Central Ohio to Update Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy - MORPC

News | Feb 16, 2021

Central Ohio Infrastructure Projects Help Maintain Competitive Advantage

May 17, 2021

U.S. Economic Development Administration provides funding to Columbus Region

The U.S. Economic Development Administration has awarded the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission with $400,000 to update the Columbus Region’s comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS), with the support and involvement of One Columbus and partners throughout Central Ohio.

“The U.S. Economic Development Administration is proud to support the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission’s efforts to boost the Columbus regional economy. This investment in MORPC’s critical planning work will lay the groundwork for future investment and job creation to help Central Ohio build resiliency from future economic disruptions.”

Dennis Alvord, Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development

A CEDS serves as a blueprint for economic and community development across the region. A completed CEDS will unlock important, new federal tools and funding sources across the region and ensure the region is prepared for transformational economic development opportunities.

“Together with our partners, our goal is to make the Columbus Region the most prosperous one in the country. US EDA’s support allows us to build on and strengthen the region’s efforts at recovery and preparing for new growth. The CEDS update will improve community development, better inform infrastructure investments, and open access to new support for local communities and businesses.”

William Murdock, MORPC Executive Director

MORPC will use the grant funding to support engagement with community leaders and the private sector to establish a strategic blueprint for regional collaboration.

“Establishing the 11-county Columbus Region as an economic development district is an important process that will lead to increased clarity for our community and economic development efforts throughout Central Ohio.”

Kenny McDonald, One Columbus President and CEO

The final CEDS document will be submitted to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for adoption. With a completed CEDS, the Columbus Region will apply for economic development district (EDD) designation, building further capacity to support economic and community development.

More information on comprehensive economic development strategies is available here.