2000 2009

Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region


Table 3 Population Estimates by Age

County Preschool (0-4)

School (5-17)

College (18-24)

Young Adult (25-44)

Older Adult (45-64)

Older (65+)

Median Age, 2008

Gibson 6% 17% 8% 26% 28% 15% 39.5

Posey 5% 17% 9% 24% 32% 13% 41.6

Vanderburgh 7% 16% 11% 25% 26% 15% 37.8

Warrick 6% 18% 8% 26% 29% 12% 39.0

SW Indiana Region 7% 17% 10% 25% 27% 14% 38.6

Indiana 7% 18% 10% 27% 26% 13% 36.7

Source: U.S. Census Bureau; STATS Indiana

Recent projections from the Indiana Business Research Center shown in Table 4 indicate that

the median age will continue to increase in the region until at least 2040. The greatest median

age increase will be in Posey County, which is expected jump more than five years from 41.6 in

2008 to 46.7 in 2040.

Table 4 Median Age Projections

County 2010 2020 2030 2040 Projected Change, 2010-2040

Gibson 39.1 39.8 41.4 42.2 3.1

Posey 42.2 43.9 45.6 46.7 4.5

Vanderburgh 37.5 38.4 39.3 40.4 2.9

Warrick 39.5 40.9 42.7 43.3 3.8

SW Indiana Region 38.5 39.5 40.8 41.7 3.2

Indiana 36.4 37.7 38.9 39.8 3.4


Race

The Southwest Indiana region has a higher percentage of whites and a lower percentage of

Blacks, Asians, multi-racial, and Hispanic residents than Indiana as a whole, as shown in Table 5.

Vanderburgh County more closely resembles state trends than the region’s other counties, but

still has fewer non-whites and far fewer Hispanics as a percentage of total population. Over

95% of residents in Gibson, Posey and Warrick counties are white.

Table 5 Population Estimates by Race and Hispanic Origin, 2008

County White alone

Black or African American alone

Asian Some other race or two or more races

Hispanic origin (any race)

Gibson 95.8% 2.3% 0.5% 1.4% 0.9%

Posey* 98.0% 0.9% 0.2% 0.9% 0.4%

Vanderburgh 88.2% 8.5% 1.0% 2.3% 1.3%


County White alone

Black or African American alone

Asian Some other race or two or more races

Hispanic origin (any race)

Warrick 95.4% 1.1% 1.0% 2.5% 1.1%

SW Indiana Region 91.4% 5.7% 0.9% 2.1% 1.1%

Indiana 85.7% 8.6% 1.3% 4.4% 5.0%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Surveys

Population Projections

The population is expected to increase throughout the Southwest Indiana region through 2040,

but at slower rates than the state average. Population projections for the region and its

counties are shown in Figure 2. The region is projected to add 15,533 residents between 2010

and 2040, a total growth of 5%. This compares to the state projection of 12% growth. Posey

County is expected to be the exception to the trend of slow growth; it is anticipated to shrink by

7% by 2040.

Figure 2 Population Projections, 2010-2040


Economic Vitality

Poverty

Figure 3 shows that the poverty rate in the Southwest Indiana region is higher and has

increased faster than both the state and nation in recent years. As of 2008, the poverty rate in

the Southwest Indiana region was at 14%, due primarily to the poverty rate of 17% in

Vanderburgh County, which contains three-fifths of the region’s population.

Outside of Vanderburgh County, the region’s counties have relatively low poverty rates;

Warrick (8%), Posey (10%) and Gibson (12%) are all below state and national averages.

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210

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2010 2020 2030 2040

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Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region


Figure 3 Poverty Rates; 2008 Rate and Average Annual Increase in Rate from 2004-2008

Source: Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates, U.S. Census Bureau

Income

While Vanderburgh County inflates the region’s poverty rates, Figure 4 shows that it deflates

the region’s income indicators. Median household income in the Southwest Indiana region is

lower than the state and national averages and per capita income is slightly higher than the

state and lower than the nation. Were Vanderburgh County to be excluded from the income

indicators calculations, the region would surpass state and national figures for both indicators.

Figure 4 Income Indicators, 2008

Source: U.S. Census Bureau; American Community Surveys

Unemployment

Unemployment rates jumped in 2008 throughout the United States as the global recession took

effect. While the Southwest Indiana region has not been immune to job losses, unemployment

numbers shown indicate that it has weathered the storm better than the state and nation. With

the exception of Gibson County in 2009, counties in the Southwest Indiana region have

maintained lower unemployment rates than the state and nation, as shown in Figure 5.

12%10%

17%

8%

14% 13% 13%

8%

5%8%

5%7%

4%

1%

Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region Indiana U.S.

2008 Poverty Rate Average Annual Increase in Poverty Rate, 2004-2008

$48,987

$59,184

$42,027

$62,736

$48,470 $48,675 $52,175

$23,428$28,142

$23,815$31,008

$25,594 $24,627 $27,466

Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region Indiana United States

Median Household Income Per Capita Income


Figure 5 Unemployment Trends, 2008-2010

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, STATS America

It is important to note that unemployment figures can be skewed due to changes in the labor

force. If discouraged workers stop seeking employment due to unavailability of jobs, it is

possible that the unemployment rate can decrease even while there continues to be a net loss

of jobs in a community. Southwest Indiana lost 6,169 workers (4.1% of its labor force) between

March 2008 and March 2010. After adjusting for these labor force changes, the unemployment

rates are slightly higher all four counties, the region and the state; however, Southwest Indiana

counties and the region as a whole still outperform both Indiana and the nation.

Employment by Sector

There are two ways to look at employment by sector for the Southwest Indiana region. The

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) collects data about jobs in a given area regardless of employee

residency, while the U.S. Census Bureau collects data about the types of jobs held by residents

of a particular area. In this section, employment by sector is provided from both the BLS and

Census perspectives for Southwest Indiana.

Employment Available in Southwest Indiana

Figure 6 shows that the types and quantities of jobs available in Southwest Indiana are very

similar to state trends, particularly for small sectors such as agricultural; administrative and

waste services; mining; arts and entertainment; accommodation and food service; information;

and real estate. In the major sectors, there are some differences. The region has a slightly

lower-than-average share of manufacturing jobs, but a larger than average share of health care

and social assistance jobs, a positive trend because the health care field is growing while

manufacturing is shrinking nationwide.

4% 5% 5% 4% 5%6% 5%

11%

9% 9%8%

9%

11%

9%8% 8%

9% 8% 9%

11% 10%

Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region Indiana U.S.

March 2008 March 2009 March 2010


Figure 6 Southwest Indiana and State Percent Employment by Sector, 2008

** = Some information not included due to confidentiality Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

In the educational services sector, it appears as though the region has far fewer jobs than

average, but this may be misleading due to missing information in Posey County as a result of

confidentiality issues. Further, there appears to be an abundance of government jobs in the

region but it is likely that in Warrick County, education jobs were misclassified as government

jobs. As a result, both the education and government jobs categories are misleading. Table 6

shows the numerical information for Figure 6, above.

Table 6 Southwest Indiana Counties Employment Totals by Sector, 2008

Industry Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region Indiana

Total Employment 15,685 8,764 106,724 14,318 145,491 2,872,442

Total Private Employment 14,407 7,505 98,020 12,358 132,290 2,463,458

Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting 125 57 108 48 338 12,492

Mining 586 19 D 147 752 6,407

Construction 330 668 7,733 1,136 9,867 144,477

Manufacturing 6,361 2,974 13,259 2,782 25,376 521,546

Wholesale Trade 239 368 4,886 404 5,897 124,846

Retail Trade 1,565 767 12,711 1,396 16,439 322,370

Transport. and Warehousing 444 632 4,060 411 5,547 130,702

Utilities 448 D 969 289 1,706 15,011

Information 100 39 2,065 62 2,266 46,516

0%2%4%6%8%

10%12%14%16%18%20%

Region Indiana


Industry Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick Region Indiana

Finance and Insurance 169 140 2,515 490 3,314 98,524

Real Estate, Rental, Leasing 55 42 1,386 348 1,831 34,517

Professional and Tech. Servs. 163 378 3,707 575 4,823 98,494

Mgmt. of Companies 10 0 3,648 10 3,668 28,944

Admin. and Waste Services 604 111 5,653 368 6,736 157,853

Educational Services 666 D 2,064 228 2,958 251,412

Health Care, Social Assistance 1,161 394 17,057 2,160 20,772 370,437

Arts and Entertainment 49 43 1,985 209 2,286 44,692

Accommodation and Food 1,063 484 9,872 866 12,285 242,620

Other Services 268 169 3,826 431 4,694 84,263

Federal, State, & Local Govt. 1,278 1,259 8,704 1,960 13,201 132,057

D = Information not included due to confidentiality

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Notable Changes in Employment by Sector, 2004-2008

Total employment increased in all four Southwest Indiana regions from 2004 to 2008, ranging

from a 0.23% increase in Vanderburgh County to a 1.67% increase in Posey County. Table 7

outlines notable changes in employment by sector from 2004 to 2008 for each Southwest

Indiana county, showing major employment shifts in certain sectors for all four counties.

Warrick County in particular saw a major shift in employment types, with employment

increasing by 25% or more in four industries and decreasing by 10% or more in six industries

(three of which are not shown in Table 7), including manufacturing.

Table 7 Notable Changes in Employment by Sector for Southwest Indiana Counties, 2004-2008

Gibson Posey Vanderburgh Warrick

Admin. & Waste Services

↑ 46% Transp. & Warehousing

↑ 31% Agriculture, Forestry

↑ 33% Mining ↑ 81%

Agriculture, Forestry

↑ 29% Real Estate ↑ 27% Health Care, Social Asst.

↑ 15% Admin. & Waste Serv.

↑ 57%

Health Care, Social Asst.

↑ 17% Arts & Ent. ↑ 16% Finance & Insurance

↓ 10% Prof. & Tech Services

↑ 40%

Education ↑ 16% Prof. & Tech. Services

↑ 16% Information ↓ 12% Education ↑ 25%

Utilities ↓ 16% Admin. & Waste Serv.

↓ 22% Manufact-uring

↓ 15% Manufact-uring

↓ 10%

Transp. & Warehousing

↓ 45% Mining ↓ 84% Arts, Ent., & Recreation

↓ 23%

Information ↓ 43%


Employment Held by Southwest Indiana Residents

Over 144 thousand Southwest Indiana residents, about 50% of the region’s population, are

included in the civilian employed population age 16 and over. Table 8 shows that 59% of these

residents reside in Vanderburgh County, 20% live in Warrick County and the remaining 21% live

in Gibson and Posey counties.

Table 8 Civilian Employed Population Age 16 and Over, 2008

County Employed Residents % of Region

Gibson 16,395 11%

Posey 13,757 10%

Vanderburgh 85,086 59%

Warrick 29,175 20%

Region 144,413 100%


Figure 7 compares employment by industry for residents of the region, state and nation, while

Table 9 provides a detailed breakdown by county.

Figure 7 Employment by Sector, 2008


When compared with state trends, a smaller percent of Southwest Indiana residents are

employed in manufacturing; education, health care and social assistance; construction; and

public administration. A higher percent of residents in the region are employed in retail trade;

arts, entertainment and food services; and transportation, warehousing and utilities than the

state. When compared with the nation, a smaller percent of Southwest Indiana residents are

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employed in construction; agriculture; finance, insurance and real estate; education, health

care and social assistance; and public administration. A higher percent of residents in the region

are employed in manufacturing; retail trade; transportation, warehousing and utilities; and

wholesale trade.

Table 9 Southwest Indiana Resident Employment by Sector, 2008

Industry Gibson Posey Vander. Warrick Region Indiana U.S.

Agriculture, forestry, mining 4% 3% 1% 1% 1% 1% 2%

Construction 6% 8% 6% 6% 6% 7% 8%

Manufacturing 29% 23% 16% 18% 19% 20% 11%

Wholesale trade 3% 4% 3% 5% 4% 3% 3%

Retail trade 12% 12% 13% 13% 13% 11% 12%

Transportation and warehousing, and utilities

8% 8% 5% 6% 6% 5% 5%

Information 2% 1% 2% 2% 2% 2% 3%

Finance, insurance, real estate 3% 5% 6% 6% 6% 6% 7%

Professional, scientific and management

5% 7% 8% 8% 7% 8% 10%

Education, health care, social assistance

15% 17% 21% 21% 20% 21% 21%

Arts, entertainment, recreation and food services

7% 5% 10% 7% 9% 8% 9%

Other services 5% 5% 5% 6% 5% 5% 5%

Public administration 2% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 5%


Commuting Patterns

Commuting trends provide valuable insight into the dynamics of local economies. For example,

a “bedroom” community that houses many workers who commute to jobs in other cities and

towns should approach economic development very differently than a community that has lots

of jobs, but houses relatively few residents. Places that have more workers commuting in than

out are called net importers; places that have more workers commuting out than in are called

net exporters.

Southwest Indiana region is by far a net importer of workers. Table 10 shows that in 2007 there

were 13,886 workers who commuted into the region but only 5,761 workers who commuted

out, a difference of 8,125 workers. This indicates that the Southwest Indiana region is

considered a more desirable place to work than to live. While it is important to retain the

attractive jobs, the commuting trends indicate that one valuable economic development


strategy might be to focus on improving housing, schools and public works initiatives in the

region to make communities more desirable to both live and work in.

Table 10 Commuting Patterns for the Southwest Indiana Region, 2007

County # of persons who live outside the region but are employed in the region

# of persons who live in the region but are employed outside the region

Net Workers Imported

Region 13,886 5,761 8,125

Source: Indiana Department of Revenue

Nearly 55% of the workers commuting into the Southwest Indiana region come from Illinois

(33%), Kentucky (15%) or another state (7%). The remaining 45% come from Indiana counties.

