Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission



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Submitted to the Economic Development Administration

by Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission March 2007

[pic]Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission

10 West Main St., P.O. Box 209

Albion, IL 62806

Serving Crawford, Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, and White Counties

Sarah A. Mann

Executive Director

February 28, 2007

Mr. C. Robert Sawyer, Regional Director

Economic Development Administration

111 North Canal Street

Suite 855

Chicago, IL 60606-7208

Dear Mr. Sawyer:

Pursuant to the requirements of the EDA 301 (b) planning grant received by Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission, we are pleased to present the attached 2007 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS): Greater Wabash Region. Following approval by the EDA Chicago Regional Office, the District CEDS will be sent to all pertinent individuals within the District.

The District CEDS document represents a complete re-write of the former CEDS published in 2005. This document incorporates all the new regulations established in 2006 by the Economic Development Administration’s Final Rule.

Respectfully Submitted,

Sarah A. Mann

Sarah A. Mann

Executive Director

Acknowledgements

The Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission (GWRPC) would like to express its grateful appreciation to the following organizations and local governments for the valuable contribution they made toward the preparation, review and approval of the District's Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for 2007:

• the CEDS Advisory Committee members

• the Crawford County Board and County Officials

• the Edwards County Board and County Officials

• the Lawrence County Board and County Officials

• the Richland County Board and County Officials

• the Wabash County Board and County Officials

• the Wayne County Board and County Officials

• the White County Board and County Officials

• the City of Mount Carmel and City Officials

• the City of Olney and City Officials

• the Crawford County Development Association

• the Fairfield Area Development Commission

• the Lawrence County Industrial Development Council

• the Richland County Development Council

• the White County Economic Development Group

In addition, the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission wishes to express its appreciation to the organizations and local governments for their contributions toward the preparation, review, and approval of the 2007 CEDS document. GWRPC would also like to recognize the contributions made through the cooperation of various local economic development organizations along with state and federal agencies in providing data and reviewing the accuracy of this document. The District further acknowledges Kara Gill, Grant Writer, and Sarah Mann, Executive Director, of GWRPC for their efforts in the coordination and preparation of the District CEDS document.

Table of Contents

Letter of Transmittal ………………………………………………………………………………...2

Acknowledgements…………………………………………………………………………………..3

Table of Contents…………………………………………………………………………………….4

Background…………………………………………………………………………………………..5

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………..6

District Organization and Management…………………………………..………………………….7

The Seven County District………………………………………………………………………….. 9

District Problems and Opportunities………………………………………………………………. 25

Greater Wabash District Goals and Objectives……………………………..……………………...37

Community and Private Sector Participation……………………………………………………….40

District-Wide County Specific Strategic Projects and Activities…………………………………..41

Vital Projects………………………………………………………………………………………..48

Plan of Action………………………………………………………………………………………49

Performance Measures……………………………………………………………………………..50

Appendix……………………………………………………………………………………………51

GWRPC Board of Commissioners…………………………………………………………………51

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Participation…………...………………………58

References…………………………………………………………………………………………..60

Background

Input for this document was provided by the local government officials of Crawford, Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne and White counties, local Economic Development Organizations, State and Federal Agencies and Interested Citizens.

A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is the result of a local planning process designed to guide the economic growth of an area. A CEDS process will help create jobs, foster more stable and diversified economies and improve living conditions. It provides a mechanism for coordinating the efforts of individuals, organizations, local governments, and private industry concerned with economic development.

A CEDS is required to qualify for Economic Development Administration (EDA) assistance under its public works, economic adjustment, and most planning programs, and is a prerequisite for designation by EDA as an economic development district (EDD).

Introduction

What is the CEDS?

CEDS are the initials for Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. The CEDS is a publication that is a result of a local and area-wide planning process designed to guide and foster the economic growth of the region.

According to the Economic Development Administration, a CEDS is designed to bring together public and private sectors in the creation of an economic roadmap to diversify and strengthen Regional economies. The CEDS should analyze the Regional economy and serve as a guide for establishing Regional goals and objectives, developing and implementing a Regional plan of action and identifying investment priorities and funding sources.

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, CEDS, is required by federal regulations to qualify for EDA planning investments. As an EDA funded District, Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission is charged with the yearly submission of the CEDS which is designed to create and retain higher-skill, higher-wage jobs in the most economically distressed areas.

