Find Out Who’s Hiring – Northwest Kentucky Job Fair
February 3, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: John L. Mathias
(270) 826-7505
Henderson, Ky. – Job opportunities throughout the region will be exhibited by numerous companies and organizations participating in the Job Fair hosted by Northwest Kentucky Forward on Thursday, February 23, 2012.
This one day event will be held at the Henderson Fine Arts Center and allows job seekers to participate in a free event from 9am until 5pm. Participants will have the opportunity to meet with and learn more about the companies that are looking to hiring.
“The Job Fair provides agencies and job seekers a single place to discover what opportunities are available and talk to people who are actually hiring,” said Betsy Wells-Jones, Education and Workforce Coordinator for Northwest Kentucky Forward.
Beyond meeting companies and learning about job opportunities, participants will have the chance to win door prizes every hour (including gas and Wal-Mart cards).
Participants will also have a chance to learn about job training programs/databases such as The Northwest Kentucky Works.
“Northwest Kentucky Works allows job seekers a way to link with employers through a system which is free to participants, easy to use, and based on demonstrated skills and training,” stated Betsy Wells-Jones, Education and Workforce Coordinator for Northwest Kentucky Forward.
Companies interested in participating in the Job Fair can register for a fee of $25 (registration is free for Northwest Kentucky Forward Investors), by contacting Northwest Kentucky Forward at 270-826-7505 or by emailing
results@northwestky.com. Exhibitors will be provided with a space to setup, refreshments and lunch.
Northwest Kentucky Forward is a public-private partnership charged with creating wealth and opportunity for Henderson, McLean, Union and Webster Counties. For more information about Northwest Kentucky Forward: www.northwestky.com
Sent as a professional courtesy.
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Stellar Community Workshop
January 27, 2012
Stellar Community Information:
Stellar is a pilot program that provides a substantial amount of funding to communities provided by INDOT, OCRA, and IHCDA. Two communities were selected last year and each received approximately $15M in grant funding. For more information regarding this program you may visit www.ocra.in.gov It is featured on that website.
A workshop regarding the Stellar Communities program and application is being held on Tuesday, January 31, 2012, from 9 AM – 5 PM at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis. Registration is now being taken.
Letters of Interests are due on Friday, February 10, 2012 by 5:00pm (EST).
Please contact our office if you have any questions or would like more information.
Mastering the Funding Matrix
January 26, 2012
Mastering the Funding Matrix
BALL STATE INDIANAPOLIS CENTER– FEB. 21, 2012
Is your community considering a sewer or water infrastructure, housing, or community facilities project, but you don’t know where to begin to find funding and technical assistance providers? If so, we can help!
During this three-hour workshop, you will have an opportunity meet state, federal, and nonprofit technical assistance and funding providers. They will explain their programs and answer your questions. This workshop will be interactive and fast-paced; participants will have an opportunity to interact directly with the funding and resource providers. Bring your business cards and plenty of questions. It is not often that this many funding and technical assistance providers are in one place at one time; don’t miss out on this great opportunity.
Register on the
web; space is limited!
The workshop agenda includes funding breakout sessions with:
· Sewer and Water Infrastructure
· Housing
· Community Facilities
Date: February 21, 2012
Cost: $20.00
Contact Information:
Please contact Sarah Browning, Education and Training Director at syeager@bsu.edu or call (765) 285-2773 for more information. You may also see us on the web.
Metro Job Growth Outshining Indiana and the Nation
January 20, 2012
(January 20, 2012) - The Evansville metropolitan area is helping fuel Indiana’s job growth for the past twelve months according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, the Evansville metro added more actual employment over the same time one year earlier than larger metropolitan areas such as Atlanta, Georgia; Des Moines, Iowa; Wichita, Kansas; or Indianapolis, Indiana. The Evansville metro also had a larger percentage of job growth than those same metros along with beating out competitors such as Chattanooga, Tennessee and the Quad Cities area of Davenport, Iowa, Moline and Rock Island, Illinois in addition to larger regional metros of Columbus, Ohio; Lexington, Kentucky; and, Nashville, Tennessee.
(continued below)
Progress Report: Job Growth in U.S. Metros
January 19, 2012
More than two years after the offical end of the great recession finds most U.S. metros are adding jobs. According to the lastest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for November 2011, 239 of 372 metros have total employment greater than at the same time one year earlier. This marks 17 consecutive months with the number of metros adding jobs outnumbering the number losing jobs.
See where the Evansville, IN-Henderson, KY MSA stands below.
HELPERS_Organization
January 12, 2012
HELPERS ORGANIZATION
Serviced provided by HELPERS includes:
- Volume Counts
- Ball Bank Studies
- Road Safety Audits
- Signal Warrant Analysis
- Low Cost Improvement Ideas
- HSIP Application Assistance
- Safe Routes to School Application Assistance
- Crash Profiles for Rural Counties
- Speed Studies
- Crash Analysis
- Safety Training
Ms. Slusher wanted to make sure that the communities we serve were aware of the services of HELPERS and that this service was free. Therefore I am providing to you contact information for the HELPERS organization in case you have questions about INDOT funding or need assistance applying for INDOT or other road related funding:
Laura Slusher, P.E., HELPERS Project Manager
1435 Win Hentschel Blvd., Suite 8100
West Lafayette, IN 47906-1176
800-428-7639
Administrative Assistant Opening
December 20, 2011
The Coalition is currently looking for an experienced Administrative Assistant to join our staff. A full job description is below.
PRESS RELEASE: Warrick Wellness Trail, New Medical District
December 9, 2011
Newburgh, Indiana (June 27, 2011) – As the availability of healthcare continues to expand dramatically across the nation, patients are in search of the highest quality care available at the greatest convenience. WARRICK WELLNESS TRAIL, a new regional medical district in Warrick County, Ind., offers over one million area residents from Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky access to the entire spectrum of medical and healthcare services in one convenient location.
Anchored by Deaconess Gateway Hospital, WARRICK WELLNESS TRAIL is a central location for hospitals, specialty clinics, medical practices, laboratories, research facilities, and pharmaceutical providers for the tri-state region that incorporates 38 counties. Another major healthcare provider in the area, St. Mary’s Hospital currently has a facility in the region and is expanding.