The three greatest contributors are Knox County (6%), Dubois County (4%), and Daviess County

(3%), all of which border the four-county Southern Indiana region. The major locations that

send workers into the Southwest Indiana region are shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8 Major Locations Sending Workers into and Receiving Workers from the Southwest Indiana Region


Commuting trends broken down by county are displayed in Table 11. Vanderburgh and Gibson

counties are major importers of workers while Warrick and Posey counties are major exporters.

Most of the commuting captured in these tables reflects inter-county commuting among the

four Southwest Indiana counties. As net exporters of workers, Warrick and Posey counties are

largely bedroom counties for workers employed in Vanderburgh County. Over 20,500 commute

into Vanderburgh from these two counties, with 74% of these workers coming from Warrick

and 26% from Posey. Gibson County imports most of its commuters from Vanderburgh and

Warrick counties, but also receives 2,165 workers from Illinois.

33%

15% 15%9% 7% 6% 4%

8%

31%

11%

6%17%

6% 10%

Illinois Kentucky Spencer County

Pike County Other Out of State

Knox County

Dubois County

% of Total Commuters INTO Region % of Total Commuters OUT OF Region


Table 11 Commuting Patterns for Southwest Indiana Counties, 2007

County # of persons who live in another county (or state) but are employed in the county

# of persons who live in the county but are employed outside the county

Net Workers Imported

Gibson 9,378 4,694 4,684

Posey 3,342 6,322 -2,980

Vanderburgh 29,892 8,735 21,157

Warrick 4,179 18,890 -14,711


Major Employers

The 20 largest employers in Southwest Indiana provide nearly 38,000 jobs, roughly 26% of the

region’s 146,200 workers. Table 12 shows the 20 largest employers in the region.

Manufacturing companies, health care providers, educational institutions and financial services

providers account for the bulk of the jobs on the major employers list. Six manufacturing

companies provide 12,460 jobs; two health care providers account for 9,100 jobs; two

educational institutions provide 5,350 jobs; and three financial services providers account for

3,160 jobs. Other companies on the list are in the entertainment, food services, utilities,

electronics, construction and warehousing sectors.

Table 12 Twenty Largest Regional Employers

Company Product/Service Employees % of Regional Employment

Deaconess Hospital Medical services 5,300 3.6%

Toyota Motor Manufacturing SUVs and Vans 4,500 3.1%

St. Mary’s Medical Center Medical services 3,800 2.6%

Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp. Education 3,200 2.2%

Koch Enterprises, Inc. Industrial/auto parts manuf. 2,200 1.5%

Univ. of Southern Indiana Education 2,150 1.5%

Alcoa Warrick Operations Aluminum sheet and ingot 2,100 1.4%

T.J. Maxx Distribution center 1,700 1.2%

American General Finance Financial services 1,300 0.9%

Vectren Utility: gas and electric 1,300 0.9%

Whirlpool Corporation Refrigerators 1,260 0.9%

Berry Plastics Injection-molded plastics 1,200 0.8%

Casino Aztar Gaming and entertainment 1,200 0.8%

SABIC Innovative Plastics Plastics: Lexan, Valox, Ultem 1,200 0.8%

Mead Johnson Nutrition Pediatric nutrition 1,100 0.8%

Integra Bank Banking and financial services 960 0.7%


Company Product/Service Employees % of Regional Employment

Ameriqual Foods Meals ready-to-eat 900 0.6%

Old National Bancorp Banking and financial services 900 0.6%

AT&T Wireless communications 750 0.5%

Industrial Contractors Construction 750 0.5%

Source: Southwest Indiana Economic Development Coalition

Education

Educational attainment levels are important to know when planning economic development

because they indicate the types and quality of jobs that can be attracted to the area. They also

serve as a benchmark for comparing how well an area is able to recruit and retain top-tier

skilled labor. Figure 9 shows that a higher percent of Southwest Indiana residents are high

school graduates than around the state and nation, but a lower percent have obtained a

bachelor’s degrees or higher.

Figure 9 Educational Attainment, 2000-2008


The detailed breakdown of educational attainment in Table 13 compares attainment levels for

different educational categories among counties, the region and the state. When compared

with state averages, the region has fewer middle- and high-school dropouts, but it also has

fewer residents with graduate and bachelor’s degrees. There are a high number of residents

with associate degrees in Southwest Indiana, especially in Warrick and Gibson counties. Also,

every county in the region except for Posey County has higher-than-average amounts of

residents who dropped out of college early and did not go back to pursue an associates or

bachelor’s degree. Only in Warrick County do a higher percent of residents hold graduate or

bachelor’s degrees than the state average.

84% 88%

19% 21%

82% 86%

19% 22%

80% 85%

24% 27%

2000 2008* 2000 2008*

High School Graduate or Higher Bachelor's Degree or Higher

Southwest Indiana Region Indiana United States


Table 13 Detailed Educational Attainment Breakdown, 2008

Location Less than 9th Grade

9th-12th, No Diploma

High Sch. Grad

Some College

Associate Degree

Bach. Degree

Grad. or Prof. Degree

Gibson 3.5% 8.9% 42.3% 20.2% 10.7% 10.3% 4.2%

Posey 4.0% 8.3% 43.3% 18.4% 9.2% 11.5% 5.2%

Vanderburgh 3.7% 9.4% 34.6% 22.7% 8.0% 13.8% 7.7%

Warrick 1.9% 6.9% 34.0% 21.4% 10.9% 15.1% 9.8%

Region 3.3% 8.8% 36.1% 21.8% 9.0% 13.5% 7.5%

Indiana 4.4% 9.8% 36.4% 19.8% 7.3% 14.2% 8.0%


Cost of Living

In 2009, the cost of living for the Evansville metro area, which encompasses the Southwest

Indiana region of Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick counties, was 95.4, a lower figure

than the U.S. average of 100. Utilities were the only category in which costs were higher than

the national average; categories such as housing (87.0) and groceries (94.4) were significantly

lower than the U.S. average.

Table 14 Evansville Metro (Southwest Indiana Region) Cost of Living, 2009

Expense Index (U.S. Avg. = 100)

Composite Index 95.4

Groceries 94.4

Housing 87.0

Utilities 114.8

Transportation 96.4

Health Care 97.9

Miscellaneous Goods and Services 96.8

Source: The Council for Community and Economic Research

Utilities & Communications

Electric, natural gas, sewer, telecommunications and water access is available and in good

working condition in all four counties. However, cities, towns and counties across the

Southwest Indiana region indicate that capital improvements are needed for various utilities

and communications infrastructure. A complete list of capital project plans and needs provided

by Southwest Indiana cities, towns and counties can be referenced in the “Capital Projects”

section of this CEDS report.


Housing

Housing trends in Southern Indiana as a whole mirror state trends, but there is much variation

among counties. Table 15 shows that most of Southwest Indiana has low vacancy rates and

below-average rental rates. All four regional counties trail the national median home value

average, but only Gibson and Vanderburgh lag significantly behind state trends in this area.

Vanderburgh is the only Southwest Indiana county with high rental rates, 33% compared with a

29% statewide average. Housing growth has slowed in recent years, as the number of building

permits issued in the region fell from 1,942 in 2004 to 714 in 2008, with an average annual

decrease of 21%. By contrast, the number of permits issued from 2004 to 2008 fell, on average,

by 19% annually in Indiana and 18% annually in the United States.

Table 15 Housing Data Overview, 2008

Gibson Posey Vander. Warrick Region Indiana U.S.

Total Units 15,091 11,665 81,476 24,186 132,418 2,776,916 127,762,925

Occupied Units 91% 92% 93% 95% 93% 92% 91%

Owner-Occupied 78% 82% 67% 83% 72% 71% 66%

Renter-Occupied 22% 18% 33% 17% 28% 29% 34%

Vacant Units 8% 7% 7% 5% 7% 7% 8%

Median Home Value $99,600 $121,100 $108,800 $138,200 $113,801 $122,800 $192,400


Figure 10 shows median home values for the region, state and nation in 2000 and 2008. While

the median home value increased by 61% across the nation between 2000 and 2008, it

increased by just 30% in the state and 33% in the region.

Figure 10 Median Home Values, 2000-2008


Transportation

Southwest Indiana has infrastructure in place for all major modes of transportation: road, air,

water and rail. Figure 11, Figure 12 and Figure 13 show the various transportation

infrastructure in Southwest Indiana. All images were produced by EDC Southwest Indiana.

$85,884 $113,801 $94,300 $122,800 $119,600 $192,400

Median Home Value, 2000 Median Home Value, 2008

Region Indiana United States


Figure 11 Highway Map

Southwest Indiana contains several interstates and U.S. and state highways. Construction to extend I-69 from Evansville to Bloomington (to connect at I-164) is slated to finish in 2014. Current highway infrastructure includes:

I-64 (East/West) through Posey, Warrick and Vanderburgh

I-164 (North/South) through Vanderburgh

U.S. 41 (North/South) through Vanderburgh and Gibson

I-57 (North/South) through Vanderburgh and Gibson

I-62 (East/West) through Posey, Warrick and Vanderburgh

I-66 (East/West) through Posey and Vanderburgh

Note: Only highways that cross multiple regional counties are discussed above.

Figure 12 Railroad Map

Rail access is available in each Southwest Indiana county. The following freight rail companies offer transportation services in Southwest Indiana:

CSX Transportation (CSX) through Vanderburgh and Gibson

Norfolk Southern Corp. (NS) through Gibson, Warrick and Vanderburgh

Indiana Southern Railroad (ISRR) through Gibson and Vanderburgh

Evansville Western Railway (EVWR) through Posey

Southwind Short Line (SWR) through Posey

Indiana Southwestern Railway (ISW) through Posey, Vanderburgh and Gibson


Figure 13 River Map

The Ohio and Wabash rivers together border all four Southwest Indiana counties and are unique economic generators for the Southwest Indiana region. The Port of Indiana-Mount Vernon (originally called the Southwind Maritime Center) in Mount Vernon, Posey County, is one of just three Indiana ports that offers rail-to-water transload facilities, extensive storage areas and a wide range of services. The port handles roughly 4 million tons of grain, coal, fertilizer, cement and minerals each year.

Air Travel

Air transportation for business and non-business purposes is available through the Evansville

Regional Airport, a full-service regional airport with direct flights to Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati,

Dallas, Detroit and Memphis. The airport is strategically located near the intersection of I-64

and U.S. 41, providing direct transportation routes to the airport from all four Southwest

Indiana counties.


ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Southwest Indiana’s strategic location in the Midwest is ideal for manufacturing and

distribution industries. The region’s medical and biosciences cluster represents a strong growth

sector. Economic growth in these sectors requires efficient and well-maintained transportation

infrastructure, as well as reasonably priced and reliable energy, water, waste treatment, and

broadband. Therefore, infrastructure projects are critical to support continued growth and

viability of these sectors.

As in other regions, the national and global economic situation in 2009 has caused economic

challenges in Southwest Indiana, but also has created opportunities. The region has solid

strengths in bio and life science, advanced manufacturing, advanced logistics, health care, and

energy – all growth industries for the foreseeable future.

The planning process for the new CEDS focused on five general areas for improving the region’s

economy:

1. Education.

2. Workforce Development.

3. Health Care.

4. Business Innovation.

5. Quality of Life.

Education and Workforce Development Problems and

Opportunities

Many people who are recently retired or had planned to retire soon now find themselves in a

position of needing to work at least part time. Meanwhile, young talent seeks to enter the

workforce in an environment of corporate downsizing. Companies express a need for ongoing

programs to train and retrain workers to ensure competitiveness in a quickly changing global

marketplace. Southwest Indiana proposes workforce-related programs that are responsive to

regional employer needs, and linked to statewide initiatives.

Aging workforce – finding replacements for those “pushing retirement” who have aged

through the changing environments; replacing the experienced.


Skill level and development – education and training programs.

Work ethic of next generations – generational gaps in expectations; loyalty as a two–

way street between employee and employer.

Retention of talent – “brain drain.”

Low unemployment (4.5%) creating challenges for new companies and development.

Identification of new skills and requirements for new jobs and changing technology.

Assessment of workforce needs and availability.

Encouragement of an atmosphere for the continuing education of the current

workforce.

Compensation package in this area as compared with larger communities.

Companies need to value training and development – overcome the “train them and

lose them” mentality that reduces training investment by companies.

Development of succession planning within companies and career planning for

individual employees.

Recruiting to the area from the “outside.”

Developing a marketing plan for the community to enhance opportunities.

Diversity – culture, engaging and attracting a changing population; Hispanic population

growth in Southern Indiana.

What type of workforce do we want to be in 20-30 years? Manufacturing –

development in the pipeline; overcoming the stigma; how changing technology affects

workforce availability, education and training.

Long-term focus, balanced with immediate goals and “bottom-line” focus.

Need for educational institutions to support the workforce and business needs.

Strengthening and diversification of education/employer interaction.

Industry-specific summits – future needs of the workforce, training and education

needs, development requirements, industry changes.

Health Care Problems and Opportunities

As the population ages, health care and wellness become increasingly important, particularly in

light of the potential cost of unhealthy citizens. Southwest Indiana, like many other areas of

the state and nation, must seek strategic solutions for addressing problems related to wellness,

uninsured workers, business and agency costs of healthcare, and new technologies and

treatments to improve health while controlling costs.

Health status of Southwest Indiana residents is below the national level.

Residents lack access to quality care.


More emphasis is needed on wellness/healthy living for both youth and adults (obesity,

smoking, etc.).

Agencies need to collaborate more effectively on community health initiatives.

Smoking is an ongoing health issue in Southwest Indiana; the area has had a high rate of

smoking, however local governments have become much more aggressive in passing

smoking-ban legislation.

Many businesses do not offer health care plans, or need assistance to improve health

care options for employees.