District Organization and Management

The Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission’s Economic Development District consists of the following seven counties: Crawford, Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, and White. The office of the Commission is located at 10 West Main Street, P.O. Box 209, Albion, IL 62806.

Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission (GWRPC) was officially established in 1964 by the Edwards, Wabash and White County boards. Wayne County was annexed into the Commission in 1971, Lawrence County was added in October 1998, Richland County in December 1998, and Crawford County in 2001. As the assigned planning body of these counties, the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission is responsible for preparing and maintaining the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the region. GWRPC’s by-laws were first established on December 28, 1972. The current by-laws stand as amended by the Commission on the September 28, 2006.

Governing Body

The GWRPC board of commissioners is composed of six representatives from each county for a total of forty-two commissioners. The Executive Director serves as a non-voting member of the board. Presently the board consists of 22 elected or appointed officials and employees of local government (52.3%), 18 private representatives/ workforce development/ post-secondary education (42.9%), 2 vacancies (4.8%). A complete list of board members and their affiliations can be found in the appendix of this document.

The Board of Commissioners meets quarterly in March, June, September, and December and are open to the public. Meeting notices are published in the county newspapers one week before the meetings.

District Management

The Board of Commissioners oversees and ultimately approves all official and/or advisory planning activities. Under the Commission’s by-laws the forty-two member board retains all policy-making authority and can function between quarterly meetings via a seven member Executive Committee. Routine or day to day management of GWRPC is overseen by the Executive Director. Table 1 depicts the staffing at GWRPC.

Table 1

GWRPC STAFF

Sarah Mann………………………………………………………Executive Director

Kara Gill………………………………………………………………..Grant Writer

Suzanne Moudy…………………………………………………...Grant Coordinator

Crissy Thomas……………………………………………..Administrative Assistant

The Commission has seven standing committees which assist the board in managing administrative processes. The committees are as follows: Executive Committee (meets in- between board meetings to act upon urgent matters), Personnel Committee (updates the personnel policies, reviews grievances, and reviews salaries annually), Finance Committee (formulates an annual operating budget), Building Committee (meets as needed about building repairs), Tourism Committee (provide reports to the board at every meeting on tourism activities in the area), Revolving Loan Fund Committee (meets when a new RLF loan application is received and makes recommendations to the Board regarding all loan requests), CEDS Committee (meets yearly to develop the district CEDS document). A complete list of all committee members can be found in the Appendix.

The Commission’s General Activities

GWRPC’s primary concern is the preparation and implementation of the District’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The Commission also provides numerous other services to the seven county region such as: planning, technical assistance, and project development in the areas of community and economic development, transportation, housing, land use, public facilities, and natural resources.

The Commission provides grant writing and management for several programs such as the Community Development Assistance Program, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and EDA Public Works projects. Eligible projects include: public facilities (such as water and sewer), housing rehabilitation, recreation projects, and economic development.

Another one of the many services that GWRPC provides includes a Revolving Loan Fund which was established in 1993 by EDA and Rural Development to assist local businesses and promote economic development. Loans are based on job creation or retention; applicants may be eligible for $7500 per job with a maximum loan of $100,000. Since 1993, GWRPC has loaned out over $2 million for projects totaling over $13 million. As a result of the revolving loan fund, there have been over 500 jobs created, retained, or saved within the seven county region.

The Commission functions as a Regional Clearinghouse for the review of selected state and/or federally assisted projects originating within the seven-county region.

The Commission maintains an active association with regional economic development organizations such as Southeast Alliance of Illinois (SAIL) and Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) in addition to all local Economic Development Agencies.

The Seven County District

The Greater Wabash region is comprised of the rural Illinois counties of Crawford, Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, and White.

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Crawford, Lawrence, Wabash and White counties all border the State of Indiana on their eastern sides. The region’s center is located adjacent to a number of large metropolitan areas. The Greater Wabash Region is ideally located within a three to four hour commute to major metropolitan cities including Chicago, Illinois, Cincinnati, Ohio, Memphis, Tennessee, St. Louis, Missouri, and Louisville, Kentucky. Evansville, Indiana is located only 50 miles from the center of our region.

