JEDCO to update Jefferson Parish’s economic development plan

Jefferson Parish is set to update its 20-year plan to give the community an economic edge. The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) will spearhead the planning process to arrive at a revamped and refocused economic development strategy with a five-year scope.

The Jefferson EDGE 2020 is a long-term economic development blueprint to promote sustainability, job growth and investment in Jefferson Parish. Over the course of its 15-year history, The Jefferson EDGE has served as a road map for the community’s development. Through the proactive efforts of stakeholders, JEDCO and elected officials, The Jefferson EDGE has delivered game-changing initiatives to the Parish, such as the development of the 500-acre Churchill Technology and Business Park located on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish and quality of life improvements related to the beautification of major corridors, education, and Fat City revitalization. See full Jefferson EDGE highlights here.

In order to stay relevant in a consistently-changing economic climate, and as the parish approached the last five years of the plan, JEDCO determined a need to refresh the strategy.  The objectives of the current EDGE are largely fulfilled. JEDCO believes the parish’s most current barriers to growth as well as the greatest opportunities for development should define the plan moving forward. JEDCO will align the plan with regional and local priorities and weigh the capacity to accomplish those goals by 2020. Through research and discussion with thought leaders in the community, JEDCO will develop an actionable strategy to ensure Jefferson Parish continues to thrive.

“The timing of this plan is critical” says JEDCO Executive Director, Jerry Bologna. “Over the past 15 years, Jefferson’s economic landscape has been largely shaped by the Jefferson EDGE. It is imperative that we continue to rework our vision with some of the brightest minds in our community in order to position Jefferson for continued economic growth and vitality for many years to come.”

JEDCO commissioned GCR, Inc. to prepare the initial framework for the plan as well as to facilitate the planning process and to craft the ultimate strategy for growth. The final plan will be unveiled in June 2015.