University research in health-related issues could lead to business development.

This area has a higher rate of cancer and heart disease.

This area is known as a difficult environment for people with allergies.

The Midwest in general has a high rate of obesity.

Infrastructure Problems and Opportunities

Infrastructure improvements are needed to support economic growth, from roads and rail to

broadband, water distribution, and energy.

Infrastructure maintenance and improvement is an ongoing funding challenge, and is

not keeping pace with the region’s growth.

Southwest Indiana has significant transportation and logistics assets, but they are not

connected strategically and efficiently.

Broadband access is lacking in many areas of Southwest Indiana.

Southwest Indiana needs a central assessment of asset weaknesses and opportunities.

Alternative energy sources are underdeveloped in Southwest Indiana.

Quality of Life Problems and Opportunities

Quality of life is a critical factor in business and workforce retention and expansion. Quality of

life includes cultural and recreational opportunities, education, housing, crime rate, and youth

activities.

Southwest Indiana possesses significant natural, historic, cultural and visitor related

assets that can be used to improve the regional economy.

Young adults and families need more quality of life services and resources.

Southwest Indiana’s high quality of life is a “best kept secret” – as it is not well

promoted.


Southwest Indiana needs more cultural diversity and openness to newcomers.

Entrepreneurs are attracted to the region’s quality of life, but need a better support

system in order to survive.

Business Innovation

Innovation will be a critical factor in business success as the region competes more in the

national and international economy. The purpose of this goal is to develop the region as a

center for innovation and design. By identifying the region as a place that welcomes

innovation, this goal will help improve the region’s quality of life and economic success.

Innovation will be one strategy for helping many of the region’s major employers who

compete with companies from developing nations.

Targeting new business prospects that are known for innovation in their industries will

help improve the region’s economy.

Established small businesses in the region can improve their competitive advantage

through innovative practices.


THE CEDS PLANNING PROCESS

The planning process to create the updated 2010 CEDS was led by the Economic Coalition of

Southwest Indiana (EDC). The organization worked with Strategic Development Group, Inc.

(SDG) to research and analyze current data, to collect information on new projects, facilitate

planning sessions with the CEDS Committee, and to assist the EDC in preparing written drafts of

the CEDS document.

The EDC collected projects from every county and incorporated community in the four-county

region. The projects included a wide range of topics:

Business Development

Disaster Mitigation and Prevention

Downtown Revitalization

Emergency Management

Energy

Facilities

Housing

Parks

Planning

Road

Sewer

Sidewalk Improvement

Telephone

Transportation

Water

The CEDS Committee with approximately 40 members represented virtually every sector of the

community – from economic and community development to education and government.

The planning process included meetings with EDC staff, the LEDO Committee, and the CEDS

Committee, with follow-up on individual questions from committee members by the EDC staff.

SDG facilitated two meetings with the LEDO Committee and two half-day planning sessions

with the CEDS Committee. Copies of CEDS Committee planning session agendas and reports

are in the appendix to this document.


Vision for the Region

The regional vision statement is intended to drive all CEDS activity. The vision will serve as a

touchstone for each goal and strategic activity. The vision is:

By 2020 the quality of life and economic success of Southwest Indiana will

be equal to its peer regions across the country. The region will have a

competitive workforce, a set of employers that are innovative, and

communities whose quality of life attracts new residents.

The CEDS Committee will convene periodically to review CEDS activities from the perspective of

the vision. The CEDS Committee will specifically compare Southwest Indiana’s peer regions for

each benchmark. Some CEDS Committee members have indicated an interest in visiting those

benchmark regions to learn how other areas are managing quality of life and economic success.

CEDS Goals

The CEDS will have five major goals:

1. Encourage innovative employers.

2. Support education.

3. Improve the health of the region’s residents.

4. Develop local and regional infrastructure.

5. Build a higher-skilled workforce through life-long-learning.

Collectively, the goals will help move Southwest Indiana toward its vision of the future.


Action Strategies

Goal One: Encourage Innovative Employers

Innovation will be a critical factor in business success as the region competes more in the

national and international economy. The purpose of this goal is to develop the region as a

center for innovation and design. By identifying the region as a place that welcomes

innovation, this goal will help improve the region’s quality of life and economic success.

Action Strategy One: Incorporate business innovation as a key concept in every aspect of the

region’s economic development operations.

Initiative One: Assist established employers to increase their innovation.

Initiative Two: Target new business recruitment prospects that have significant

innovative strategies.

Initiative Three: Offer innovation strategies to small businesses.

Suggested Action Steps

1. Discuss the creation of a business innovation council with regional business leaders.

2. Create a system for identifying business innovation.

3. Begin to position the region as a place that welcomes innovation.

4. Identify innovative established employers - regardless of size and business sector.

5. Target 100 new business prospects based, in part, on their level of innovation.

2010 – 2011 Priorities

Form the business innovation council.

Create a system for identifying business innovation.

Identify innovative established employers.


Goal Two: Support Education

Action Strategy Two: Support education as a core component in both quality of life and

business development.

Initiative Four: Create a strategy to bring post-secondary basic research to regional

educational institutions.

Initiative Five: Convene a regional educational roundtable.

Initiative Six: Support Educational innovations.

Initiative Seven: Create a partnership to communicate value of education to parents.


1. Form the regional education-business roundtable to support educational achievement

and to promote the importance of continued education.

2. Work with the region’s post-secondary educational institutions and business leaders to

develop a plan to increase the post-secondary research performed in the region.

3. Develop an incentive fund to support and reward innovations in education at all levels.


Develop the education-business roundtable.

Inventory the basic research performed in the region by educational institutions and

business.

Develop a set of metrics to evaluate educational attainment in the region.


Goal Three: Improve the Health of the Region’s Residents

Action Strategy Three: Improve the health of the region’s residents.

Initiative Eight: Identify the current health of regional residents through the use of a

matrix of health issues.

Initiative Nine: Develop a set of health outcomes.

Initiative Ten: Reducing smoking and obesity.

Initiative Eleven: Form a hospital CEO advisory group.

Initiative Twelve: Collaborate with businesses and workers.

Initiative Thirteen: Develop pedestrian friendly infrastructure.


1. Hold a series of small group meetings with the region’s healthcare professionals to

discuss taking a structural approach to improving the region’s health.

2. Meet with hospital CEOs to discuss forming the advisory group.

3. Review and evaluate models for smoking reduction in the workplace.

4. Create a task force to work on greenways projects with the Metropolitan Planning

Organization.

5. Develop a public relations campaign on the benefits of improved health.


Create the hospital CEO advisory group.

Create the public relations plan.


Goal Four: Develop local and Regional Infrastructure

Action Strategy Four: Develop local and regional infrastructure to support future growth in

population and industry.

Initiative Fourteen: Work with each community and county on its priority infrastructure

projects.

Initiative Fifteen: Identify and prioritize regional greenways projects.

Initiative Sixteen: Create a joint task force between the Economic Development

Coalition and the Metropolitan Planning Organization to monitor regional infrastructure

projects that are in the planning or pre-planning stage.


1. Hold county-level infrastructure meetings to monitor changes in project priorities.

2. Create an EDC subcommittee to work on regional greenways projects.

3. Begin discussions with the Metropolitan Planning Organization regarding establishing

the joint regional task force.


Establish the regional greenways subcommittee.

Begin discussions with the Metropolitan Planning Organization on the joint regional task

force.


Goal Five: Build a Higher-Skilled Workforce Through Life-Long Learning

Action Strategy Five: Build a higher-skilled workforce by encouraging and supporting life-

long-learning.

Initiative Seventeen: Form a life-long-learning partnership with key business, education,

labor, and workforce development organizations.

Initiative Eighteen: Work with established regional businesses and workers on a

continued education and training strategy.

Initiative Nineteen: Create a regional life-long-learning strategy.


1. Review the findings of the recent WIRED planning effort.

2. Begin discussions with the regional workforce board about a life-long-learning strategy.

3. Research current worker learning programs in the region.

4. Identify incumbent worker continued learning best practice models.

5. Convene a regional life-long-learning summit.


Review the WIRED project findings.

Begin discussions with the regional workforce board regarding a life-long-learning

strategy.

Research current worker learning programs in the region.

Identify best practice models.


Performance Measures

The Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana (EDC) will have the primary

responsibility for monitoring and evaluating the progress of the 2010 Comprehensive Economic

Development Strategy.

The monitoring and evaluation process will include the following activities:

An EDC staff person will monitor all action strategies on a monthly basis.

The CEDS Committee, a group of approximately 40 people representing the broad

spectrum of the region, will meet annual to review the progress of the regional strategy

and to make recommendations for change.

The CEDS Committee will review the CEDS progress by the following criteria:

o Were Action Strategies implemented?

o Which initiatives were implemented?

o Were the action steps recommended for 2010 – 2011 undertaken?

o What progress was made on last year’s priorities?

o What were the obstacles that were encountered?

o What work is on-going?

o What changes should be made to facilitate progress next year?

The CEDS Committee will also evaluate the progress of the CEDS in terms of the

improvement in terms of:

o Quality of Life:

What new infrastructure projects that improve quality of life were

implemented?

What improvements in the region’s health have been made?

What improvements in the region’s education levels and access to life-

long learning have been made?

What improvements in regional income have been made?

o Business Success:

What businesses have expanded?

What businesses have relocated?

Following the annual CEDS Committee meeting, the EDC make copies of the committee

report available online and at public libraries across the region.

Appendix

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List: Gibson County

Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Oakland City 1A Water Water Meter Replacements A total replacement of all water meters in the city. $200,000 UnknownCity of Oakland City Storm Storm System ImprovementsCity of Oakland City 2 Facility Construct New Community Center/Town

HallConstruct new community center/town hall at City Park. $750,000 OCRA, LOCAL

City of Princeton 1 Road 2nd Avenue/CR 100W New Road Construction

Construct new road to open proposed industrial area on southwest side of Princeton, serve 3 existing major industries (Hansen Corporation, TISA, Toyota Boshoku), and open proposed industrial/commercial area on southwest side of Princeton to further development. New road will allow semi tractor-trailers to access industries on a road designed for such traffic. Project actively in design process at this time.

$4,600,000 INDOT, EDIT

City of Princeton 2 Wastewater Toyota Lift Station Improvements Reconstruct major lift station that serves Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Indiana. Project will be constructed in 2010.

$550,000 Gibson County TIF

City of Princeton 3 Parks & Recreation Multi-Use Trail (Phase I) Phase I of a six-phase trail will start being designed in the spring of 2010.

$600,000 INDOT, EDIT

City of Princeton 4 Housing Elimination/Revitalization of Abandoned/Foreclosed Structures

City will deal with issues related to abandoned and foreclosed structures.

$15,000 Demolition of Buildings Fund

City of Princeton 5 Downtown Sidewalk Replacement Program City will replace sidewalks in the downtown area using decorative color enhancement in the concrete.

$40,000 Rainy Day Fund

City of Princeton 6 Drainage Miscellaneous Drainage Improvements City will construct community drainage improvements at problem locations throughout the community.

$40,000 Sewer & Water Utilities

City of Princeton 7 Facility Demolition of abandoned buildings Demolition of abandoned, collapsed, condemned buildings in downtown area

$1,000,000 OCRA, LOCAL

City of Princeton 8 Road Makemson Street New Road Construction

Construct new road on southwest side of Princeton to serve oldest manufacturer in Princeton, Hansen Corporation, a subsidiary of Mineba. Road will allow semi tractor-trailers to access the plant on a road designed for such traffic. Currently, semi tractor-trailers are forced to navigate a series of tight turns along a narrow road in a predominantly residential area. Project awaits funding and no activity is currently underway.

$3,000,000 TBD

Embree St. & Warnock St. RoundaboutCity of Princeton 9 Road Construct a new roundabout near the North Gibson School Corporation and Gibson County Fairgrounds. Project will use federal-aid highway funding and an application for those funds will be made in calendar year 2010.

$1,000,000 INDOT, EDIT


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Princeton 10 Road Southern Crossing New Road & Bridge

ConstructionConstruct new road and overpass on southwest side of Princeton to open proposed industrial area on southwest side of Princeton and serve 3 existing major industries. Overpass will be constructed over CSX Railroad due to high rail traffic at proposed crossing. Project awaits funding and no activity is currently underway.

$14,000,000 TBD

City of Princeton 11 Wastewater Wastewater Master Plan Update City will prepare an update to the Wastewater Master Plan in the near future.

$20,000 OCRA Planning Grant

City of Princeton 12 Parks & Recreation New Swimming Pool at Lafayette Park City will need to reconstruct the pool at Lafayette Park. $1,000,000 TBD

City of Princeton 13 Parks & Recreation Community Center City desires to construct a Community Center. $1,000,000 TBDTown of Fort Branch 1 Sewer Sewer Improvement Project Sewer extension to Coal Mine Road and State Road 41 to

service proposed Vincennes University Extension$160,000 EDA

Town of Fort Branch 2 Road Coal Mine Road Resurfacing Resurfacing of Coal Mine Road $7,990 LocalTown of Francisco 2A Sewer Storm Drainage Improvements Rehabilitate and install storm sewers where necessary

throughout the town.$1,000,000 OCRA, IDEM

Town of Francisco 2B Water Water System Improvements Construct a new water supply system for the entire town. $4,500,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Francisco 3 Sidewalk Town Sidewalk Improvements Sidewalk improvements throughout the town. $300,000 INDOTTown of Francisco 4 EMS Francisco Fire Station Francisco Volunteer Fire Department expansion/renovation $15,000 OCRA

Town of Francisco 5 Facility Francisco Town Hall Modernization/Renovation

Modernization and installation of energy efficient updates to the Town Hall

$40,000 Unknown

Town of Francisco 6 EMS Street and Home Address Identification Install street signs at intersections and install property address numbering on homes to facilitate the County's E911 program.