According to the State of Illinois Opportunity Returns, the counties of Edwards, Wabash, Wayne, and White are considered to be in the Economic Development Region of Southern Illinois while the three remaining counties of Crawford, Lawrence and Richland lie within the Southeast Economic Development Region.

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Opportunity Returns-Southern Region Opportunity Returns- Southeast Region

The Greater Wabash Region provides distribution lanes to major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville, and Memphis. Evansville, Indiana is located only 50 miles from the center of our region.

Table 2

Metropolitan Areas in Close Proximity to the District

Area Approximate Driving Hours

St. Louis 2.0

Louisville 2.5

Indianapolis 3.0

Nashville 4.0

Memphis 5.0

Chicago 5.0

Geographic

With the Wabash River flowing at the eastern border of the entire Region, the Greater Wabash area is characterized by a highly rural composition. Roughly covering 2,812 square miles, the Region has a total of 43 incorporated communities. Interstate 64 flows through White and Wayne counties, linking the Greater Wabash region with larger communities, such as Evansville, Indiana, Louisville, Kentucky and St. Louis, Missouri.

Climate The Greater Wabash Region has four distinct seasons and a moderate climate, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 32 F to 90 F. The summers are usually typified by hot, humid weather with highs reaching the upper 90’s, and moderate cold winters with night-time lows averaging in the teens. The average precipitation totals approximately 43 inches of rain and 14 inches of snow.

The Region’s relatively mild climate poses no significant hindrance to economic development efforts. This factor could, in fact, allow for a much more diverse agricultural sector of the local economy. The growing season lasts about 190 to 200 total days. The Average regional climate in the area is as follows: Summer- 78 degree Fahrenheit, Winter- 32 degree Fahrenheit. The area receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall and 14 inches of snow annually.

Labor Force

The Greater Wabash Region is comprised of 19% population over the age of 65 and 32% under the age of 25, leaving 49% of the Region in the “prime” labor force age groups. The current work force represents 49% of the Region’s population. This signifies that the potential for labor force growth within the population is possible. As the Region’s poverty rates would indicate, there is a population of able-bodied individuals that are receiving financial assistance.

In 2004, a person was considered to be below the poverty line if their income was less than $10,250 for one and $11,700, $13,200, $14,460, $15,800, $17,000, $18,150, $19,300 for families of 2, 3, 4,5,6,7, and 8 persons or more, respectively.

Table 3

Percentage of Population in Selected Age Groups- 2000

|Location |Age 0-17 |Age 18-24 |Age 25-44 |Age 45-64 |Age 65+ | |Crawford |

|2000 Population |20,452 | 6,971 |15,452 |16,149 |12,937 |17,151 |15,371 |

|% change from 1990 |+ 5.1 |- 6.3 |- 3.3 |- 2.4 |- 1.3 |- 0.5 |- 7 |

|Land area Square Miles |444 |222 |372 |360 |223 |714 |495 |

|Person Per Square Mile |46.1 |31.4 |41.5 |44.9 |58 |24 |31 |

District Problems and Opportunities

Opportunities

The Greater Wabash District has several strengths to rely on to create growth in the area. The District is strategically located in the Midwest with a major interstate highway that runs through it. This helps to attract potential industrial, commercial, and business development. The District also has the potential to have good broadband Internet technology and communication services through the Connect SI project. Technology is continually being upgraded within the district. The District can also boast that it has a good quality of life, which is evident by low crime rates, less congestion, lower cost of living and a strong work ethic.

There are many opportunities for growth within the Greater Wabash District. However, industrial parks could be one of the biggest opportunities for growth in the Region. There are several industrial parks that are already developed and can accommodate businesses as well as several that are being developed. As evidenced by the figures in the Table 15, the Region has several industrial parks.