PRESS RELEASE: Thirteen Shovel Ready Sites Declared by State
December 2, 2011
Thirteen sites across Indiana earned the title of ‘shovel ready’ today, paving the way for businesses to quickly locate new operations on property ready for development.
According to Airport Manager Travis McQueen this puts the Huntingburg Airport on a short list for companies interested in opening a business in Indiana. “Now I can call businesses we have had conversations with and they can revisit the idea of moving into a position concerning the airport as a site for expansion.”
“This can expedite the decision for a company in regards to locating here. Additionally the State of Indiana can now say ‘here is this site in Huntingburg’ when speaking to prospective businesses McQueen said. (more).
PRESS RELEASE: Smart City Initiative
November 15, 2011
(EVANSVILLE, IN) – November 15, 2011 – Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel announced today that the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility (EWSU) Board has approved a contract with Johnson Controls, Inc. to launch the Evansville Smart City Initiative, which will include energy, water, network infrastructure, and operational improvements; create City-wide fiber optic and wireless networks; create local jobs; save the City millions of dollars; and dramatically reduce carbon dioxide emissions – without raising utility rates or taxes. This initiative is the result of a project development agreement (PDA) the EWSU Board approved in May.
PRESS RELEASE: Southwest Indiana Project Selected as COSCDA Best Practice Example
November 1, 2011
The Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA) will be hosting its annual training conference in Indianapolis this week and Southwest Indiana will be well represented. COSCDA, the premier national organization dedicated to the advocacy, professional development and information needs of state agencies administering community development, housing and homelessness programs will feature one of the many projects that the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana’s community development division has secured grant funding.
Indiana's State Historic Preservation Office Seeking Input
September 27, 2011
The Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (Indiana’s State Historic Preservation Office) is seeking public input for revision of its Cultural Resources Management Plan . This document is used to guide decisions about programs and funding for historic preservation and archaeology. Indiana’s cultural resources range from archaeological sites dating back more than 12,000 years to masterpieces of modern architecture, from majestic county courthouses to neighborhoods of modest workers’ cottages, from ceremonial mounds built hundreds of years ago by Native Americans to historic downtowns and main streets. These resources help tell the story of Indiana and who we are as Hoosiers. Your responses on this survey will help build a plan for preserving Indiana’s cultural resources for the next seven years.
The online survey will be open from May (Historic Preservation Month) through the end of September (Indiana Archaeology Month).
Please take a few moments and help us learn what about Indiana’s heritage is important to you.
IDNR Unmet Park and Rec Financial Needs Survey 2011
September 14, 2011
Yes, it's that time of year again, and IDNR's Division of Outdoor Recreation Grants Staff is asking for your help! We want to know what your community’s Parks. Recreation, and Trails budget shortfalls for capital projects are.
Don't have any money to build or develop your outdoor recreation properties?
Want to let the National Park Service know that Indiana wants more money to build new outdoor recreation facilities statewide?
Then PLEASE fill out our short, 8 question online survey!
When? Starting NOW, and open until 5:00pm, Monday, September 26th.
Why? To help us illustrate the unmet financial needs for parks and recreation in Indiana.
Who? All cities, towns, townships, counties, and non-profit organizations who own or operate parks and recreation facilities, and have or want a capitol improvement/construction budget for your parks.
Please pass this e-mail on to anyone you may know who would be able to share some information with us, like: Park Board Members, Park Superintendents, Local Government Officials, and Parks and Recreation-based Non-Profits.
The results of this survey are completely confidential, and will be reported to the National Park Service's Land and Water Conservation Fund Grants Staff to assist them in determining each state's need for future LWCF grant funds. It does make a difference!
We thank you all very much in advance for your help!
Greg Beilfuss and Bob Bronson, IDNR Division of Outdoor Recreation
For any questions concerning this survey, call: (317) 232-4071
Contact Information:
Greg Beilfuss
IDNR State and Community Outdoor Recreation Planner
402 W. Washington St., W271
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2782
Phone: (317) 232-4071
Fax: (317) 233-4648
gbeilfuss@dnr.IN.gov
Global Blade Technology USA, Inc.
September 13, 2011
Evansville, IN - Governor Daniels and Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel jointly announced today that Global Blade Technology (GBT) USA, Inc., a wind turbine blade technology company will establish its first U.S. office and manufacturing facility in approximately 45,000 sq. ft. of space it will lease from The Kunkel Group at Park41, 5401 U.S. Highway 41N. By 2013 GBT will make an investment of $3.5 million and add 40 new jobs with plans of 400 more by 2014.
Blueprint for Success Outlines a Master Plan for Economic Development Success in Southwest Indiana
August 31, 2011
(August 31, 2011) - “The Blueprint for Success is not another plan destined to sit on a dusty shelf but a realistic road map for future economic development achievement in Southwest Indiana,” stated Ron Christian, chairperson of the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana. Commissioned by the Coalition and led by Garner Economics, the Blueprint for Success was originally slated to be a master plan for re-utilization of the former Whirlpool manufacturing site in Evansville, Indiana. The direction of the study changed in April 2011 when Whirlpool Corporation sold the property to a Southwest Indiana developer – the Kunkel Group.
“Though the initial direction of the analysis changed, the issues that arose from the plant closure remained the same,” said Greg Wathen, president & CEO of the Coalition. “The objectives of the regional analysis were simple – identify key strengths to emphasize in our economic development efforts along with key weaknesses in the region allowing us to remediate.”
The Blueprint study was funded through a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and culminates a ten-month process from selection of the consultant team to final report. Following the sale of the former Whirlpool property, Garner Economics along with Newmark Knight Frank were instructed to proceed at looking at alternative sites for development with the primary focus for the analysis following the same criteria as proposed in the original grant application to the Economic Development Administration.
Jay Garner, President of Garner Economics, served as the lead consultant for the project. Tom Tveidt, research economist for Garner Economics, provided the analytical analysis and business target recommendations. Robert Hess and Tim Walden of Newmark Knight Frank were involved in analyzing the region’s assets and challenges and providing real estate recommendations to help in gaining a competitive advantage in business development and economic growth opportunities. Leigh Howe of Applied Marketing is providing industry intelligence and qualified leads for the Coalition to pursue based on the industry targets selected.