$75,000 Unknown

Town of Haubstadt 1 Sewer Sewer System Improvements Slip lining of sewer lines and other measures to reduce I & I entering town's sewer system.

$1,000,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Haubstadt 2 Facility New Library Construction of a new library $700,000 OCRATown of Haubstadt 3 Road West Street and Maple Street

Intersection ImprovementWiden intersection of West Street and Maple Street, including replacement of existing storm sewers, installation of new storm sewers, and widening the existing asphalt street surface.

$35,000 INDOT

Town of Haubstadt 4 Road Gibson Street Improvements Lower the street and relocate water and sewer lines at a length of approximately 1,120 ft.

$217,076 INDOT

Town of Haubstadt 5 Road Street Repair Project Make improvements such as resurfacing streets throughout the town

$100,000 IDEM

Town of Hazleton 1 Disaster Levee Project Levee Construction on Brown Street Unknown EDATown of Owensville 1A Sewer EDA, OCRA, IDEMWastewater Collection Improvements

(Spot Lining)Spot slip lining of sewer lines. $500,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceTown of Owensville 1B Sewer Wastewater Collection Improvements Full slip lining of all sewer lines in the town's sewer system. $1,200,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Owensville 2 EMS Owensville Montgomery Township Fire Station

Construct a new fire station. $1,500,000 OCRA

Town of Owensville 3A Water Water System Upgrade Make improvements to the town's water system. $1,200,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEMTown of Owensville 3B Sewer Storm System Improvements Rehabilitate and install storm sewers where necessary

throughout the town..$300,000 OCRA, IDEM

Town of Owensville 4 Energy/Tel Town Generator Purchase Purchase a new generator for town use in emergencies. $32,000 UnknownTown of Owensville 5A Road Main Street Project Replace water lines; replace sidewalks and curbs; new storm

sewer; and mill and replace asphalt for one block of Main Street.

$200,000 INDOT

Town of Owensville 5B Road Town Curb Improvements Curb improvements throughout the town. $349,000 INDOTTown of Owensville 5C Sidewalk Sidewalk Improvements Sidewalk improvements throughout the town. $580,000 INDOTTown of Owensville 6 Water Water Well Improvements Clean the water wells and replace pumps. $125,000 IDEM, OCRATown of Owensville 7 Parks Owensville Montgomery Township Park

ImprovementsPaving on south side of REH Center and electrical work on lower field of the ballpark.

$100,000 IDNR

Town of Patoka 1A Water Water Improvements Expansion and renovation to the existing water system servicing the Town of Patoka.

$1,000,000 OCRA, IDEM

Town of Patoka 1B Storm Drainage Planning and renovation of current storm drain system for the Town of Patoka; expansion of storm drain system to areas in town without storm drain system

Unknown OCRA

Town of Patoka 2 Road Street Repair Project Make street improvements. $80,000 INDOTTown of Somerville 1 Sewer Storm Drainage Improvements Rehabilitate and install storm sewers where necessary

throughout the town.$58,000 OCRA, IDEM

Town of Somerville 2 Sidewalk Sidewalk Improvements Replace sidewalks throughout the town where necessary. $300,000 INDOT, OCRA

Town of Somerville 3 Road Street Repair Project Thirteen streets need repair/resurfacing. $210,000 INDOTTown of Somerville 4 Facility New Town Hall Construction of a new town hall. $205,000 UnknownGibson County 1A Road County Road 550E Project (from CR 400N

to CR 105S)Partially completed $650,000

Gibson County 1B Disaster Disaster Mitigation ImplementationGibson County 2 Road County Road 400S Project In process; schedule to be completed in a couple of months $860,000 Local, EDIT

Gibson County 3 Business Economic Development Business Incubator

In process $2,250,000 EDA, Local

Gibson County 4 Facility Building tear-down Oakland City Not started $75,000 DisasterGibson County 5 Road County Road 350S Project (from 350E to

550E)Not started

Gibson County 6 Facility Courthouse and Jail Energy Improvements

Energy audit, enhance heating and air and electrical 2.3 mil Indiana Energy office, local

Gibson County 7 Facility New Judicial Center Not started; Courthouse improvement


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceGibson County 8 Facility Installation of Secured Entrances in

County BuildingNot started

Gibson County 9 EMS New Emergency Operations Center Not startedGibson County 10 Disaster Gibson County EMA Equipment Purchase Not started

Gibson County 11 Downtown Courthouse Square Improvements Not startedGibson County 12 EMS Owensville-Montgomery Township Fire

StationNot started

Gibson County 13 Business Gibson County Business Development Telecommunications EDA

Gibson County 14 Disaster Home Buy-Out Project Not startedGibson County 15 Road County Road 350S Project (Bridge 137)

Gibson County 16 Disaster Flood Mitigation CoordinatorGibson County 17 Road County Road 350E ProjectGibson County 18 Road County Road 350S Project (from 100E to

350E)INDOT, EDA

Gibson County 19 Facility Community Center County-wide communty center OCRA, Local

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List: Posey County

Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Mount Vernon 1 Sewer CSO Implementation, Phase 2 Construct new force main to Wastewater Treatment Plant

and Mill Creek Lift Station Improvement. Construct new 3.5MG wet-weather storage basin, improve existing WWTP.


City of Mount Vernon 2 Housing Elimination/Revitalization of Abandoned/Foreclosed Structures

Elimination or revitalization of abandoned or foreclosed structures in the City of Mt. Vernon

$750,000 Local

City of Mount Vernon 3 Water Water Main Replacement Replacement of water mains in the City of Mt. Vernon $4,600,000 INDOT, EDITCity of Mount Vernon 4 Sidewalk Sidewalk Upgrades Upgrades to Sidewalks in the City of Mt. Vernon $600,000 INDOT, EDITCity of Mount Vernon 5 Downtown Main Street Revitalization Improvements to the main street district servicing the City of

Mt. Vernon in order to promote economic development$15,000 Demolition of Buildings Fund

City of Mount Vernon 6 Facility Swimming Pool Rehabilitation Renovation to the City swimming pool including installation of new stainless steel combination overflow gutter

$40,000 Rainy Day Fund

City of Mount Vernon 7 Road/Sewer Rebuild West Grant Street Make paving and sewer repairs and upgrades to West Grant Street.

$40,000 Sewer & Water Utilities

City of Mount Vernon 8 Parks Citywide Recreational Trail Project Construction of a citywide trail project to serve recrational purposes.

$50,000 OCRA Planning Grant

City of Mount Vernon 9 Facility New Community Center Construct new 8,000 sq. ft. community center $30,000 OCRA Planning GrantCity of Mount Vernon 10 Sewer Davis Drive Drainage Project Drainage improvements at Davis Drive $3,000,000 TBDCity of Mount Vernon 11 EMS New Police/Fire Station Construction of a new facility to house the police and fire

department$1,000,000 INDOT, EDIT

City of Mount Vernon 12 Road New Western By-Pass on S.R. 62/69 Construction of a new western by-pass on S.R. 62/S.R. 69 $14,000,000 TBD

City of Mount Vernon 13 Water Raw Water Intake Improvements Improvements to the raw water intakes in Mt. Vernon $20,000 OCRA Planning GrantCity of Mount Vernon 14 Water Mulberry Water Tower Rehabilitation Rehabilitation of the Mulberry Street Water tower $1,000,000 TBD

City of Mount Vernon 15 Facility New City Hall Construct new facility to house City Hall, offices $1,000,000 TBDCity of Mount Vernon 16 Road City Wide Paving Renovation and paving the streetsTown of Cynthiana 1 Parks Town Parks Improvement Projects Improvements to the Town Parks in Cynthiana $400,000 UnknownTown of Cynthiana 2 Storm Water Storm Water System Install storm water system on the east side of town to take

care of flooding problems.Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 3A Sewer Lift Station Retro Fit Retro fit all lift stations (5) for the capability of emergency by-pass pumping.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 3B Sewer Large Pump Purchase large pump for by-pass pumping on the large lift stations (2). Our existing 3 inch trash pump could be used on the small lift stations.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 3C Sewer New Pole Building Build new pole building to house new pump and other sewer equipment.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4A Water Replace Water Tower Gate Valve Replace gate valve at water tower with a valve that will allow throttling for tank refill.

Unknown Unknown


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceTown of Cynthiana 4B Water Demo water plant Demo water plant: building, holding tank, aerator, pressure

filter, plumbing, electrical equipment, chlorine equipment.Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4C Water Replace water plant Replace water plant with small efficient building with new plumbing, chlorine equipment, proper chlorine safety equipment, electrical equipment to operate tank level and emergency bypass, and building heat with electric or natural gas (no propane).

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4D Water Cast Iron Main Maintenance Take 4 inch cast iron main out of service on Locust St. and put existing 6 inch ductile iron main in service.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4E Water Cast Iron Main Replacements Replace: 4 inch cast iron main on Poplar St. from Main St. to South St. (2 blocks); 2 inch cast iron main on Oak St. from North St. to Church St.( 1 block); 4 inch cast iron main on Locust St. from Gum St. to Oak St. (1 block); 4 inch cast iron main on North St. from Evansville St. to Mulkey Rd. (5 blocks); 6 inch cast iron main on Walnut St. from Church St. to Cronje St. (6 blocks); 4 inch cast iron water main on Locust St. from Poplar St. to Elm St. (1 block)

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4F Water Loop Water Main Loop existing 2 inch SDR 21 water main on Plum St. with new water main on North St. (1/2 block)

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4G Water Loop Water Main Loop new water main on North St. with 6 inch Ductile iron water main on Main St. (1 block)

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4H Water Cast Iron Main Maintenance Take 2 inch cast iron main out of service in alley from Greely St. to Garfield St. Replace 4 inch cast iron main on Church St. from Gordon St. to Greely St.(2blocks). Customers that used to be hooked up to the water main in the alley from Greely St. to Garfield St. will be hooked up to new water main on Church St. and existing 6 inch C900 water main on North St.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4I Water Fire Hydrant Replacements Replace fire hydrants at Poplar St. and Locust St., Walnut St. and Joubert St., Walnut St. and Cronje St., and North St. and Mulkey Rd.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4J Water Gate Valve Installation at Fire Hydrant Install gate valve in front of existing fire hydrant at Locust and Oak St.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4K Water Gate Valve Maintenance Dig up gate valve Evansville St. and Sheller resident and repair. (valve is over 8 foot deep).

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4L Water Water Meter Replacements Replace all meters with a wireless radio read system. This would allow us to read meters with one employee.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Cynthiana 4M Water Water Infrastructure Improvements Replace all meter pit, lids, and rings. Unknown Unknown


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceTown of Griffin 1A Water Water System Project Consturction of a new water system for the town. The town

currently uses wells.Unknown EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Griffin 1B Sewer Sewer System Project Construction of a new sewer system for the town. The town curently uses septic tanks.

Unknown EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Griffin 2 Sewer Storm Drainage Improvements Make storm drainage improvements from North Main Street to South Main Street.

Unknown Unknown

Town of Griffin 3 Road Street Repair Project Resurfacing 1.52 miles of streets in the town of Griffin. $200,000 INDOTTown of Griffin 4 Facility Construct New Town Hall Construction of new town hall. $65,000 UnknownTown of Griffin 5 Water Levee Improvements Improvements to town levee Unknown OCRATown of New Harmony 1 Sewer Sewer System Improvement Extend wastewater service lines to developments outside

Town limits.Unknown EDA, IDEM, OCRA

Town of New Harmony 2 EMS Construct New Ambulance Building Construct temperature controlled building to house ambulance.

Unknown Unknown

Town of New Harmony 3 Facility Working Men's Institute (New Harmony Library)

Historic preservation and rehabilitation of the Working Men’s Institute and handicap accessability for the library.

$600,000 OCRA

Town of New Harmony 4 Water Water Pressure Filter Plant Installation Install pressure filter plant for the water system. Unknown EDA, IDEM, OCRA

Town of New Harmony 5 Facility Construct Downtown Public Restrooms Construct public restrooms in downtown area. Unknown Unknown

Town of New Harmony 6 Parks Riverfront Trail Expansion Expand riverfront trail around the Town. Unknown IDNRTown of New Harmony 7 Parks Develop Hamonie State Park Bike Trail Develop a bike trail to Harmonie State Park. Unknown IDNR

Town of New Harmony 8 Energy/Tel Gas Line Relocation Remove gas line from Wabash Bridge and bury it under the river.

Unknown Unknown

Town of New Harmony 9 Water Storm Water Project Unknown OCRATown of Poseyville 1 Road Sidewalks, Curbs and Street

ImprovementsReplace sidewalks, curbs and make street improvements throughout the town where necessary.

$600,000 INDOT, OCRA

Town of Poseyville 2 Water Refurbish Existing Water Tower Refurbish the existing water tower. $75,000 IDEM, OCRATown of Poseyville 3 Facility Construct New Town Hall/Utility Shop Construction of a new town hall and utility shop. $300,000 Unknown

Posey County 1 Road Modifications of High School Road Located in Posey County, Indiana

Widening of High School Road, a county road from State Road 165 to North Posey Junior/Senior High School to improve safety of travel to/from this school location.

$1,000,000 INDOT, EDA

Posey County 2 Road Completion of the Western Connector Connecting State Road 69 North of Mt. Vernon with State Road 62 West of Mt. Vernon

Connection between economic development areas located on the western and eastern portions of Mt. Vernon and Posey County to provide infrastruct improvements for access to Interstate 64 in Northern Posey County.

$10,000,000 INDOT, EDA


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourcePosey County 3 Road Lamont Road (County Road 400 E)

Extension Improvement from Intersection of State Road 62 and State Road 69 to Indiana Port

Alleviate congestion and improve motor safety in Mt. Vernon for future development of Port and potential industrial areas east of Mt. Vernon. Extension of Lamont Road to the Port.