Table 15

Greater Wabash District Industrial Parks

|Location |Name |Acres |

|Albion |Eastgate |54 |

|Albion |Southgate |5 |

|Bridgeport |Lawrence County Industrial Park |35 |

|Carmi |East Industrial Park |20 |

|Carmi |West Industrial Park |full |

|Fairfield |Hwy 45,South, Industrial Park |125 |

|Fairfield |Southwest Industrial park |38 |

|Fairfield |West Industrial Park |8 |

|Grayville |Grayville Industrial Park |20 |

|Lawrenceville |Lawrenceville Industrial Park |176 |

|Lawrence County |Mid-American Air Center Industrial park |160 |

|Mount Carmel |Southgate |15 |

|Olney |Industrial |88 |

|Olney |West Industrial Park |53 |

|Richland County |West 50 |80 |

|Robinson |Ridgeway Industrial Park |80 |

|Wayne City |Wayne City Industrial Park |full |

One potential opportunity lies within the 371 acres in Lawrence County. The Mid-American Air Center Industrial Park is located within the airport, which has a total acreage of 3,000, making it the third largest airport complex in Illinois. There are more than 15 industries and businesses already located there, and Foreign Trade Zone #146 is based there. This presents a tremendous potential for further development, especially for the aircraft industry. The Mid-American Air Center is currently completing a flood plain mitigation study and intends to seek additional monies to expand their industrial park and develop a small business incubator, which will be geared toward aviation-linked ventures.

In Richland County, the City of Olney and the Richland County Development Corporation have enrolled the community in two special marketing programs, which are designed to assist in attracting new industries. One attraction is a 10-acre site in the West Industrial Park, which has undergone preliminary site approvals from state agencies along with soil boring evaluations for building suitability. Also a new 60,000 square foot industrial building has been completed. The City of Olney has been extremely successful in filling its two industrial parks. They are now seeking funding for infrastructure for a third industrial park.

In Wayne County, the Village of Wayne City has sold their entire industrial park to a business venture that hopes to bring an ethanol plant to their area. This leaves them without ground for an industrial prospect should one desire to locate there. Several opportunities for growth exist in Wayne County should the ethanol plant begin construction. The City of Fairfield is anticipating the increased water usage and will begin construction of a lake to accommodate the 2mgd ethanol plant. The lake could potentially be developed to include boat docks, campgrounds, and picnic areas. There is also the possibility of a subdivision being built around the lake. With the increased use of water, the City of Fairfield will also need to build a new filter plant to treat 5 million gallons of water a day. Also to service the proposed ethanol plant, there would be the development of railroad infrastructure. In addition to the development related to the ethanol plant, the City of Fairfield would also like to develop one of their industrial parks as well as set-up a TIF district in the park.

Other growth in the Greater Wabash District includes Crawford County, where Marathon Petroleum is expanding their business and will potentially create 1000 temporary construction jobs and a possibility of several long term jobs. In addition, Rides Mass Transit is expected to create 15-20 jobs in Crawford County.

Several opportunities for growth are becoming realized within White County. Within the next year, construction of a 400MW coal-fired power plant and a 60 million gallon ethanol plant will begin. The need for new and upgraded infrastructure will be essential to these projects. The coal-fired power plant is expected to create upwards of 800 construction jobs and 70 permanent jobs. The ethanol plant will create approximately 300 construction jobs and 60 permanent jobs. Additional trucking jobs will also be created with both planned facilities. With the new ethanol plant and power plant, White County will need industrial park space to house potential spin-off businesses. White County is home to two industrial parks. The City of Carmi has an industrial park with tracts as small as ten acres and as large as two hundred acres. The City of Grayville has a twenty acre park fully completed with street lightening and all utilities. Rides Mass Transit District is currently building a facility in the Grayville Industrial Park. Grayville also has a 249 acre prison site that has been on hold for several years. If this land is released, they would have a large amount of space available for potential growth.

Several projects have been projected as future economic development investment opportunities in the region. Counties that are looking to increase their industrial park space or develop the space they currently have available include: Lawrence, Wayne, Richland, and Crawford. Other future opportunities include the development of a Marina in Richland County, the construction of ethanol plants in White and Wayne Counties, development of a lake in Wayne County, development of a subdivision in Wayne County, development of a biodiesel plant in Wabash County, development of a small business incubator in Wabash County, and development of broadband service in the entire Greater Wabash Region via the project Connect SI. All these projects are listed in the County Specific Goals and Objectives Section of this CEDS.

Agricultural related opportunities always exist within the Greater Wabash region. There are several specialty crops that have been tried or are currently being tried including pumpkins, cantaloupe, tobacco, popcorn and canola. Farmers can exploit these crops and could even include some type of tourist attraction with the farm.