The analysis included a Competitive Realities Report, which was released earlier this year, along with suggested industry targets the region should pursue based on the best short and mid-term growth opportunity, and recommendations to enhance the region’s global competitiveness. The approach of the study began with the team conducting an assets and challenges assessment of the region applying many of the same criteria to assess a community that are typically used when a site selector evaluates communities for possible corporate investment.
The consultant team conducted a multi-day windshield tour of Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties along with eight focus groups interviewing 70 key stakeholders in the region giving a critical overview of how local businesses and residents evaluate the business climate of Southwest Indiana. They also evaluated key demographic and economic indicators for the region as compared to state and national trends as well as comparing the region to benchmark communities of Chattanooga, Tennessee and the Quad Cities area of Davenport, Iowa, Moline and Rock Island, Illinois – areas having a high concentration of similar industry specialization similar to the Evansville region as well as comprising a multiple state metropolitan area.
Formed in late 2006, the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana acts as the umbrella economic development organization for Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties in Southwest Indiana and has attracted nearly $400 million in new investment and more than 2,400 new jobs. The Coalition facilitates and coordinates business retention, expansion and attraction activities; and, supports efforts to enhance the business climate through regional capacity building.
Another important aspect of the Coalition’s multi-faceted job description is helping the communities it serves build new capacity for future development. In four years, the Coalition has secured more than $58 million in grants for such things as expansion of water and sewer systems; building new community centers; and, making improvements to the region’s levee system, which protects thousands of acres.
Registration Open for Indiana Main Street Conference
August 30, 2011
Registration is now open for the 2011 Indiana Main Street Conference, to be held October 19th and 20th.
Though the complete agenda is still being finalized, Donovan Rypkema will be speaking at the Noblesville City Hall on October 19th and the annual Indiana Main Street awards luncheon on October 20th in Arcadia with special guest Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. Some great sessions in the works! This conference is open to anyone who is interested in downtown revitalization and is a great learning and networking opportunity for all who attend.
Indiana Water Map Modernization
August 19, 2011
Indiana DNR is releasing new preliminary flood hazard maps for several counties in Indiana. When final, the maps will show flood risk throughout each updated county map and determine whether property owners, with a federal or federally insured loan, are required to carry flood insurance. Many counties in Indiana have outdated maps which were made before new technology and risk-modeling techniques were available and are in need of significant updates. These maps will be available for the public to view and comment at a series of open houses.
Locations of Open Houses:
Decatur County Flood Risk Open House
Greensburg City Hall Gym, 314 West Washington Street, Greensburg, IN
Shelby County Flood Risk Open House
Intelliplex Conference Center, 2154 Intelliplex Drive, Shelbyville, IN
Tipton County Flood Risk Open House
4-H Community Building, Tipton County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1200 South Main Street, Tipton, Indiana
Steuben County Flood Risk Open House
317 Wayne Street, Angola, IN
Lt. Governor Skillman Awards $150,000 Community Focus Fund Grant to Town of Poseyville
July 14, 2011
INDIANAPOLIS- Yesterday at a Statehouse ceremony, Lt. Governor Becky Skillman awarded a $150,000 Community Focus Fund grant to the Town of Poseyville to fund the purchase of a rescue truck. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) administers the grants, which are funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Twenty-two communities and counties were recognized at the ceremony, with grant awards totaling more than $9.4 million.
Grant submission and administration by: Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana.
Lt. Governor Skillman Awards $600,000 Community Focus Fund Grant to Town of Patoka
July 14, 2011
INDIANAPOLIS- Yesterday at a Statehouse ceremony, Lt. Governor Becky Skillman awarded a $600,000 Community Focus Fund grant to the Town of Patoka to fund a water infrastructure improvement project. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) administers the grants, which are funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Twenty-two communities and counties were recognized at the ceremony, with grant awards totaling more than $9.4 million.
Grant submission and administration by the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana.
IDHS GATHERING MORE DATA - CONSIDERING FEDERAL ASSISTANCE APPEAL
July 13, 2011
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is working with the counties denied federal assistance to gather more damage data.
The 11 counties in the request were Decatur, Dubois, Gibson, Greene, Harrison, Lawrence, Monroe, Pike, Posey, Vanderburgh and Vigo.
“We must act quickly,” said IDHS Executive Director Joe Wainscott. “Not only must IDHS and the counties document and verify a substantial additional number of damaged homes, but we also must be timely with the request.”
If enough additional damage is documented, IDHS will recommend an appeal of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s denial of federal assistance to citizens and businesses in those counties. FEMA notified IDHS of the denial Friday, July 8.
Report Damage Online
A link to the form is also available on the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) website at
www.in.gov/dhs <
http://www.in.gov/dhs> . In the middle of the page under "Topics of the Day," click on "Report Damage Beginning April 18, 2011 and Continuing - Wind and Flooding." The reports are being combined with previous damage reports.
If You Do Not Have Internet Access
Individuals without Internet access are encouraged to contact a friend, family member or neighbor for assistance. Web access is also available at many libraries, religious institutions, community centers or other public facilities. If none of those options are available, individuals may also contact their county emergency management agency to report damage.
Questions
SEMINAR: Win, Lose, or Draw – How the 2011 legislative changes will impact economic development and Southwest Indiana
July 7, 2011
Dear Elected Officials, staff and economic development partners,
The 2011 Indiana Legislative session created significant changes in many of the economic development tools used by local communities as well as created some devices. For example, were you aware that as of July 1, property taxes can now be abated at 100% for up to 10-years instead of the gradual phasing-in used in the previous statute? This change alone could have significant financial implications for every county from the most commonly used economic development tool.
Read full release below.
Great Week for Economic Development in Southwest Indiana
June 23, 2011
Great Week for Economic Development in Southwest Indiana
(June 23, 2011) – “It has been a great week for Southwest Indiana,” stated Ron Christian, Chairperson of the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, the umbrella economic development organization for Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties in Southwest Indiana. “With Berry Plastics expanding its customer service operations along with attracting North American Lighting to Warrick County, the Coalition has helped to secure more than $17 million in new investment and 143 new employees for Southwest Indiana. These are strong statements about the improving economy in our region,” added Christian.
PDF of full press release below.