$10,000,000 INDOT, EDA

Posey County 4 Disaster Flood Mitigation Coordinator Fund a Flood Mitigation Coordinator position to identify potential projects.

$75,000 EDA

Posey County 5 Disaster Disaster Mitigation Implementation Implementation of 2008 disaster mitigation projects (construction/housing) as identified by the Disaster Recovery Strategic Plan.

$75,000 EDA, OCRA

Posey County 6 Disaster Flood Mitigation Home Buy-Out Project Buyout of homes south of Griffin on Black River in rural Posey County that are continually flooded due to heavy rains

Unknown FEMA, SEMA, OCRA, EDA, IHCDA

Posey County 7 Road County Road Upgrades Posey County Highway Department has established a list of upgrades for its paved county roads

$4,659,386 INDOT

Posey County 8 Road Reconstruction of Posey County Bridge #s 13, 91 & 239.

Reconstruct 3 bridges located within Posey County to meet current standards and provide safe travel for motorists.

$2,501,000 INDOT

Posey County 9 Sewer Wadesville-Blairsville Sewer District New sewer system to service the residents of the Wadesville-Blairsville Sewer District in northern Posey County

$5,000,000 OCRA, IDEM, EDA

Posey County 10 Water Big Creek Watershed Drainage Address water resources problems and flooding in the Big Creek Watershed

$3,617,469 DNR, IDEM, USArmy Corp of Engineers

Posey County 11 Energy/Tel County Phone System Upgrade Purchase county wide phone system to a voice over internet protocol system to provide current technology for the county and position it to meet future technological advances.

$125,000 Unknown

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List: Vanderburgh County

Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 1 Economic

DevelopmentMidwest Center for Innovation & Design, with Whirlpool Product Development Center

The Midwest Center for Innovation and Design will be developed on U.S. Highway 41 North near the Evansville Regional Airport on a 105-acre site being vacated by Whirlpool Corporation. Upon closure of manufacturing operations and removal of any equipment by Whirlpool, the City of Evansville will acquire and redevelop the site. The new innovation park will focus on attracting research and development and design centers to the City of Evansville and Southwest Indiana. This project empossases development of a master plan for redevelopment of the site and development of a new, state-of-the-art 66,000 sq. ft. Whirlpool Product Development Center (PDC), which will serve as the cornerstone of the innovation park.

$27,250,000 NOTE: "Midwest Center for Innovation and Design folded into this.

NOTE: "Project" must be changed to "Product"

City of Evansville 2 Transportation Slack Water Harbor Intermodal Transporation Facility

The City could potentially build and operate an intermodal transportation facility that would integrate commercial transportation via rail, water, and road. As part of any such plan, the City would seek to purchase 20 to 30 acres of flood-prone river bottomland between the Ohio River and the CSX Howell Rail Yard. The contemplated intermodal facility would have rail access via CSX and truck access through Tekoppel Avenue, which connects to S.R. 62.

$1.25 billion Private/public

City of Evansville 3 Sewer Cass Avenue Sewer Separation and Drainage Improvement Project

The project will construct new storm sewer systems to the East and West of Boeke Road along Cass Avenue and Sweetser Avenue.

$20,000,000

City of Evansville 4 Sewer Eastview Drainage Improvement Project The project will construct a new storm sewer trunkline from the K-3 Lift Station ponding area to the intersection of Michael Avenue and Margybeth Avenue. The existing trunkline would be removed. The new storm sewer would be placed along the existing sewer alignment and up-sized to provide the necessary capacity.

$7,600,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 5 Sewer Jeanette Drainage Improvement Project The project will construct a new 15-inch storm pipe along

Hicks Drive. This sewer line would drain to a 36-inch storm sewer that would run west to Jeanette Avenue. At Jeanette Avenue, the sewer would be upsized to a 60-inch storm pipe and turn south along Jeanette Avenue to Pollack Avenue. At Pollack Avenue, the line would make a small jog and continue south along Jeanette Avenue until it met Frisse Avenue. At Frisse Avenue, the 60-inch pipe would turn west, then south along Crane Avenue, and finally outlet into the Levee Authority ponding area at the K-2 Lift Station. The existing 36-inch storm line that enters the 96-inch sewer along Burdette Avenue would be plugged to prevent the sewer from surcharging into the Jeanette Avenue and Hicks Drive area.

$4,500,000

City of Evansville 6 Transportation Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage Inner Loop and Spokes

Construction of a 7.25-mile segment of the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage (resulting in a 14-mile closed urban loop); 13.08 miles of “spokes and spurs” linking the Greenway Passage to neighborhoods, schools and parks; and a pedestrian bridge over a state highway to provide essential connections between multiple recreational areas, neighborhoods and other destinations.

TBD General Fund, Private Partners, USDOT, INDOT, Others

City of Evansville 7 Economic Development

Center City Industrial Park Acquire, clear, and package parcels for future industrial and business use in the Center City Industrial Park. Assembled parcels will be used as part of an incentive package to attract future development.

$1, 370,000

City of Evansville 8 Road Center City Industrial Park (CCIP) - Infrastructure

Realign intersections to provide better ingress/egress and flow for truck traffic accessing the industries in the area. Improvements to entrances to the area will increase safety by providing better visibility at street corners.

$379,000

City of Evansville 9 Technology Community-Wide Wireless Broadband Network

A community-wide wireless broadband network project presents a compelling opportunity to provide enhanced wireless communication services throughout the City of Evansville.

$7,000,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 10 Parks Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage -

Industrial Corridor Phases 3 & 4 - Pedestrian/Bicycle Trail

The Industrial Corridor Phase 3 continues the Greenway Passage from Phase 2 and follows along the Pigeon Creek levee to Louisiana Street, connecting with the Center City Industrial Park. The Industrial Corridor Phase 4 has been redesigned to follow the existing levee and follow in front of Fliegeltaub Salvage along Grove Street. The two phases combined are one-half mile.

$3,550,000

City of Evansville 11 Facility Alhambra Theatre and Support Buildings Renovation

Exterior and interior complete rehabilitation and reinterpretation of an adaptive reuse that guarantees economic viability and full use by the public of the historic, iconic Alhambra Theatre and its neighboring, complementary structures.

$3,497,451

City of Evansville 12 Streetscape Front Door Pride Neighborhood Street and Streetscape Improvement

This project would replace lighting, sidewalks, streets, curbs and gutters in the Front Door Pride target area. Construction could begin as early as October or November 2010.

$4,300,000 CDBG, HOME

City of Evansville 13 Downtown Downtown Parking Garages Restoration Five-year reinvestment plan into the City’s parking garage structures to upgrade, repair and improve the safety of each of the three structures.

$6,316,900

City of Evansville 14 Downtown Economic Development Initiatives/Incentives for Arts District

Creation of an incentives package that will attract additional reinvestment to the Evansville Arts District at Haynie’s Corner.

$4,397,860 NOTE: Arts District not in Central Business District. Near downtown, but not technically in it.

City of Evansville 15 Water Kratzville Road Water Main Replacement Project

Replace and install approximately 19,000 feet of 12" water mains. These mains will replace aging cast iron 8" water mains that break frequently. The City is also receiving numerous complaints from customers regarding water quality isues that this project will correct. Fire protection and flows will improve along the entire route as well.

$3,524,200

City of Evansville 16 Sewer Diamond Avenue Drainage Improvements - Phase II

Provides drainage relief and separation of storm water from the combined sewer system through the installation of a large diameter storm sewer in the area approximately bounded by Diamond Avenue, Heidelbach Avenue, Olmstead Avenue and Stringtown Road that would connect to the recently completed Diamond Avenue storm sewer tunnel.

$2,800,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 17 Sewer State Hospital Lakes Drainage

ImprovementsProject involves increasing the storage capacity of the lakes at the Evansville State Hospital. In conjunction with recently completed improvements, provides drainage relief to the residential areas along Colony Road between Lincoln Avenue and Bellemeade Avenue.

$585,000

City of Evansville 18 Sewer Diamond Avenue Drainage Improvements - Phase III

Provides drainage relief and separation of storm water from the combined sewer system through the installation of a large diameter storm sewer in the area approximately bounded by Diamond Avenue, Evans Avenue, Maxwell Avenue and Heidelbach Avenue that would connect to the recently completed Diamond Avenue storm sewer tunnel.

$2,900,000

City of Evansville 19 Sewer Diamond Avenue Drainage Improvements - Phase IV

Provides drainage relief and separation of storm water from the combined sewer system through the installation of a large diameter storm sewer in the area approximately bounded by Diamond Avenue, Evans Avenue, Maxwell Avenue and Fares Avenue that would connect to the recently completed Diamond Avenue storm sewer tunnel.

$4,900,000

City of Evansville 20 Sewer Diamond Avenue Drainage Improvements - Phase I

Provides drainage relief and separation of storm water from the combined sewer system through the installation of a large diameter storm sewer in the area approximately bounded by Diamond Avenue, Heidelbach Avenue, Olmstead Avenue and Stringtown Road that would connect to the recently completed Diamond Avenue storm sewer tunnel.

$2,800,000

City of Evansville 21 Sewer Weinbach/Boeke/Lloyd Drainage Improvements

Project will alleviate long-standing drainage problems near the intersection of Division Street (Lloyd Expressway) and Boeke Road through the installation of a large diameter storm sewer that will be connected to the Weinbach Avenue storm sewer tunnel completed in 2000.

$1,600,000

City of Evansville 22 Sewer Weinbach/Keck Drainage Improvements Provides drainage relief and separation of storm water from the combined sewer system through the installation of storm sewers in the area approximately bounded by Diamond Avenue, Weinbach Avenue, U.S. 41 and State Route 62 (Morgan Avenue) that would connect to the Weinbach Avenue storm sewer tunnel completed in 2000.

$1,100,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 23 Downtown Downtown Hotel Construction Funds to incent the construction of a downtown hotel and

possible connector/skywalk between existing structures. $10,000,000

City of Evansville 24 Parks African Exhibit Area This engaging multi-species area at the Mesker Park Zoo will display birds, reptiles, large primates, carnivores, herbivores, and some fish surrounded by lush plant life.

$15,000,000

City of Evansville 25 Sewer Septic Tank Elimination on Mt. Auburn The Mt. Auburn Neighborhood topography consists of steep highland and floodplains. This topography has led to the potential of on-site wastewater system failures. The new sanitary sewer system will eliminate all existing on-site systems and will convey the existing wastewaters to existing wastewater treatment plants.

$3,000,000

City of Evansville 26 Sewer Septic Tank Elimination on Cave Avenue Construction of a gravity sewer and lift station to service 100 homes on failing septic systems on the west side of Evansville.

$3,200,000

City of Evansville 27 Sewer Septic Tank Elimination on Fickas Road Construction of a gravity sewer and lift station to service twelve homes on failing septic systems on the east side of Evansville.

$1,250,000

City of Evansville 28 Road Downtown Traffic Signalization Modernization Project - Phase 2

Includes upgrading 31 intersections and installing new traffic signals; decorative poles and mast arms; equipment to utilize the new Broadband canopy for signal control; street name signs; new pedestrian signals; handicapped accessible ramps; sidewalk treatments; and drainage inlets. Construction on Phase 1 will begin in July 2010 with existing funding. Additional funding will enable the City to upgrade an additional 12 intersections.

$1,800,000

City of Evansville 29 Transportation Alternative/Active Transportation Infrastructure in Arts District

Enhance the availability and utilization of alternative/active modes of transportaion to/from and within the Evansville Arts District at Haynie's Corner neighborhood by creating safe cross walks (pilot project, $500,000), bike lanes, bike racks, and walking paths, and providing multiple points of access to the Riverfront Corridor of the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage ($479,000).

$979,000 NOTE: "Pedestrian-Friendly Improvements (Crosswalks and Pedestrian Signals)" and "Bike Lanes, Paths and Racks" were combined into this one project.

City of Evansville 30 Transportation Bus replacement/hybrid Bus Purchase The Metropolitan Evansville Transit System (METS) intends to replace thirteen (13) diesel-fueled buses that have outlived their mileage and useful lives with thirteen (13 )hybrid buses.

$7,500,000 ARRA


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 31 Parks Boat Ramps Improvements - Install Pre-

cast Concrete RampsRenovate Angel Mounds and Dogtown Boat Ramps by installing new concrete ramp extensions.

$1,500,000

City of Evansville 32 Facility Old Post Office - Rehab and Renovation Funds provided will restore the façade and upgrade the interior space to ensure long-term sustainability of the business economies/realities of this historic icon.

$3,797,567

City of Evansville 33 Parks Improvements to Parks - Restroom Modifications, Sidewalks Ramps and Parking ADA

Modify and upgrade all public Park restrooms to accommodate patrons with disabilities; designate parking spaces and ensure all sidewalks have ramps for disability access.

$1,000,000

City of Evansville 34 Sidewalk Sidewalk Replacement Project utilizes the Barrett Law (IC 36-9-36) and, under a municipal ordinance adopted in 2004, enables property owners to petition the City and participate in the cost of replacing sidewalks adjacent to their property. To date, approximately 1,100 petitions for replacement have been received and approximately 50% of those requested sidewalks have been completed under this program.

$2,000,000

City of Evansville 35 Sidewalk Curb Ramp Construction Project involves the construction of curb ramps compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and arose out of a Voluntary Compliance Agreement entered into with the Federal Highway Administration in 2002 requiring the city to conduct a needs inventory and construct ramps at all public street intersections; the inventory identified approximately 6,200 needed ramps and less than 1,000 have been constructed to date.