Another opportunity for the Greater Wabash Region is the hunting/wildlife industry. Within the seven county region, there are several hunting outfitters bringing several hundreds of hunters to the region every year. These hunters bring additional revenue to the area and also could lead to the development of other businesses to accommodate this growing industry. There could be a potential for industry related retail stores, restaurants, and hotels if this industry continues to grow at the same rate. There are more than ten hunting preserves located in the Greater Wabash Region including following:

Buckhorn Wildlife Preserve- Richland County

Fox Creek Outfitters- Richland County

Pine Lodge Outfitters- Richland County

Richland County Pheasant Hunting Area- Richland County

TNT Game Preserve- Wayne County

Lakewood Sporting Clays- Wayne County

Campbell Resources Hunting Lodge- White County

Lamont Outdoors, L.L.C. - White County

Skillet Fork Outfitters- White County

Southern Illinois Outfitters- White County

Tourism creates a major opportunity within the Greater Wabash Region. Southeastern Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau serves the Greater Wabash Region’s tourism marketing and technical assistance needs. Tourism development has been identified as one source of enhancing the economic potential of the Greater Wabash Region. The Southeastern Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau produces a visitor guide which enhances tourism by highlighting the many festivals, parades, bed and breakfasts, and the historical sites located across this region. The festivals and events in the region attract thousands to the area and bring in much needed revenue for the local economy. Each area’s Chamber of Commerce, along with the Southeastern Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau maintain a current calendar of events which are available to assist tourists.

The following table lists some of the major tourist attractions in the Greater Wabash region.

|Table 16 |

|Tourism in the Greater Wabash Region |

|Crawford County: |

|Palestine is home to the first U.S. land grant office in this territory and issued a land grant for 102 acres on the western side of Lake|

|Michigan for $1.25 per acre. Today we know these 102 acres as the Chicago loop. |

|Palestine hosts annual Professional Championship Rodeo on Labor Day weekend. |

|Palestine is also home to the Pioneer Winery offering wine, wine making classes, and wine making kits. |

|Oblong hosts one of only seven oil field museums in the nation. |

|Robinson is the home of the famous Heath Bar. Purchased by Hershey’s, this chocolate factory was the birthplace for the Heath Candy Bar. |

|Crawford County State Fish and Wildlife Area features 1,129 acres of outdoor enchantment, along with eight stocked fishing ponds, hiking,|

|and horseback trails. Some in-season hunting is also available. |

|Robinson is home to three golf courses including Quail Creek County Club and Resort, Oak Glen County Club and Deer Run Par 3 Golf Course.|

|Museums include the Hutson Memorial Village Museum Cabin, Crawford Co. VFW Post 4549 Military Museum and Memorial Wall, The Crawford |

|County Historical Museum, and the Oil Field Museum at Oblong. |

|Belle Vue Farms features 100% Pure Maple Syrup as well as other Maple products. |

|Edwards County |

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|Edwards County has a rich and proud history, which includes many firsts in the State of Illinois. |

|The first public library founded in 1819 is located in Albion. |

|The first Chamber of Commerce, the first consolidated school district and the first county fair are all located in Albion as well. |

|In West Salem, the only Moravian Church located in Illinois was founded in 1849. |

|Crowned “Castle on the Prairie” by the March, 2000 Prairie Farmer magazine, the Edwards County Courthouse in Albion is the centerpiece of|

|the community. |

|The Edwards County Historical Society Museum is an 1850s residence that was the birthplace of Louis Lincoln Emmerson, Governor of |

|Illinois from 1929-1933. |

|Bone Gap Railroad depot is restored and holds a collection of artifacts from Bone Gap’s early days. |

|Albion- “Chowder Capital of the World” |

|Lawrence County |

|Lawrence County is home to the Red Hills State Park. The park offers visitors camping, fishing, and is host to many festivals in the park|

|throughout the year. |

|Race fans can make plans for stock car racing each Saturday night at the Sumner Raceway south of Sumner from April thru October. |

|The Lincoln Memorial Bridge and the Lincoln Trail Monument now commemorate the site where in 1830 a young Abraham Lincoln and his family |

|first entered Illinois. |

|General George Rogers Clark attacked and defeated the British at Fort Vincennes during the Revolutionary War. |