Berry Plastics Press Conference
Main Street Revitalization Program Announced
June 13, 2011
The Office of Community and Rural Affairs has announced the dates for the newly created Main Street Revitalization Program (MSRP), which is part of the Community Development Block Grant Program.
The grant funding is targeted for Downtown Revitalization projects. Applicants must have a designated Indiana Main Street organization to apply for this funding.
· Proposal Due Date: August 15, 2011 – 5pm –Due to One North Capitol, 6th floor
· Application Due Date: October 14, 2011 – 5pm – Due to One North Capitol, 6th floor
· Maximum Grant Amount: $250,000
· Local Match Required: 20%
Indiana Governor Daniels takes flood action
May 19, 2011
INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Mitch Daniels declared a "disaster emergency" Wednesday for 34 Southern Indiana counties hit hard by flooding over the last month.
Although the Indiana Department of Homeland Security has pulled its staff out of the area as floodwater begins to recede, the agency said Wednesday that the declaration is a step toward requesting federal aid, though no specific decisions have been made.
The declaration is for counties that saw damaged roads and property, downed power lines and other severe damage as a result of the flooding. It could be expanded to include more counties, state officials said.
Though his counterparts in Kentucky and Illinois already have requested, and received, federal assistance for the flooding in those states, Wednesday was Daniels' first major step toward doing so.
It comes after WeatherBill, a group that surveys the fiscal impact to farmers of inclement weather, said only 29 percent of Indiana's corn crop is in the ground.
The group said the best-case scenario is Indiana will lose 137 million bushels of potential corn yield at a cost of $961 million. The worst-case is that Indiana will lose 203 million bushels at a cost of $1.4 billion.
Jake Oakman, a spokesman for Daniels, said the governor received updates daily, and often more than once per day, on the flooding starting April 23.
Those, he said, came from Joe Wainscott, the executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. He also has spoken with the Indiana National Guard and regional emergency management teams, Oakman said.
Now that the water has crested, Oakman said, Daniels sometimes does not receive daily updates, but he will continue to receive periodic updates until the cleanup is finished.
In recent weeks, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security collected reports from individuals whose property was damaged in the flooding. Spokeswoman Emily Norcross said so far the state has received 350 damage reports. The most have come from Dubois County, where residents have submitted 80 reports.
The counties in Daniels' declaration include: Benton, Clark, Clay, Crawford, Daviess, Dearborn, Dubois, Floyd, Franklin, Gibson, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Knox, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Ohio, Orange, Parke, Perry, Pike, Posey, Putnam, Ripley, Scott, Spencer, Starke, Sullivan, Switzerland, Vanderburgh, Warrick and Washington.
© 2011 Evansville Courier & Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. 
Daniels Declares Disaster Emergency
May 18, 2011
May 18, 2011
News Release
INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mitch Daniels has issued a disaster emergency for 34 counties due to severe weather that has caused widespread damage to homes, businesses and public property beginning April 18 and continuing.
Counties experienced flooding, damaged roads, downed power lines and other severe damage. The governor signed Executive Order 11-06 to include Benton, Clark, Clay, Crawford, Daviess, Dearborn, DuBois, Floyd, Franklin, Gibson, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Knox, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Ohio, Orange, Parke, Perry, Pike, Posey, Putnam, Ripley, Scott, Spencer, Starke, Sullivan, Switzerland, Vanderburgh, Warrick and Washington counties. The declaration of disaster emergency was effective beginning April 18 and will continue for 30 days.
Currently, the 34 listed counties appear to be the most severely impacted by the current weather-caused emergency, but as additional requests come to the state Emergency Operations Center, the disaster declaration may be expanded to include more counties.
The disaster declaration means the Indiana Department of Homeland Security can take actions needed to provide expanded emergency services and is a step needed to request assistance from the federal government, if warranted.
Source: Indiana Department of Homeland Security
Indiana State Department of Health - SPARK Active Recreation
May 17, 2011
Attention Local Elementary Schools:
The Indiana State Department of Health’s Healthy Communities Division is requesting applications from Indiana elementary school principals to apply for training in the evidence-based SPARK Active Recreation program. One hundred elementary schools will be selected to participate in 3 hours of training on implementation of the SPARK curriculum and be provided the program manuals, CDs and a $500 equipment voucher. In addition, the schools chosen will receive up to $75 to reimburse the costs of substitute teachers, if necessary. Selected representatives from each recipient school will be responsible for attending one (1) of five (5) regional training workshops being offered throughout Indiana in September and October of 2011. The value of this opportunity is worth more than $1,600 and includes ongoing technical support from the SPARK training staff and the ISDH Schools Coordinator for the Healthy Communities Division.
Attached is additional information on the program as well as the application that needs to be submitted.
Applications are due May 27, 2011 and should be sent, emailed or faxed to:
Lindsey Bouza, MPH, CHES
Schools Coordinator, Healthy Communities Division
Indiana State Department of Health
2 N. Meridian St., 2L
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone (317) 233-5603
Fax (317) 234-6473
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
May 3, 2011
The federal government has launched the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program, funded by the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The EECBG program is designed to help eligible entities create and implement strategies to create jobs, reduce total energy use, and improve energy efficiency in the building and transportation sectors. More information on the program is available on the EECBG webpage at http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/ .
The Community Energy Plan program will provide an energy efficiency plan to some of Indiana’s smaller Cities and Towns. Communities that apply and are accepted to the program will have the audit and energy plan development completed free of charge. The CEP program is available to non-entitlement communities in Indiana. These are incorporated cities and towns below 35,000 in population, or counties below 200,000 in population. The funds for this program come from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. Community eligibility is determined by USDOE. For a list of cities and counties EXCLUDED from this program, see the EECBG wepage at http://www.in.gov/oed/2631.htm .
The CEP Program will provide a comprehensive inventory of all community energy usage. This includes but is not limited to buildings, fleets, streetlights and wastewater treatment facilities. The audit will identify potential energy savings and potential measures to attain those savings. The plan developed for the communities will offer suggestions on how the energy efficiency efforts can be incorporated in all levels of the community’s decision-making process.
Begin the online application process by accessing the OED Grant Managment System here.
