Economic Development

Infrastructure Tops Mayors’ Concerns for 2nd Year

The National League of Cities’ analysis of local leaders’ speeches finds renewed interest in maintenance and construction projects, and worries about how they will handle billions in new federal dollars.

  • By Daniel C. Vock

Here Are the US Cities That Will Host World Cup Soccer Matches in 2026

Twenty-two locations were in the running for the high-profile tournament, 16 across the U.S., Canada and Mexico won out.

  • By Bill Lucia

Biden Wants to Send Extra Community Development Grants to Underserved Neighborhoods

The president is proposing a $195 million Community Development Block Grant carveout for 100 of the nation's most disadvantaged communities. But there are questions about how much difference the money can make.

  • By Kery Murakami

A Bike Advocate Mayor on a Mission to Create ‘People-oriented’ Streets

Emeryville, California Mayor John Bauters, who has gained notice for his punchy tweets about cycling and pedestrian issues, explains his broader vision for transforming the city.

  • By Daniel C. Vock

Alabama Senator Calls on ‘Sore Loser’ Coloradans to Give Up Space Command HQ

Colorado politicians, however, are not giving up.

  • By Jacqueline Feldscher

How a Virginia County Wooed Amazon and Boeing

It takes more than tax breaks to get big tech companies to move to a locality, government officials say.

  • By Stephanie Kanowitz

New Program Aims to Help Rural America Tap More Federal Funding

The Biden administration initiative is starting in five states and there are plans to expand it.

  • By Kery Murakami

Ideas to Counter a Thinning Workforce

A new report from a labor market data company offers some recommendations as retirements and other factors lead to employee shortages.

  • By Andre Claudio

Seaweed Farming Has Vast Potential (But Good Luck Getting a Permit)

Most coastal states have little experience with ocean farms and some are trying to ease the permitting process.

  • By Alex Brown, Stateline

Why California's Power to Regulate Auto Pollution Matters Nationwide

As the state regains the ability to set tailpipe standards stricter than the federal government's, it could have far-reaching effects.

  • By Daniel C. Vock

In the Race to Win Electric Vehicle Factories, States Are Handing Out Big Incentives at Lightning Speed

Tax breaks are often controversial, but states are doling out a lot of them—plus land, infrastructure improvements and more—to lure manufacturers in this burgeoning industry.

  • By Daniel C. Vock

Federal Reserve Plans to Raise Interest Rates ‘Soon’ to Fight Inflation

COMMENTARY | The U.S. central bank said surging inflation is guiding its decision about when to lift interest rates. Two experts on financial markets explain what might happen next.

  • By Alexander Kurov and Marketa Wolfe  , The Conversation
Featured eBooks
Road and Transit Infrastructure Trends
Federal Recovery Funds at the State and Local Level
Infrastructure at a Turning Point

Major Offshore Wind Lease Sale Set for February

The planned federal auction for sites near New York and New Jersey comes as the Biden administration continues its push for offshore wind power development. State and local leaders are eying economic opportunities tied to the industry.

  • By Bill Lucia

Legislation Seeks to Block Secrecy With Economic Development Deals

Bills put forward in at least three states aim to ensure there's transparency around tax breaks and other incentives.

  • By Bill Lucia

60 Finalists Selected for $1B Regional Development Program

Coalitions from across the U.S., some led by cities and state and local agencies, are vying for federal grants worth between $25 million and $100 million.

  • By Bill Lucia

Detroit to Use Up to $75M in Federal Aid on Workforce Program

The city will direct American Rescue Plan Act dollars to an initiative that will involve residents doing neighborhood projects, while also completing job training or earning high school degrees.

  • By Bill Lucia

With Scant Data, Questions Hang Over Opportunity Zones

The economic development program received renewed scrutiny on Capitol Hill this week, with some lawmakers and experts suggesting it is in need of reforms.

  • By Bill Lucia

New $1B Economic Development Program Draws Heavy Interest

Over 500 applicants, state agencies and local governments among them, have applied for the regionally focused initiative. There are only 50 to 60 slots available in its first phase.

  • By Bill Lucia

7 Offshore Wind Leases Could be Economic Boon to US Coastal Communities

The Interior Department is "laying out an ambitious roadmap" for the proposed wind power sites in waters off eastern and western states by 2025.

  • By Bill Lucia

Tesla to Move Headquarters From California to Texas

CEO Elon Musk cited housing affordability and commute times in announcing the relocation, which follows a clash between the billionaire and California officials last year.

  • By Bill Lucia

Museums, Cultural Institutions Cut Jobs Despite PPP Loans, Report Finds

More than 14,400 employees were laid off from 288 institutions that received federal loans meant to help preserve jobs, according to a public service employees union.

  • By Andrea Noble