|White Owl Winery located in Birds has award winning fruit wines, along with champagne and other locally grown food products, and offers |

|tours of the winery and seasonal entertainment. |

|The Black Jewell Popcorn farm produces black kernels of corn that pop to the whitest most delicious popcorn. |

|Benson Blueberries offers pick your own or purchase at roadside blueberries in mid-summer. |

|Richland County |

|The City of Olney is home of the famous white squirrels. The white squirrels were first introduced in the early 1900’s and have |

|flourished in the city since that time. These albino animals can be seen throughout the city parks and are an attraction for everyone |

|who visits the city. |

|East Fork Lake is also a tourist attraction for the City of Olney. This lake is popular with boaters and fishers and other water sport |

|enthusiasts. |

|Richland Country Club located in Olney is an 18 hole country club with a clubhouse and driving range. |

|The Heritage House and the Carnegie Museum are both located in Olney and offers tours and are open on Sundays. |

|Fox Creek Winery and Vineyards are located on a farm settled in the early 1890s. |

|Berryville Vineyards is located among the rolling hills of Richland County. |

|Wabash County |

|Beall Woods State Park is located in Wabash County at Keensburg and is a National Landmark and listed as the “Forest of the Wabash.” |

|Visitors can hike four different trails, each with its own unique ecosystem. |

|Theatre patrons will enjoy the Wabash Valley Arts Council’s Performing Arts Series. Events are held in the Brubeck Auditorium at Wabash |

|Valley Junior College. The college host several national theatre groups such as The National Shakespeare Company, Glenn Miller Orchestra|

|and Guy Lombardo’s Royal Canadians. |

|The Living Legacy Farmstead is a tourist attraction and host “Good Old Days” each June. In the fall, visitors will enjoy navigating the |

|5-acre |

|Wabash County Museum features local history and culture. |

|Mt. Carmel hosts the annual “Wabash Ribberfest” which is a BBQ Championship Cook-off. The event is a qualifying competition for the |

|nationwide Memphis in May BBQ Competition. |

|Wayne County |

| |

|Sam Dale Conservation Area is one of Southeastern Illinois’ most beautiful State Parks. This 1300-acre park boasts a 194-acre lake |

|featuring over eight miles of shoreline. Hiking, camping, boating, swimming, hunting, and fishing are just a few of the activities in |

|which visitors can take part. In 1998 over 157,000 visitors came to the State Park to enjoy the activities. |

|Leo French Park, located in Fairfield, is another place to relax and enjoy the many activities throughout the year, including bluegrass |

|festivals and a covered bridge. |

|Frey Farms and Shreve’s Pumpkin Patch both harvest and sell pumpkins and offer tourist attractions. |

|Early History Museum- located at Fairfield Public Library features items from the 1800s to the early 1900s. |

|Hanna House Museum features items from 1920s to the present. |

|White County |

| |

|White County is home to a wealth of historic homes, museums and sites. Including Ratcliff Museum, L. Haas Store Museum, Matsel Cabin, |

|One-Room Country Schoolhouse, and the Robinson Stewart Museum. |

|Burell Woods State Park, located in Carmi is an excellent area for campers, hikers, and bikers. |

|Parachutes over Carmi- a tandem and solo parachute facility located at the Carmi Airport. |

|Grayville Railroad depot is accompanied by an Illinois Central caboose that can be found on the riverfront. |

|Wabash Paddlefest- Canoe down the Wabash River from Grayville to New Harmony, IN during this annual event. |

|Grayville hosts the Bluegrass Festival every summer at Memorial Park. |

The Greater Wabash region is home to many large employers including food industries, automotive equipment, health care, etc. A strength of the region is that the employment is diversified and can aid in the recruitment of new businesses to the area. A diversified business sector does not allow a certain label to be placed on the area and restrict the kinds of businesses that would be willing to locate in the area. The major employers in the Greater Wabash Region include the following:

