Montrose Economic Update: September 2017

American economic growth continues heading into the fourth quarter of 2017 but not at the pace hoped for. Key data points related to the current performance of the U.S. economy include the following:
• Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 3.0 percent in the second quarter of 2017, according to the “second” estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis following a 1.2 percent increase in the first quarter;
• Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased in 43 states and the District of Columbia in the first quarter of 2017, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Real GDP by state growth in the first quarter ranged from 3.9 percent in Texas to -4.0 percent in Nebraska (see chart below).

Statewide Investments to Create More Than $115 Million in New Payroll

COLUMBUS – On August 30, 2017 Governor John R. Kasich announced the approval of assistance for 8 projects set to create 3,792 new jobs and retain 459 jobs statewide. During its monthly meeting, the Ohio Tax Credit Authority (TCA) reviewed economic development proposals brought to the board by JobsOhio and its regional partners. Collectively, the projects are expected to result in more than $115 million in new payroll, and spur more than $377 million in investments across Ohio.

Host a Manufacturing Day Event; Introduce People to Careers in Manufacturing

In a little less than a month, thousands of communities, manufacturers, trade groups and economic development organizations across the country will celebrate Manufacturing Day. This annual event, which will be held Friday, Oct. 6, was created to improve public perception of manufacturing, introduce people to career opportunities in manufacturing and draw attention to manufacturing’s value to the U.S. economy.

Application Window Open for Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Program

The US Department of Transportation (US DOT) on June 29, 2017 issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity for small and large projects through its new program, the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program. This program is a replacement for the FASTLANE program. The emphasis of INFRA is leveraging non-federal funding, particularly projects and have a public-private partnership.

Carlisle Brake & Friction Expands in Medina

Work has begun on the expansion of the City of Medina’s Carlisle Brake & Friction facility at 920 Lake Road in the Medina Industrial Park. The City of Medina, partnering with the Medina County Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Medina Chamber of Commerce, the Medina County Port Authority, and the Team NEO/Jobs Ohio Regional Office, was able to offer a package that included a Job Creation Tax Credit and other tax incentives.