Alcoa Announces Grant Proposal Process
April 28, 2011
Regional Nonprofit Organizations, Educational Institutions and Local Government Leaders:
The Alcoa Foundation has made significant investments through Warrick Operations, and this tradition will continue in 2011 with new investments meant to strengthen our community. At Alcoa, sustainability is an integral part of our culture and our core strategy, including how we work with the community. We share a “mutual sustainability” with our community to build economic success, environmental excellence and social responsibility.
In 2011, the Alcoa Foundation will make investments of nearly $320,000 through Warrick Operations. Of that amount, there will be about $140,000 available for new grants.
Information on how to apply for Alcoa Foundation funding has been posted to our web site at www.alcoa.com/warrick The Alcoa Foundation made some changes to its priority focus areas this year and to the overall application process, based on feedback from last year. Much of the process, however, remains similar. There are some improvements -- this year, non-profit organizations will begin with a draft application, which includes some of the core questions that will be on the full application. This initial application, or concept paper, will be used to determine the next steps.
The deadline for submissions to Warrick Operations is May 16.
A direct link to the guidelines and resource material can be found here -- http://www.alcoa.com/locations/usa_warrick/en/info_page/Alcoa_Foundation_Grants.asp
Thanks for your important work in our community,
Jim Beck
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Alcoa Warrick Operations
PO Box 10
Newburgh, IN 47629-0010
Office: 812-853-4557
Cell: 812-454-2449
Fax: 853-1086
www.alcoa.com/warrick
Still Time to Submit Applications for "Stronger Economies Together" Initiative
April 28, 2011
Still Time to Submit Applications for “Stronger Economies Together” Initiative
Overview Conference Call Set for this Friday
On Friday, April 29, 2011, USDA Rural Development and Purdue Extension will be hosting an informational conference call for those considering applying for the previously announced Stronger Economies Together (SET) program. The original press release is below
The call will provide a quick overview of the SET program, cover key dates in the application and participation process, and take questions from perspective applicants. The following is the information for the conference call.
Friday, April 29, 2011
1:00 – 2:30 pm EDT
Call in number 866-729-8847 (no pass code required)
A PowerPoint will be available for download prior to the call (by noon on Thursday, April 29, 2011) and can be found at
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/in/. For those unable to participate in the Friday call, it will be recorded and available later that day for download from the same web addressed as above.
Original March 29, 2011 release:
Applications Available for “Stronger Economies Together” Initiative
Provides Technical Assistance for Rural Regional Development
USDA Rural Development, in conjunction with the Purdue Cooperative Extension, and other state and local partners, has released details of a initiative called “Stronger Economies Together” (SET), which is designed to help regional teams develop new approaches to strengthen and enhance regional economic development activities. The SET initiative is an opportunity for current or newly formed multi-county teams to receive the latest tools, training, and technical assistance to help their region move forward and take advantage of positive growth and quality of life opportunities. Two multi-county areas in rural Indiana will be chosen to participate in the initiative.
The SET initiative eligibility requirements are: 1) Applicants must be multi-county regions (at least three or more counties) in Indiana (or in conjunction with counties in neighboring states) where the average rural population is 51 percent or more of the region’s total population based on Census data or other sufficient data or documentation OR 2) Applicants must be multi-county regions (at least three or more counties) in Indiana (or in conjunction with counties in neighboring states) where 75 percent of the region's land area is located in rural areas of that region based on Census data or other sufficient data or documentation.
Applications for the SET initiative are now available at Indiana’s Rural Development Web site at
www.rurdev.usda.gov/in. A complete application must be submitted electronically to
darrell.mowery@in.usda.gov by May 13, 2011 (11:59 pm Eastern). An acknowledgment of receipt of application will be sent within 36 hours. The two applicants that are selected will be announced by June 30, 2011. There is no application fee, but chosen applicants should be prepared to supply some minor logistical support.
The successful applicants will receive the following: 1) Valuable intensive strategic planning training for your regional teams, including the newly developed “Stronger Economies Together” program, a program designed to help your regional team develop new approaches to strengthen and enhance regional economic development activities; 2) Database tools specifically designed to help the regional teams examine the critical economic drivers of your region and identify emerging growth sectors and regional competitive advantages; 3) Technical assistance and educational support from Purdue, USDA Rural Development staff; and 4) Other educational and information-sharing opportunities with other SET program participants around the country.
If you have questions, contact:
- Scott Hutcheson, (765) 494-7273, Assistant Program Leader for Community and Economic Development, Purdue Cooperative Extension, hutcheson@purdue.edu
- Darrell Mowery, (317) 290-3100 ext. 410, Public Affairs Specialist, USDA Rural Development, darrell.mowery@in.usda.gov
USDA Rural Development administers and manages more than 40 housing, business, and community infrastructure and facility programs through a network of 6,100 employees located in 500 national, state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $130 billion in loans and loan guarantees. For more information on programs offered by USDA Rural Development, contact the Indiana State Office at (317) 290-3100 ext. 4 or visit its Web site at
www.rurdev.usda.gov/in.
The Purdue Cooperative Extension is one of the nation's largest providers of scientific research-based information and education. It is a network of colleges, universities, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, serving communities and counties across America. The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service program areas are: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Consumer and Family Sciences, Economic and Community Development, and 4-H Youth.
Evansville Regional Airport Data Inquiry
March 2, 2011
One of the most critical pieces of transportation infrastructure for our region is air service and Evansville Regional Airport has asked our assistance in trying to determine future demand. The airport is in serious discussions with several airlines about the possibility of adding air service to our market.
If you can share either quantitative data outlining your company’s future air service demand for the next 12 to 18 months or anecdotal data describing where your demand might go, it would help the airport in their discussions with the airlines.
Please send that information to my attention by March 10 to gwathen@southwestindiana.org. Diminished commercial air service would be detrimental to growing our regional economy and with your help we should see better service in the future. Thank you.
J. Gregory Wathen, APR
President and CEO
Increased Water Treatment Efficiency On The Way For Hoosier Communities
December 1, 2010
Increased Water Treatment Efficiency On The Way For Hoosier Communities
Seven Communities to Share $350,000 For New Water Treatment Pumps and Motors
(Indianapolis)--- Lt. Governor Becky Skillman has announced seven Indiana communities have been awarded grants to improve the energy efficiency of their water treatment facilities. The grants were part of the Energy Efficiency for Water Treatment (EEWT) grant program that offered up to $100,000 for the replacement of water or wastewater treatment pumps and motors. The $350,000 program was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s State Energy Program and administered by the Indiana Office of Energy Development (OED).