$840,000

City of Evansville 36 Streetscape Washington Avenue Boulevard/Corridor This project will restore a once grand gateway entrance to the City along the Washington Avenue corridor. Plans call for entrance gateways and public art installations along the way as well as the planting and maintaining of a tree canopy in conjunction with the installation of a linear garden, appropriate directional and historic signage, lighting, and other public amenities along the route.

$956,343

City of Evansville 37 Economic Development

Economic Development Initiatives/Incentives for Greyhound Building and Site

These project funds provide a match incentive to restore the exterior of the former Greyhound bus station building and to ensure an appropriate use for this significant historic icon.

$2,726,341


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 38 Downtown Downtown Gateways and Way-Finding

SignageTo improve ability to navigate and locate destinations in Downtown Evansville, the City intends to create a hierarchy of gateways into Downtown and create districts with a system of way-finding signage.

$2,800,000 Unknown

City of Evansville 39 Transportation Mesker Park Drive Underpass Renovate pedestrian tunnel under Mesker Park Drive to provide safe access between Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, Mesker Park, Mesker Amphitheatre, Mesker Mall (large shelter house), Helfrich Hills Golf Course, and associated parking areas. Project includes repairing stone entryway, structural steel, electrical/lighting, and safety/security systems; and installing appropriate signage.

$125,000 New Addition

City of Evansville 40 Road Burkhardt Road Improvements (Lloyd Expressway to Lincoln Ave)

Project will alleviate vehicular congestion and improve safety through the construction of added travel lanes and associated improvements on Burkhardt Road between State Route 66 (Lloyd Expressway) and Lincoln Avenue.

$4,737,168

City of Evansville 41 Road Buena Vista Road Improvements (Fulton Ave. to East)

Project includes pavement reconstruction and improved geometrics at the intersection of Fulton Avenue and Buena Vista Road, as well as replacement of failing retaining wall structures at that intersection; also includes pavement reconstruction and related drainage improvements to Buena Vista Road several hundred feet north of Fulton Avenue.

$550,000

City of Evansville 42 Levee Rehabilitate Earthen Levee This project would rehabilitate the existing levee in Knight Township.

$1,500,000

City of Evansville 43 Water Hwy 41 & Lloyd Expressway (SR 66) Water Main Relocation Projecct

This project involves the relocation of several water mains that are going to be impacted by an INDOT road / intersection reconstruction project. It includes relocating a major transmission main as well as connecting arterial mains to prevent future water quality issues resulting from the elimination of some water mains under the new roadway.

$3,000,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 44 Water Water Filtration Plant Solids

Handling/Dewatering Alum SludgeIt is anticipated that the Indiana Department of Environmental Management will issue a NPDES discharge permit with water quality limits for various parameters. This project proposes to include dechloramination facilities for treating filter backwash and filter to waste streams prior to discharge into the Ohio River and residuals collection, settling, and pumping system for filter backwash waste and sedimentation basin sludge.

$25,000,000

City of Evansville 45 Water High Service & Low Service Pumping Improvement Project

This project includes the replacement of the 4160 volt motor starters on the low service pumps. In addition, the magnetic drive on low service pump #1 will be replaced with a variable frequency drive which will require the installation of a new control unit. The 4160 volt motor starters on the high service pumps will be replaced and the magnetic drive on high service pump #9 will be replaced with a variable frequency drive. The high and low service pumps are subject to continuous use and unreliable motor starters will adversely impact the plant’s ability to collect raw water for treatment and provide finished water to the distribution system.

$3,988,000

City of Evansville 46 Water Water Filtration Plant Primary Clarifier Rehabilitation

This project involves concrete rehabilitation of the south plant primary clarifier number 2 as well as repairs to the drive units that are currently inoperable. These repairs are necessary in order to maintain the filtration plant capacity.

$539,300

City of Evansville 47 Water Circuit Breaker Replacement Project This project includes performance of an inventory throughout the filtration plant to identify faulty or failing 220 volt and 480 volt circuit breakers and the replacement of the selected breakers as recommended. The plant equipment is subject to continuous use and unreliable circuit breakers adversely impact the plant’s ability to treat water for public use.

$252,000

City of Evansville 48 Water On-line Water Quality Monitoring Project This project involves the replacement of the existing on-line water quality monitoring equipment with more updated modes for improved monitoring capabilities. The work will include the installation of new turbidimeters, chlorine analyzers, pH sensors and monitors at all of the storage tank and pump station locations.

$250,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 49 Water Chlorinator Replacement This project involves the replacement of three existing aging

chlorinators with modern equipment that is more reliable and will reduce the risk of failure to supply correct chlorine dosages to the treatment process.

$92,000

City of Evansville 50 Water Christ Road & Kerth Ave Neighborhood Water Main Replacement Project

This project consists of approximately 1,700 feet of 8” water main located on Christ Rd from Kerth to Fares and Kerth Ave. from St. George Rd. to Christ Rd. This project will replace an existing 4” main that is in poor shape and breaks several times a year. This project will not only solve operations and maintenance issues but it will greatly improve the fire protection around the area.

$240,000

City of Evansville 51 Water Vanderburgh Neighborhood Water Main Replacement Project

This project consists of approximately 3,700 feet of 8” water main located on Vanderburgh, Evergreen, and Kentucky Ave. This project will provide increased fire protection and replace 2” and 4” mains that are in poor shape and break frequently. This project will improve water quality, eliminated 4” transite pipe and eliminate a section of water main that is currently exposed to the atmosphere.

$540,000

City of Evansville 52 Water Hogue Road Water Main Replacement This project consists of approximately 2,800 feet of 8” water main located on Hogue Road between North Rosenberger Ave and Red Bank Rd. This project will replace an existing 8” water main that is in poor shape and breaks several times a year. The project will also provide increased fire protection to the area by improving flows.

$390,000

City of Evansville 53 Water Frey Road Water Main Replacement Project

This project consists of approximately 2,000 feet of 8” water main located on Frey Rd north of Broadway Ave. This project will address fire protection as well as water quality issues that are currently experienced in that area.

$260,000

City of Evansville 54 Water Whetstone / Cherry Lane Neighborhood Water Main Replacement Project

This project consists of approximately 7,800 feet of 8” water main located on Whetstone, Cherry Lane, and Maple Lane. This project will provide increased fire protection and replace existing 4” Transite water mains. Water quality will be improved and operations and maintenance costs will be reduced

$900,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 55 Water Western Terrace Water Main

Replacement ProjectThis project consists of approximately 9,400 feet of 8” water main located in the Western Terrace development. This project will improve water quality, provide increased fire protection, and reduce operations and maintenance expenditures.

$1,200,000

City of Evansville 56 Water Virginia Ave Water Main Replacement Avenue

This project consists of approximately 1,600 feet of 8” water main located on Virginia Ave from Kelsey Ave to Boeke Rd. This project will improve water quality, provide increased fire protection and reduce operations and maintenance expenditures.

$290,000

City of Evansville 57 Water Flow Meter Project This project includes the installation of flow meters on the low service supply as well as the filter effluent lines. This will improve process control as well as enhance the reliability and value of the plant’s recorded operational data.

$200,000

City of Evansville 58 Water Schaller Lane Water Main Replacement Project

This project consists of approximately 1,600 feet of 8” water main located on Pfeiffer Rd to Schaller Lane. This project will improve water quality, provide increased fire protection and reduce operations and maintenance expenditures.

$110,000

City of Evansville 59 Water SCADA Improvements This project involves the completion of the installation of the SCADA branch system to monitor and control the chemical feed systems at the filtration plant. This will improve process control, water quality and reduce manpower requirements.

$200,000

City of Evansville 60 Water Abandoned Equipment Removal This project includes the removal of abandoned equipment from the filtration plant. Over the years, various pieces of equipment have been decommissioned or abandoned in place due to age or failure and these items should be removed from the plant site to promote efficient use of space to eliminate potential operational hazards.

$200,000


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 61 Water Allens Lane Backup Generator This project is to install a backup generator to provide

emergency power to the Operations Center for the Water and Sewer Utility. Currently, during storm events, the Operations Center is susceptible to power outages eliminating all phone and computer activity. The Water and Sewer Utility is not able to receive emergency calls from customers or workers nor can the dispatchers access digital records which are critical to performing most work activities. Storm events create huge workloads for the Utility and if the Operations Center is not able to function to full capacity it has adverse affects on the entire city.

$280,000

City of Evansville 62 Wastewater East Treatment Plant Headworks Improvements

Installation of a Parkson Aqua Guard bar screen, 215 H.P. Flygt submersible pump and two replacement Smith & Loveless grit pumps. The project will allow the headworks to treat flow equal to the plant’s secondary capacity, thereby allowing the facility to treat additional wet weather flow

$1,500,000

City of Evansville 63 Wastewater Planning/Project Development for Overflow Control Program

Planning, condition and capacity assessment, preliminary engineering and alternatives analysis work in developing an integrated overflow control plan to address remedial measures related to overflows in the combined sewer system and any chronic overflow points identified in the separate sanitary sewer system.

$4,700,000

City of Evansville 64 Wastewater Centrifigal Blowers for East and West Plants

Replacement of four rotary lobe blowers at the East and West plants with energy efficient centrifugal blowers. In addition to operational cost savings, the new blowers will allow better air flow and control of the plants’ biological processes.

$2,000,000

City of Evansville 65 Streetscape Fulton Avenue/Riverside Drive Streescape Enhancements

The City intends to improve and enhance Fulton Avenue south of the Lloyd Expressway and continuing southeast along Riverside Drive to create a continuous boulevard streetscape. These improvements will create a secondary gateway into Downtown at Second Street, which will flow through the American General Finance campus, where a new headquarters building was completed in 2009.

$5,300,000 State


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceCity of Evansville 66 Downtown Signage - Street Signs, Historic and Arts

Markers and District Identifications SignsCreation and installation of appropriate historic way-finding signs, including street signs, historic and arts markers, and arts district identification signs in the historic district as well as those corridors into and out of the district.

$657,789

City of Evansville 67 Facility C.K. Newsome Community Center Renovation

The current community center is in need of the following upgrades in order to provide for the community: ceiling titles, flooring, windows, doors, high efficiency lighting for interior and exterior, new roof, control software program for HVAC system, and new chiller.

$600,000

City of Evansville 68 Parks Kleymeyer Softball Complex - Sports Renovation

The softball fields, backstops, dugouts, parking lot and concession stand/restrooms need to be renovated to accommodate adult sport leagues.

$350,000

City of Evansville 69 Parks Conservation Education and Community Outreach Building

The plant and animal collection at Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden (MPZBG) is a most-engaging vehicle for teaching, engaging and motivating people to protect, conserve and nurture their environment. By 2013, MPZBG seeks to double its educational capacity from 23,000 to 50,000 educational encounters per year by adding a building that will house CECO. The CECO building will have traditional and distance learning classrooms, a lecture hall, multi-purpose room, laboratories, offices, meeting rooms, and catering capacity.

$5,000,000

City of Evansville 70 Facility Eco Depot - Rehabilitation/Renovation Exterior building refurbishment, installation of shelving, upgrade of electrical, plumbing, HVAC services, door and window repairs/upgrades, exterior sheds with racks, and security of perimeter and building.

$437,000

City of Evansville 71 Downtown Green Alley - Expand on Pilot Project Create accessible nodes of “green alley” infrastructure improvements within Downtown and the Arts District.

$567,000

City of Evansville 72 Road Reopening Parret Street The City of Evansville, IN intends to reopen Parrett Street between Washington Avenue and Adams Avenue to reinstate the street as a thoroughfare and create additional street frontage along a “dead” block. The additional frontage is necessary to make the reinvestment on the whole block possible

$1,179,340

Town of Darmstadt 1 Downtown Darmstadt Square Purchase/Renovation Purchase and renovation of the Darmstadt Town Square. $500,000 Unknown


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceTown of Darmstadt 2 Facility Town Hall/Maintenance Building

ImprovementsUpgrade building and storage area within building, including concrete pouring and expansion so Town equipment can be stored inside.

$250,000 Unknown

Town of Darmstadt 3 Road Martin Road and Railroad Street Improvements

Re-pave Martin Road and Railroad Street $200,000 INDOT

MPO2035 Road University Parkway (Section A2- Phase 1) Upper Mt. Vernon Road to Marx Road - Under Construction $7,489,002 Federal/Local

MPO2035 Road Green River Road C-1, C-2, C-3 (all are part of same project)

Lynch Road to Millersburg Road - Under Construction $26,128,495 Local

MPO2035 Road University Parkway (Section A2- Phases 2 & 3) including new bridge

Marx Road to SR 66 $9,160,750 Federal/Local

MPO2035 Road Oak Hill Road Lynch Road to SR 57 $15,016,295 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Green River Road Millersburg Road to Kansas $5,850,000 Local

Road Green River Road Kansas to SR 57 $12,235,000 LocalMPO2035 Road US 41 SR 66/Diamond Avenue to Mt. Pleasant Road $85,000,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road University Parkway (Section B1) SR 66 to Boonville-New-Harmony Road $57,554,967 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Millersburg Road Oak Hill Road to I-164 $6,210,000 LocalVanderburgh County 1A Disaster Disaster Mitigation Implementation Implementation of 2008 disaster mitigation projects

(construction/housing) as identified by the Disaster Recovery Strategic Plan

Unknown OCRA, EDA

Vanderburgh County 1B Business Berry Plastic Corporation Manufacturing Expansion

Expansion of thermoforming operations to increase manufacturing capacity with targeted startup in Q1 2010, including capital investment in building and equipment of approximately $80 million in first 3 years, creating 150+ new jobs.

$60,000,000 New Market Tax Credits, Economic Development Administration Funds

Vanderburgh County 1C Disaster Flood Mitigation Coordinator Vanderburgh County

Fund a Flood Mitigation Coordinator position to identify potential projects

$75,000 EDA

Vanderburgh County 2 Road First Avenue Bridge over Pigeon Creek Construct 30’ bridge on south side of existing First Avenue bridge over Pigeon Creek, and the construction of new 45’ bridge on north side of existing bridge to address settlement problems associated with poor soil conditions adjacent to the existing bridge. Also lay a concrete deck overlay on existing bridge. First Avenue is a major arterial roadway in Evansville, carrying 21,000+ vehicles per day. Construction will begin in May 2010

$1,396,400 LOCAL

Vanderburgh County 3 Road University Parkway Construct 1.25 mile extension of new 4-lane limited access highway between Upper Mt. Vernon Road and Marx Road in western Vanderburgh County. Under construction

$7,489,002 INDOT/LOCAL


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceVanderburgh County 4 Parks Burdette Park – USI Bike Path

ConstructionConstruct bike/pedestrian trail between Univ. of Southern Indiana and Burdette Park. This is an extension of a trail completed by Vanderburgh County in Burdette Park in 2007. Phase 1: Burdette Park to Broadway Avenue, Phase 2: Broadway Avenue to USI campus. Phase 2 under construction

$2,257,000 INDOT/LOCAL

Vanderburgh County 5 Road Interstate 164 – Millersburg Road Interchange

New interchange at the intersection of Millersburg Road and Interstate 164.

$16,000,000 INDOT

Vanderburgh County 6 Road Interchange Modifications at the Lloyd Expressway – University Parkway Interchange

Reconstruct existing interchange at Lloyd Expressway and University Parkway to alleviate existing traffic problems resulting from high volume of left turns entering University of Southern Indiana. This project would remedy these problems by constructing a loop ramp in the northwest quadrant of the interchange, eliminating left turn movements at existing westbound off ramp.

$15,000,000 INDOT

Vanderburgh County 7 Road Rehabilitation of Maryland Street Bridge over Pigeon Creek

Replacement of beams and deck on existing bridge structure, which carries approximately 5,300 vehicles per day.

$1,100,000 LOCAL

Vanderburgh County 8 Road Millersburg Road Widen Millersburg Road to three lanes from Oak Hill Road to Interstate 164.

$6,210,000 LOCAL

Vanderburgh County 9 Housing Housing Infrastructure in Support of New Housing at Jacob’s Village

Improve infrastructure in support of senior and adult disabled housing, including road improvements, sewer, water, and a Commons Building for the residents.

$500,000 OCRA

Vanderburgh County 10 Disaster Government Diaster Recovery Provide space for continued operation for city/county government during emergency/disaster.

$1,500,000 FEMA/SEMA

Vanderburgh County 11 Facility Parking Garage/Inmate Holding Facility Provide additional 460 parking spaces for Civic Center tenants/visitors and holding area for inmates awaiting trials.

$7,500,000 Unknown

Vanderburgh County 12 Facility Old Courthouse Parking Provide additional parking of approximately 60 parking places around the perimeter of Old Courthouse for visitors and tenants

$800,000 Unknown

Vanderburgh County 13 Facility Civic Center Parking Provide additional surface parking on Sycamore and Locust Streets adjacent to Civic Center for tenants and visitors

$250,000 Unknown

Vanderburgh County 14 Facility Additional Holding Cells Provide additional inmate holding cells at the Vanderburgh County Detention and Corrections Facility

$8,000,000 Unknown

Vanderburgh County 15 Facility Sally Port Holding Cell Provide secure facility for transport bus and holding of inmates

$1,000,000 Unknown


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceVanderburgh County 16 Facility Office Space Expansion in Former Jail Provide needed additional office space and conference room

capacity for City and County Government in the space that was formerly used as Vanderburgh County Jail.

$8,700,000 Unknown

Vanderburgh County 17 Facility Civic Center Roof Replacement Replace 20-year-old roofs on Civic Center Complex $700,000 UnknownMPO2035 Road Epworth Road SR 66 (Lloyd Expwy.) to Telephone Road $10,192,000 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Lincoln Avenue (Section Western county line to Grimm Road $3,000,000 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road SR 62 (Phase III) 0.2 miles west of Boonville to Locust Street $5,043,000 Federal/State

MPO2035 Road SR 66 (Phase II) SR 261 to French Island Trail $16,888,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road I-69 I-64 to SR 68 $89,409,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road Burkhardt Road Lincoln Avenue to SR 66/Lloyd Expressway $3,273,216 LocalMPO2035 Road Oak Hill Road Pigeon Creek to Lynch Road $6,175,969 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Maxx Road Lynch Road to Oak Hill Road $350,000 LocalMPO2035 Road US 41 - Lloyd Expressway Interchange

ModificationInterchange Modification to add loops & ramps $27,739,000 Federal/State

MPO2035 Road Lincoln Avenue (Section 2) Grimm Road to Bell Road $5,061,888 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Lincoln Avenue (Section 3) Bell Road to SR 261 $4,106,204 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Oak Grove Road (Section 1) East of I-164 to Libbert Road $3,438,000 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road SR 61 Connector Road (Boonville Bypass) SR 62 to 4 miles north of SR 62 $12,703,000 Federal/State

MPO2035 Road SR 62 (Phase II) Sixth Street in Chandler to 0.2 miles west of Boonville $35,338,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road SR 66 (Phase III) French Island Trail to Yankeetown Rd. $29,482,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road SR 261 SR 66 to Oak Grove Rd; Oak Grove Rd to Jenner Rd $18,701,000 Federal/StateMPO2035 Road Claremont Avenue Red Bank Road to Barker Avenue $4,764,078 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Red Bank Road Broadway Avenue to Upper Mount Vernon Road $8,504,777 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Bell Road SR 66 to Oak Grove Road $5,769,925 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Bell Road Oak Grove Road to Telephone Road $6,464,595 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Millersburg Road/Heim Road I-164 to SR 62 $22,566,914 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Oak Grove Road (Section 2) Libbert Road to Bell Road $6,552,250 Federal/LocalMPO2035 Road Oak Grove Road (Section 3) Bell Road to SR 261 $8,831,385 Federal/Local

Southwest Indiana CEDS Capital Projects List: Warrick County

Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding Source

City of Boonville 1 Downtown Courthouse Square Reconstruction Reconstruct parking area, sidewalks, and wall around the perimeter of Boonville Downtown Courthouse square

$370,000 INDOT, OCRA

City of Boonville 2 Sewer Sewer System Improvements $7,000,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEMCity of Boonville 3 Building Building Demolition Demolition of collapsed, condemned structures Unknown UnknownTown of Chandler 1A Water Water System Mapping GIS mapping of water system mains, valves and hydrants. $250,000 EDA, IDEM

Town of Chandler 1B Water Water Distribution System Improvements Water main upgrades, main extensions and looping of dead ends.


Town of Chandler 2 Water Wastewater Collection System Rehabilitation

Repair/replace collection system mains to reduce inflow and infiltration.


Town of Chandler 3 Fire Firehouse Addition Construction of addition for existing firehouse. $750,000 OCRATown of Chandler 4 Parks Sports Park Facility Construction of recreation facility to support existing

Community Center and ball field.$750,000 INDR

Town of Chandler 5 s Parks Sports Park Multi-Function Field Construction of a multi-use field to support existing Sports Park fields.

$100,000 INDR

Town of Chandler 6 Sidewalk State St. Sidewalk/Drainage Project Approximately 2,900 feet of curb/guttering and sidewalk along State Street.

$125,000 OCRA

Town of Chandler 7 Sidewalk William St. Sidewalk/Drainage Project Approximately 3,000 feet of curb/guttering and sidewalk along William Street.

$250,000 OCRA

Town of Chandler 8 Building Town Hall Project Construction of new Town Hall. $750,000 UnknownTown of Elberfeld 1 Sewer Sewer System Improvements Slip lining of sewer lines and other measures to reduce I & I

from entering town sewer system.$1,200,000 EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Elberfeld 2 Road Street Repair Project Make street improvements. $30,000 INDOTTown of Elberfeld 3 Water New Water Sales Bilding Construction of a new water sales building. $7,000 UnknownTown of Elberfeld 4 Downtown Town Hall Grounds Improvements Make improvements to the grounds surrounding the Town

Hall.$10,000 Unknown

Town of Lynnville 1 Sewer Sewer System Improvements Improvements to the town's sewer treatment planet per Agreed Order with IDEM

Unknown EDA, OCRA, IDEM

Town of Lynnville 2 Parks Lynnville Park Improvements Make improvements to the grounds at Lynnville Park Unknown IDNRTown of Lynnville 3 Downtown Downtown Revitalization Improvements to the sidewalks, street widening, and

drainage to the Downtown area in Lynnville$500,000 OCRA

Town of Lynnville 4 Water Water Tower Replacing a water tower that is falling down $860,000 OCRATown of Newburgh 1 Disaster Lock & Dam Repairs Implement permanent mitigation measures to prevent

current and future hill slope failures at Lock & Dam Park along French Island Trail

$300,000 INDOT, DNR, OCRA

Town of Newburgh 2 Sidewalk Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Project Safe Routes to School sidewalk project on West Jennings from Washington Street to Monroe and north on State Street to Sharon Place

$250,000 INDOT

Town of Newburgh 3 Sidewalk Jefferson Street Sidewalk Project Jefferson Street sidewalk project on Jefferson Street from Jennings north to Jefferson Park

$250,000 Local


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceTown of Newburgh 4 Water Westside Drainage Project Storm water management westside drainage project. $600,000 OCRATown of Newburgh 5 Sewer Lift Station #1 Project Lift Station #1 force main $1,100,000 SRF/UnknownTown of Newburgh 6 Sewer Lift Station #2 Project Lift Station #2 force main $1,400,000 SRF/UnknownTown of Newburgh 7 Water Storm Water Improvements Improvements to town's storm water system Unknown UnknownTown of Newburgh 7 Sewer Triple Crown Lift Station Projects Make improvements to the Triple Crown Lift Station. $630,000 SRF/UnknownTown of Tennyson 1 Water Water Utility Project (Service to

Yellowbanks)Water service to Yellowbanks area. $1,000,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 2 Water Water Utility Project (Water Main Extensions)

Ten (10) miles of water main extensions to new customers. $1,500,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 3 Water Water Utility Project (Water Line Replacements)

Six (6) creek crossing water line replacements. $120,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 4 Water Water Utility Project (Replace Water Meters)

Replace 1,500 water meters. $500,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 5 Water Water Utility Project (System GIS Mapping)

Water system GIS mapping with GPS locations. $200,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 6 Water Water Utility Project (Water Loss/Hydraulic Study)

System water loss and hydraulic study. $30,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 7 Water Water Utility Project (Hydrant, Valvle, Line Replacement)

Miscellaneous hydrant, valve, and line replacement. $100,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 8 Water Water Utility Project (Water Tower Inspection/Rehab)

Water tower inspection and rehabilitation. $500,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 9 Water Water Utility Project (New Water Tower) Construction of a new water tower. $300,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 10 Sewer Sewer Utility Project (Expand Collection System)

Expand sewer collection system. $2,000,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 11 Sewer Sewer Utility Project (Infiltration/Inflow Study)

Collection system Infiltration and Inflow study and line rehab. $300,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 12 Sewer Sewer Utility Project (New Final Treatment Basin)

New final treatment basin with equipment and electric service.

$500,000 OCRA, EDA, IDEM

Town of Tennyson 13 Road Town Street Sign Upgrades Upgrade street signs throughout the town. $15,000 INDOTTown of Tennyson 14 Parks Park Expansion Project Expand the town’s existing park. $500,000 IDNRTown of Tennyson 15 Facility Town Hall/Community Center Rehab Rehabilitation of the town’s existing Town Hall/Community

Center.$500,000 OCRA

Town of Tennyson 16 Facility New Senior Center Project Construct new senior citizens center. $500,000 OCRATown of Tennyson 17 Housing Housing Rehabilitation (Rehabilitate

Households)Rehabilitate 150 households at $25,000 per household. $375,000 IHCDA

Town of Tennyson 18 EMS Fire Station/Equipment Upgrades Upgrade existing fire station and equipment. $500,000 OCRAWarrick County 1A Business North Warrick Industrial Park Improvements to NWIP including rail, overpass, sewer, roads,

and fire protection$28,000,000 EDA

Warrick County 1B Road Highway 57 Improvements Highway 57 extension from Blue Bell Road to Elberfeld and construction of I-64 overpass

$9,300,000 INDOT, EDA


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceWarrick County 2A Business Project Village Earth Infrastructure in Support of Business Development – Project

Village Earth$1,500,000 EDA, USDA

Warrick County 2B EMS New EMS Substation Purchase and/or construct new EMS substation in Chandler with capacity to house County public records

$750,000 OCRA

Warrick County 3 Road New SR 62 Overpass Construct new overpass on State Route 62 west of Alcoa Highway (SR 61)

$1,500,000 INDOT, EDA

Warrick County 4 Road Oak Grove Road Extension Construct new roadway from Anderson Road to Roeder Road on Oak Grove in Warrick County

$1,500,000 INDOT

Warrick County 5 Facility Warrick County Jail Improvements Improvements to the Warrick County Jail. $675,000 IDEM, OCJustice, DOCWarrick County 6 EMS EMA Facility Construct or renovate EMA facility servicing Warrick County $1,000,000 DHS

Warrick County 7 Road Grimm Road/Lincoln Avenue Road Improvements

Road construction improvements from Grimm Road to Lincoln Avenue on State Road 66

$1,500,000 INDOT

Warrick County 8 Housing NSP Project (Elimate/Revitalize Abandoned Properties)

Elimination and revitalization of abandoned or foreclosed properties in Warrick County with special focus in downtown Boonville, Indiana

$1,000,000 IHCDA, OCRA

Warrick County 9 Facility New Community Corrections Facility Construct new facility to increase and enhance services of Warrick County Community Corrections

$5,000,000 DOC

Warrick County 10 Facility New Senior Citizen Facility Construct new senior citizens center to service the senior population of Warrick County

$750,000 OCRA

Warrick County 11 Road Bridge 374 Reconstruction Reconstruct Bridge 374 on Vann Road near State Road 61 in Warrick County

$600,000 INDOT

Warrick County 12 Road Bridge 310 Improvements Improvements to Bridge 310 on Myers Road $400,000 INDOTWarrick County 13 Facility Old, Old Warrick County Jail

ImprovementsFeasibility study and improvements to the Old, Old Warrick County Jail

$1,000,000 OCRA, DNR

Warrick County 14 Water Yankeetown Water Improvements Improvements to the water supply, quality and demand of the Yankeetown Water Authority

$2,000,000 OCRA, IDEM

Warrick County 15 Facility Feasibility Study/Improvements to Warrick County Museum

Feasibility study and improvements to the Warrick County Museum servicing Warrick County.