Request for Proposals for Master Plan on Former Whirlpool Site
October 4, 2010
Please click on the pdf below for a full description of the request for statement of qualifications for Consultant/Facilitation Services to develop the master plan for economic redevelopment of the Former Whirlpool® Manufacturing Site, (Evansville, IN) as a design and innovation technology center.
PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Seeking Indiana's Stellar Communities
September 14, 2010
Stellar Communities is an innovative new state program created to fund comprehensive community development projects in Indiana’s smaller cities and towns. This new program is a partnership between three state agencies: the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA), and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT).
Information Requested on Park and Recreation Facilities by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
August 25, 2010
FOR LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS: The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requests your assistance in gathering an inventory of park and recreation facilities within your communities. This information will ultimately be included in the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreational Plan (SCORP). The SCORP is an assessment of local recreational opportunities and provides a framework for communities to apply for federal funding for park related activities. DNR is interested in information from all levels of local government: City, County, Town and Township.
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Feasibility Study NOFA 2010
August 6, 2010
Please review the Notice of Funds Available inserted below for information regarding the Renewable Energy Feasibility Studies Grants under the Rural Energy for America Program.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS OCTOBER 5, 2010.
Lt. Governor Skillman Awards City of Mount Vernon a $300,000 Community Focus Fund Grant
June 30, 2010
Lt. Governor Skillman Awards City of Mount Vernon a $300,000 Community Focus Fund Grant
INDIANAPOLIS- Yesterday at a Statehouse ceremony, Lt. Governor Becky Skillman awarded the City of Mount Vernon with a $300,000 Community Focus Fund grant for a site clearance project. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) administers the grants, which are funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Twenty-two communities and counties were recognized at the ceremony, with grant awards totaling more than $10 million.
“Community Focus Fund grants help Hoosier cities and towns achieve their long-term development goals,” said Lt. Governor Skillman. “Infrastructure and quality of life projects, like this one, are crucial to the economic success of rural communities in our state.”
The grant will fund the demolition of the former J.R. Short Milling Company’s grain silos. The structures, which are located in the downtown riverfront district, are decaying in condition and are a detriment to the city’s revitalization efforts. Once the project is completed, Mount Vernon residents and visitors will enjoy an attractive green corridor along the Ohio River.
The Community Focus Fund grants are awarded twice annually through a competitive application process. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: community and senior centers, special needs facilities, libraries, water system improvements, storm drainage projects, and sewer system improvements.
Tools of Economic Development Seminar March 11, 2010 - Powerpoint presentation file
March 17, 2010
The Tools of Economic Development Seminar was very insightful and beneficial to our elected officials and staffs that attended. As an added service, we have uploaded the powerpoint presentation of the seminar to our website for the benefit of those who wished to attend but were unable. If you have any questions regarding the seminar or upcoming seminars, please feel free to contact our office at 812-423-2020 or email snewton@southwestindiana.org. Thank you.
Tools of Economic Development - Registration Form
February 24, 2010
For Elected Officials and their staffs of Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties:
Please click on the link for the March 11, 2010 Tools of Economic Development Registration Form.
JOB POSTING: Posey County Executive Director
February 10, 2010
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Posey County Economic Development Partnership, Inc. is seeking a leader and driven candidate to serve as executive director and develop an effective economic and community development program. Must collaborate, communicate, establish and enhance strong relationships with legislative bodies; industries; business groups; educational institutions; other local public agencies; media; and the general public. Five to eight years experience, bachelor degree in related field and certification preferred.
Send resumes by March 10, 2010 to:
Posey County Economic Development Partnership
P.O. Box 643
Mt. Vernon, IN 47620-0643
Town of Chandler awaiting $3.8 million
November 20, 2009
The Town of Chandler, Indiana is awaiting for approval of $3.8 million in grant dollars from the State of Indiana's Disaster related funds for a new water system in Warrick county. Economic Development Coalition Vice President of Community Development, Debbie Bennett-Stearsman said that the money will renovate the entire water system and that state approval could follow in days after a public hearing scheduled for Monday, November 23rd.
This award could come on the heels of Chandler's $2.6 million award for their wastewater treatment project. A significant award from the State.
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Japanese School Wins Writing Award Fourth Year Straight
November 9, 2009
The Courier Press/Tom Lovett (Nov. 4, 2009)
For the fourth consecutive year, the Southern Indiana Japanese School has been awarded the School Award in Writing by the Japan Overseas Educational Services, a subsidiary of the Japanese government's Ministry of Education and Science. The Southern Indiana Japanese School is an extended services program of the University of Southern Indiana. More than 300 Japanese schools worldwide were eligible for the School Award in writing. Only 15 were selected to receive it.
In addition to the School Award in Writing, 10 students from Southern Indiana Japanese School were awarded prizes for their writings and poems in the 30th Literature Contest. "All our students and teachers have been working on this contest since April," said Keietsu Nishimura, principal of Southern Indiana Japanese School. "We are proud of this accomplishment. It's not easy to win this prize, especially four times in a row." Southern Indiana Japanese School opened in 1997 at the request of and with the financial support of Tri-State regional companies. The school prepares students for a smooth transition into Japanese school life when they return home.
Town of Chandler to Break Ground on $2.6 million Wastewater Treatment Project
October 23, 2009
Chandler, IN – The Town of Chandler will issue notice-to-proceed with construction for its $2.6 million wastewater treatment plant improvement project on Monday October 5, 2009 at the Town Council meeting at the Chandler Community Center at 7:00 p.m.
Partial funding for the project comes from a $1.6 million disaster relief grant (DR-2).* The Town of Chandler was the first community in Indiana to receive this grant and this project is the first to be under construction utilizing these grant funds. The grant was authored by the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana with support from State Senators Vaneta Becker and Richard Young and State Representatives Denis Avery and Russ Stillwell. The Coalition will also administer the grant. To finance the remainder of the project, the Town of Chandler also
received a low interest loan through the State Revolving Fund program.
The improvement project will include:
Construction of a new laboratory building; Installation of a new emergency back-up generator capable of powering the entire wastewater treatment facility; Construction of a new septage receiving facility; and Installation of a new screenings washer/compactor at the plant head works.
An improvement of particular interest to taxpayers, the septage receiving facility will help minimize future sewer rate increases. The new facility will accept waste from septic and portable toilet pumpers creating a new revenue stream for the Sewer Department.
Designed by M.D. Wessler & Associates; the project moves into construction immediately. Mitchell and Stark Construction Co., Inc. will complete the improvements in approximately 11 months.
*DR-2 Disaster Relief Grants are awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs under the direction of Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman.
Credit: Brian S. Mundy, P.E., P.L.S.
M.D. Wessler & Associates
brianmundy@mdwessler.com
812-475-1690
UE Ranks in Top 10 Midwest Colleges
August 20, 2009
EVANSVILLE — The newly released U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges" data lists the University of Evansville 10th among master's-granting institutions in the Midwest.
UE comes in second on a list of best values in the Midwest, trailing only Creighton University, and sixth in a "strong commitment to teaching" list for the region.
"Ranking where we did in each category, among 142 eligible institutions, is just one of the many indicators confirming our success in maintaining the highest academic quality at the University of Evansville," UE President Stephen Jennings said.
The magazine measures academic quality by using the assessments of administrators at peer institutions, student graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving.
In a nationwide list of best universities, the top 10 consist of Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford, California Institute of Technology, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, Duke and the University of Chicago.
-John Martin/Evansville Courier & Press
Town of Poseyville, Indiana awarded $600,000 Community Focus Fund Grant
July 16, 2009
Monday at a Statehouse ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman awarded the Town of Poseyville a $600,000 Community Focus Fund grant for a water system improvement project. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) administers the grants, which are funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Twenty-six communities and counties received grants, totaling more than $11 million.
The Town of Poseyville will use the grant to construct a new water plant at the existing well site. This project will replace the current plant, which was built in 1969. This new facility will better serve the residents of Poseyville by increasing their water's pressure and flow, and improve the overall quality of their drinking water.
"These grants provide Indiana communities with funding for needed infrastructure and improve the quality of life for rural Hoosiers," said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. "I oversee the federal CDBG program and I've seen its tremendous impact on our state. I'd like to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone involved in this project for their commitment to making their community a better place to live, work, and do business."
The Community Focus Fund grants are awarded twice annually through a competitive application process. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: community and senior centers, special needs facilities, libraries, water system improvements, storm drainage projects, and sewer system improvements.
Toyota Upgrade in Gibson County Will Cost $500 Million
July 6, 2009
Toyota Motor Corp. plans to spend $500 million to prepare its plant in Princeton, Ind., to build Highlander sports-utility vehicles.
Toyota will begin making the Highlander in October, in space once used for the production of Tundra pickup trucks. The figure, first reported by Bloomberg News, was included in a document filed with the Security and Exchange Commission on June 24.
Kelly Dillon, a Toyota spokeswoman, said the document merely puts a dollar value on the company’s plan to modify the plant so the Highlander can be built there. Toyota announced that plan about a year ago, at the same time that it said it was halting its production of Sequoia SUVs for three months and eventually moving the production of Tundras to San Antonio, Texas.
The investment will result in no additions to the 4,500 Princeton workers, whom Toyota has gone to lengths to avoid laying off. During times in which the company has suspended production on the various vehicles made in Princeton, it has kept affected workers busy by training them to make the plant safer, cleaner and more efficient. That was true both during the three-month halt in making Sequoias, as well as during the different times production of the Sienna minivan, built in the Princeton East plant, has been suspended.
During the past few months, Toyota has been bringing to its Princeton plant equipment needed to make Highlanders, Dillon said. Spending $500 million for that purpose will bring the total investment at the plant to about $3.7 billion.
Toyota had first planned to build the Highlander in a factory it is building in Blue Springs, Miss. But, prompted by a falling demand for large vehicles, company executives changed their minds, instead deciding to make the Prius in Mississippi.
-Dan Shaw, Evansville Courier and Press
Signature School Ranked 27th in Newsweek's Top 100 High Schools
June 11, 2009
Signature School has been honored by Newsweek magazine as an elite American high school.
The charter school on Main Street ranked No. 27 on Newsweek's Top 100 High Schools list. Signature is the only Indiana school in the rankings.
Newsweek's list is based on a high schools' number of Advanced Placement and/or International Baccalaureate tests taken by all students in 2008, divided by the number of graduating seniors.
Signature also was honored recently by the Indiana Department of Education as one of nine schools to attain statewide goals in Advanced Placement participation and pass rates. The nine schools received Spotlight on Learning awards from the state.
Signature, which was created to offer rigorous academic curriculum, became a charter school in 2002. Charter schools are public schools that have greater autonomy over the programs they offer.
Before 2002, Signature was operated by the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp. as an alternative academic program.
-Evansville Courier and Press
Old National Bancorp (NYSE: ONB) Added to the Standard & Poors Small Cap 600 Index
February 21, 2009
According to Standard & Poor’s, the S&P Small Cap 600 is designed to be an efficient portfolio of companies that meet specific inclusion criteria to ensure that they are investable and financially viable and is fast becoming the preferred small cap index in the United States.
Old National Bancorp of Evansville is the largest financial services holding company headquartered in Indiana and, with $7.8 billion in assets, ranks among the top 100 banking companies in the United States.
Mead Johnson Nutrition Builds $26.2 Million Research and Development Center
December 4, 2008
Mead Johnson Nutrition has begun a $26.2 million Global Research and Development Technology Center on its Evansville campus. The 30,000 square foot facility will feature a four-story pilot production spray dryer used in testing trial products in powder form.
The facility, expected to be completed during the summer of 2010, will position Mead Johnson for advancement in product innovation in the global pediatric nutrition marketplace and will bring economic development to Southwest Indiana.
The development of the new center will link investment in biosciences with economic growth, a connection that Mead Johnson, a supporter of the Indiana Life Sciences Initiative, is purposeful in making.
“Having the technology center here represents a compelling opportunity to build upon Mead Johnson’s existing research and development resources in Evansville,” notes Stephen Golsby, chief executive officer, Mead Johnson Nutrition. “It will also contribute to our continuing investment to Evansville and to the high-caliber life-sciences initiatives that are a priority for Southwestern Indiana.”