$500,000 OCRA

Warrick County 16 Road Heim Road and Baugh City Wastewater Collection Extension

New main construction to service Heim Road and Baugh City area.

$1,600,000 OCRA, IDEM

Warrick County 17 Disaster Disaster Mitigation Implementation Implementation of 2008 disaster mitigation projects (construction/housing) as identified by the Disaster Recovery Strategic Plan

$75,000 OCRA, EDA

Warrick County 18 Disaster Flood Mitigation Coordinator Fund a Flood Mitigation Coordinator position to identify potential projects.

$75,000 EDA

Warrick County 19 Parks Improvements to Terrence Friedman Memorial Park

Improvements to proposed public park and rail around Victoria Manor

$750,000 INDOT

Warrick County 20A EMS Dispatch System Bring dispatch up to 800mh system $200,000 UnknownWarrick County 20B EMS Dispatch System Buy radios for all emergency services $1,000,000 UnknownWarrick County 21 EMS Emergency Operations Center Upgrades Need generator put in, new computers and update screens $100,000 Unknown


Sponsor Rank Project Type Project Title Project Description Estimated Cost Potential Funding SourceWarrick County 22 Road Stahl Road Extension Extend Stahl Road from Epworth to Libbert Road $12,000,000 UnknownWarrick County 23 Sewer Elberfield Corridor Sewer Sewer connection from North Warrick Industrial Park to

Evansville sewer and water$8,000,000 Unknown

CEDS Steering Committee Meeting Agendas and Summaries

Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana

CEDS Planning Process

March 1, 2010 LEDO Meeting

Agenda

1. A review of the CEDS planning process

a. The CEDS committee

i. Oversees the process

ii. Represents all major interests in the region

iii. Makes all final CEDS decisions

b. The LEDO subcommittee

i. Identifies initial capital projects

ii. Makes preliminary designation of priority capital projects

iii. Reviews SDG’s description and analysis of background information

iv. Recommends regional vision statement to CEDS committee

v. Creates preliminary CEDS goals, objectives, and action plan

vi. Creates implementation schedule and evaluation criteria

vii. Reviews SDG’s documentation of the planning process

2. Reviewing the March 2009 CEDS Update

a. Business Development projects (p.26)

b. Road projects (pp. 27-30

c. Water projects (pp. 31-32)

d. Sewer/Wastewater projects (pp. 33-34)

e. Energy & Telecommunications projects (p. 35)

f. Quality of Life projects (p. 36)

g. Community Facilities projects (pp. 37-38)

h. Downtown improvement projects (p. 39)

i. Sidewalk improvement projects (p. 40)

j. Parks and Trails projects (p. 41)

k. Housing projects (p. 42)

l. Disaster Mitigation projects (p. 43)

m. EMS projects (p. 44)

3. Other issues

4. Next steps

5. Meeting adjourns

Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana

CEDS Committee

Summary Report of May 18, 2005 Meeting

Introduction

On May 18 the Economic Development Coalition’s (EDC) CEDS committee met to consider the

new five-year CEDS plan. At the meeting the committee first reviewed some background

information: the Economic Development Administration (EDA), the purpose of the

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), and the process of revising the CEDS.

The meeting was facilitated by Thayr Richey from Strategic Development Group (SDG). SDG

had recently completed a survey of the four-county region’s current list of proposed projects. A

draft list was handed out to committee members.

The group discussed a variety of issues:

Regional vision

Goals and objectives for the CEDS

The current CEDS four areas of focus

o Education/workforce o Health care o Infrastructure o Quality of life

The Vision

Under the topic of a revised vision, the committee mentioned the following issues as important

to the long-term health of the region:

Better road from Indianapolis to the region

Higher skilled workforce

Moving toward 100 percent high school graduation rates

The region as a vibrant Midwest center for innovation and design

A slack water harbor: a multi-modal transportation hub

An economy that increased the wealth of regional residents

A quality of life that attracted residents, workers, and visitors

A continuation of regional collaboration

Creating an environment that encourages new business locations

Providing tomorrow’s technology today – e.g. fiber optic cable

Establishing an incentive for entrepreneurs and other business tools

Having housing that was affordable across the spectrum of needs

Improving the region’s self-image

Improving the environment: a greener region – e.g. recycling

Completing the many downtown plans throughout the region and then marketing them

Developing a healthier population

Working with major employers in a supply chain recruitment approach

Increasing the number of parks

Current Assets and Values

May 18, 2010

AGENDA

1. Welcome and introductions

2. Why we are meeting and what we hope to accomplish

a. Why update the CEDS? b. Overview of the CEDS process c. Requirements for updating the CEDS

3. Discussion of handout

4. Key elements in the CEDS document

a. Vision b. Areas of focus c. Goals d. Objectives e. Action Strategies & Initiatives f. Proposed projects

5. 2009 CEDS: Four strategic areas of focus

a. Education/workforce b. Health care c. Infrastructure d. Quality of life

6. Discussion on the problems and opportunities in the areas of focus

7. Discussing the goals

8. Discussing the action strategies & initiatives

9. Reviewing proposed projects

10. Other issues

11. Next steps

12. Meeting adjourns

Economic Development

Coalition of Southwest

Indiana CEDS Committee

Summary Report of June 2, 2010 Meeting

Prepared by

Strategic Developmetn Group

2901 N. Walnut Street

Bloomington, IN 47404

T/ 812-331-1282

F/ 812-331-1285

www.sdg.us

A Summary of the 6-2-10 Southwest Indiana CEDS Committee Meeting

A Report from SDG 2

INTRODUCTION

On June 2 the Economic Development Coalition’s (EDC) CEDS committee held its second meeting on the

new five-year CEDS plan. At the meeting the committee first reviewed some background information:

the Economic Development Administration (EDA), the purpose of the Comprehensive Economic

Development Strategy (CEDS), and the process of revising the CEDS.

The meeting was facilitated by Thayr Richey from Strategic Development Group (SDG). The group

discussed a variety of issues:

Local and regional projects

Key elements in the CEDS document

Vision

Areas of focus

Goals

Action Strategies & Initiatives

Members of the committee suggested changes in the projects. Thayr asked all of the committee

members to email any other changes or corrections as soon as possible. There was also a brief

discussion of project competitiveness and fundability. Thayr pointed out that, regardless of a project’s

competitiveness, there was no significant downside to listing it in the CEDS. The two arguments for

listing every potential project is that it gives EDA a more complete picture of the region’s needs and

plans, and 2) it provides easier access to project plans for other funding agencies (e.g. the Indiana Office

of Community and Rural Development).

STRATEGIC AREAS OF FOCUS

The group again addressed the 2009 CEDS: Four strategic areas of focus. As a working premise, the

committee was examining the 2005 CEDS areas of:

Education/workforce

Health care

Infrastructure

Quality of life

There was concern on the part of some members that it was difficult to get adequate information on

healthcare and education/workforce development needs in order to fully assess candidate projects.

One person also noted that those areas were also difficult to influence with economic development

strategies.


A Report from SDG 3

The committee felt that there was a need for improved, integrated communications on these subjects.

Nonetheless, there was consensus to continue the 2005 strategic areas of focus.

VISION FOR THE REGION

The group made some changes to the proposed vision. It now will read:

By 2020 the quality of life and economic success of Southwest Indiana will be equal to its peer

regions across the country. The region will have a competitive workforce, a set of employers

that are innovative, and communities whose quality of life attracts new residents.

The committee decided to compare Southwest Indiana to a different specific peer region for each

benchmark. In addition, it was proposed that leadership groups from Southwest Indiana visit those

benchmark regions to learn how other areas are managing quality of life and economic success.

IMPLEMENTATION

There were a several questions about implementing the plan. There was a question of what

organization will be responsible for managing the plan. The consensus was that the Economic

Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana (EDCSWI) would have overall responsibility. However, the

EDCSWI would work with a variety of regional partners to carry out the plan.

In a similar vein, it was suggested that a regional organization be responsible for each measurable

objective.

Another participant asked about the on-going role of the EDCSWI – CEDS committee. Thayr

recommended that the committee be reconvened periodically to review the status of the plan.

There was discussion about the plan helping create buy-in for the region among a wide range of local

organizations.

The committee was still considering objectives for goals three and four when the meeting ended. Thayr

offered to flesh out those objectives after the meeting ended.


A Report from SDG 4

GOALS

The participants identified five goals:

1. Encourage innovative employers.

2. Support Education.

3. Improve the health of the region’s residents.

4. Develop local and regional infrastructure.

5. Build a higher-skilled workforce through life-long-learning.

Goal One: Encourage Innovative Employers1

Innovation will be a critical factor in business success as the region competes more in the national and

international economy. The purpose of this goal is to develop the region as a center for innovation and

design. By identifying the region as a place that welcomes innovation, this goal will help improve the

region’s quality of life and economic success.

Objective One: Create a system for identifying business innovation. (Timeline: six months)

Objective Two: Begin to position the region as a place that welcomes innovation.

(Timeline: 12 months)

Objective Three: Identify innovative established employers. (Timeline: 18 months)

o Regardless of size.

o Regardless of business sector.

Objective Four: Target 100 new business prospects based, in part, on their level of

innovation. (Timeline: 18 months)

This goal was the focus of a great deal of discussion by committee members. Issues from the benefits of

a regional wireless network to the region’s lack of post-secondary basic research were raised.

1 SDG divided the committee’s suggested goal for Education and Healthcare into two separate goals. SDG also modified the

objectives in the goals.


A Report from SDG 5

Goal Two: Support Education

Education at all levels is critical to both quality of life and economic development.

Objective One: Create a strategy to bring post-secondary basic research to regional

educational institutions. (Timeline: 3 months)

Objective Two: Convene educational roundtable. (Timeline: 6 months)

o K-12 systems.

o Post-secondary institutions.

o How can the business community help.

Objective Three: Support Educational innovations. (Timeline: 12 months)

Objective Four: Create a partnership to communicate value of education to parents.

(Timeline: 18 months)

Goal Three: Improve the Health of the Region’s Residents

Health is clearly tied to quality of life. However, health is also a factor in economic issues such as

productivity, creativity, etc.

Objective One: Focus on health outcomes. (Timeline: 18 months)

o Reducing smoking and obesity.

o Form hospital CEO advisory group.

o Collaborate with businesses and workers.

Objective Two: Develop pedestrian friendly infrastructure. (Timeline: 24 months)

Goal Four: Develop Local and Regional Infrastructure

Infrastructure is comprised of the basic physical services and facilities that improve quality of living and

make commerce efficient. This is an essential goal for the Southwest Indiana region.

The key infrastructure projects are described in the list of potential projects later in this plan. The

projects include regional and local sewer, water, roads, and buildings, among other activities.


A Report from SDG 6

Goal Five: Build a higher-skilled workforce through life-long-learning

Objective One: Form a life-long-learning partnership with key business, education, labor, and

workforce development organizations. (Timeline: 3months)

o Regional Workforce Board.

o WorkOne Centers.

o Regional Adult Education Consortium.

o Regional higher education institutions.

o Business leaders.

o Chambers of Commerce.

Objective Two: Identify ten regional businesses to test a continued education and training strategy.

(Timeline: 12 Months)

Objective Three: Create a regional life-long-learning strategy. (Timeline: 36 months)

Prepared by SDG / CEDS Regional Planning Session June 2, 2010 1

Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

Regional Planning Session June 2, 2010

AGENDA

1. Welcome and introductions

2. Review of last meeting

3. Discussion of projects

4. Key elements in the CEDS document

a. Vision

b. Areas of focus

c. Goals

d. Action Strategies & Initiatives

5. 2009 CEDS: Four strategic areas of focus

a. Education/workforce

b. Health care

c. Infrastructure

d. Quality of life

6. Hypothetical Vision for the Region

Ten years from now the civic leaders and residents of

Southwest Indiana will match the quality of life and

economic success with peer regions across the country.

The region will have a competitive workforce, a set of

employers that are innovative, and communities whose

quality of life attracts new residents.

Prepared by SDG / CEDS Regional Planning Session June 2, 2010 2

The Region will continue to pursue:

Collaboration among units of government, labor, education, faith-based and civic organizations

A focus on innovative employers

Educational excellence

Infrastructure that supports families and businesses

Quality communities

A productive workforce

7. Discussing possible goals – based on discussion from the last meeting

a. Improving regional workforce skills

b. Moving toward 100 percent high school graduation rate

c. Increasing residents’ wealth

d. Having a diverse (rural/suburban/urban) quality of life that attracted new residents

e. Improving infrastructure (from roads to fiber optic cable)

f. Increasing housing opportunities across the spectrum

g. Creating a greener region

h. Developing a healthier population

i. Other goals

8. Exploring action strategies & initiatives

9. Other issues

10. Next steps

11. Meeting adjourns

Commissioners Resolutions


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