Incentives Aid Vuteq Expansion
October 29, 2008
Incentives offered by Gibson County and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation are playing a key role in Vuteq’s recently-announced expansion of its Princeton, Indiana, operations. Vuteq, an automotive parts supplier to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, announced it will add a 130,000-square-foot factory and 50 new jobs as part of the $24 million project, expected to be complete by July 2009.
The Gibson County Council has agreed to a phase-in of taxes over the next 10 years for the company. During that abatement period, Vuteq will pay an estimated $2.1 million in taxes on its investment. After the 10 year period, taxes will be an estimated $300,000 annually.
Vuteq has also received offers for tax credits of up to $650,000 and training grants of up to $35,000 from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Mead Johnson Utilizes Landfill Methane
April 23, 2008
Decomposing waste in Laubscher Meadows Landfill generates enough methane gas to equal about 70,000 barrels of crude oil or 15,000 tons of coal each year.
Mead Johnson Nutritionals plans to use this gas from the landfill to replace most of the current natural gas consumption at its Evansville manufacturing facility.
"Today, we are taking another big step toward helping improve air quality in the Evansville area," said Mead Johnson President Steve Golsby on Tuesday.
He said the natural gas usage that will be eliminated by the project represents a shift from the use of fossil fuels to energy that comes from a renewable source. He said the company anticipates the landfill on North St. Joseph Avenue will provide enough gas to power the facility for at least 15 to 20 years.
Red Spot Sold to Japanese Firm
April 23, 2008
Fujichem Inc., is in the process of buying Red Spot Paint & Varnish Co. Inc., one of Evansville’s oldest manufacturers, for $63.2 million. Red Spot will mark its 105th anniversary in December.
Fujichem is a subsidiary of Fujikura Kasei, which produces and sells derivative products of acrylic resins, similarly to Red Spot.
Both Red Spot and Fujikura, a Japanese company with which it has done business for 36 years, are global leaders in advanced coatings for plastics, and supply the automotive industry, including Toyota, and other industries.
Halling said the Red Spot name and the company’s Evansville headquarters, which include manufacturing, research, sales and administrative facilities, will be retained. He said all 345 Red Spot employees also will be retained.
Ivy Tech Gibson County Location Chosen
January 12, 2008
Ivy Tech has chosen a location for the Gibson County expansion it announced last month. The new center will be in a 12,000-square-foot building in the Gibson County Warehousing Inc. industrial park at 2431 S. Crabtree Drive in Princeton, Ind.
The new facility is slated to be open by July and will employ a full-time director and at least one part-time support staff. The facility will have the capacity to offer advanced manufacturing, computer application, healthcare, and energy technology training, as well as continuing education, distance learning opportunities, and a location for certification and employment testing.
Warrick County Economic Development Exec Hired
January 10, 2008
Larry Taylor, who recently retired as senior vice president of Accuride, has accepted the position of Warrick County Economic Development Director.
Taylor said he is passionate about the county and the community and is looking forward to promoting the county so more businesses will come to the area.
He stated that there has already been a lot of groundwork done by the county in the area.
“It’s an ideal time for anyone stepping into this,” Taylor said.
The first item on his agenda is creating a strategy for economic development.
Berry Plastics Dedicates Distribution Center
November 12, 2007
Evansville-based Berry Plastics dedicated its new 600,000 square foot warehouse distribution center in the new Air Commerce Park. Berry Plastics, which manufactures plastic packaging for dozens of products, recently announced that it would make Evansville its global headquarters and would create 250 new jobs.
“The expansion will give us the infrastructure Berry must have to move our products to our customers more efficiently. In addition, it will allow Berry to expand its manufacturing capabilities at its Oakley Street production facility,” said Bob Smith, Berry’s director of warehousing and distribution.
The Air Commerce Park has limitless potential to be a great economic catalyst for the region. Berry Plastics’ recently announced expansion in Evansville is the third in two years from the plastic packaging giant.
Berry Plastics to Bring Global Headquarters and 250 Jobs to Evansville
October 30, 2007
Berry Plastics’ third expansion in Evansville in two years will bring 250 new professional jobs to the city as well as a $20 million investment in a new global headquarters.
Governor Mitch Daniels and Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel joined Berry executives on Tuesday to announce the company’s plans to consolidate its global corporate headquarters here and bring the additional 250 employees.
“Headquarters locations, with high-paying jobs and community commitment they bring, are the best news an economy can get,” Daniels said.
Berry already employs more than 1,200 at the Evansville operation. It has 55 manufacturing operations worldwide, including three in Indiana. Globally, Berry employs more than 12,600 workers, including more than 1,600 in Indiana, company officials said.
State and local officials pledged support for the expansion. The Indiana Economic Development Corp. has offered Berry Plastics up to $4.7 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans.
The state will also provide Evansville a grant of up to $94,000 to assist with off-site infrastructure improvements needed for the project.
Coalition Assists in Bringing Toyota Boshoku to Princeton
October 15, 2007
A longstanding effort by local and state economic developers to forge business relationships with executives of Japanese companies culminated in Monday’s announcement of Toyota Boshoku America’s new facility bringing 200 jobs to Princeton in Gibson County.
The Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana assists Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties in economic-development efforts; and had been working with Gibson County officials for some time to land the Toyota Boshoku seat-frame plant, for which a Kentucky community also competed.
Southwest Indiana is centrally located near the median center of U.S. population and is a prime location for international companies to situate their suppliers. Local communities have worked hard using assets such as their workforce and availability of infrastructure—water, sewer and rail—to be competitive with other states trying to lure businesses.
Berry Plastics Begins $43 Million Expansion
March 22, 2007
Evansville-based Berry Plastics Corp. will invest $20 million in a new distribution center that will create 49 new jobs throughout its southwestern Indiana operations over the next three years and have the potential to add 200,000 additional square feet of space for light manufacturing or added distribution capabilities.
The 600,000 square foot center will be located on a leased site at the Evansville Regional Airport. The company plans to add 49 jobs in the area over the next three years. The company is making a separate, $23 million investment in its Evansville operations.
Berry Plastics currently employs 1,200 people in Evansville and more than 6,500 worldwide.