Major Employers in Crawford County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|Hershey Chocolate USA |Candy |700 |

|E.H. Baare |Wire |210 |

|Marathon Petroleum |Refinery |590 |

|Robinson Correctional Center |Corrections |300 |

|Dana Sealing Products Corporation |Gaskets |350 |

|Crawford Memorial Hospital |Health Care |250 |

|Community Schools/Colleges |Education |600 |

|Fair-Rite Product |Electronic Shields |200 |

|Tempco Products |Aluminum and Vinyl Doors and Windows |120 |

|Data Max/Pioneer |Labels |85 |

|Lincolnland Agri-Energy |Ethanol |33 |

|Illiana Cores |Cardboard Cores |17 |

Major Employers in Edwards County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|Champion Laboratories |Automotive Filters |2400 |

|Wabash Valley Service Company |Agriculture Service |200 |

|Kasha Industries |Plastics |100 |

|Pallet Solution |Recycling |60 |

|Huff Sealing |Road/Asphalt Service |40 |

Major Employers in Lawrence County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|Automotive Technology Systems, LLC |Automotive Supplies |700 |

|Mid-America Air Center |Air Services |600 |

|Lawrence Correctional Center |Corrections |500 |

|Golden Rule Insurance |Insurance |340 |

|Community School Systems |Education |339 |

|Rucker’s Wholesale |Candy |135 |

|United Methodist Village |Retirement Home |216 |

|Lawrence County Memorial Hospital |Health Care |170 |

|Global Wire Technologies |Wires |95 |

|CLC Pine Lawn Manor |Retirement Home |83 |

|Wal-Mart |Retail |85 |

|Lawrence Community Health Care Center |Health Care |80 |

|Red Hill Healthcare Center |Health Care |67 |

|McKim’s IGA |Retail Food |65 |

|Lawrenceville Manor |Retirement Home |65 |

|ERG Illinois |Energy |59 |

|Pioneer Oil |Energy |55 |

|Central Cigar & Candy Co. |Candy |30 |

|Agrigold Hybrids |Agriculture Service |30 |

|Team Energy, LLC |Energy |33 |

Major Employers in Richland County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|Wal-mart Food Distribution Center |Distribution Center |850 |

|Richland Memorial Hospital |Health Care |450 |

|East West School Districts |Education |388 |

|Wal-mart Super-Center |Retail |300 |

|Olney Central College |Education |226 |

|Pacific Cycle |Bicycles |225 |

|Schneider National Trucking |Transportation |178 |

|Prairie Farms Dairy |Dairy |107 |

|Weber Clinic |Health Care |100 |

|Weinmann Sport |Bicycle Rims |96 |

|Master Halco, Inc. |Vinyl/Steel Fencing |80 |

|Richland Mfg. Company |Automotive Parts |70 |

|Molding Systems Corp. |Plastic |62 |

|Imperial Trailer Mfg. Inc. |Trailer Manufacturing |33 |

Major Employers in Wabash County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|Wabash Mine |Mining |250 |

|Mt. Carmel Schools |Education |250 |

|Wabash Valley College |Education |230 |

|Wabash County Hospital |Health Care |200 |

|Pacific Press and Shear Company |Metal Forming Equipment |65 |

|Friendsville Mine |Strip Mining |55 |

|Cooling Systems Technology, Inc. | |53 |

|Wabash Asphalt |Asphalt |30 |

Major Employers in Wayne County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|AirTex Products, Inc. |Automotive parts |750 |

|Fairfield Memorial Hospital |Health Care |350 |

|Web Printing Control |Service |75 |

|Southern Illinois Primary Care Associates |Health Care |30 |

|Wayne County Press |Newspaper/Press |35 |

|Walters Buildings |Construction |25 |

|Morton Buildings |Construction |17 |

|Gordy’s Machine and Tool |Service |17 |

Major Employers in White County

|Company |Products or Service |Number Employed |

|White County Coal |Coal Mine |231 |

|Martin & Bayley, Inc. |Food Distributor |112 |

|Trelleborg YSH |Rubber |210 |

|Wal-Mart Super-Center |Retail |200 |

|First Bank |Banking |50 |

|Hoosier Stamping |Automotive Parts |40 |

|Elastec |Oil Service |22 |

Problems

Within the Greater Wabash region, a major weakness that plays a significant role is the population decline. There has been a significant population loss over the last decade which can be viewed by referring back to Table 10. Some of this population loss can be attributed to “youth brain drain”. Brain drain occurs when the region loses college graduates to other areas with higher skilled job opportunities or more knowledge based economies. Another problem is that the population that remains in the region is aging. Referring back to Table 3, the number of 18-24 year olds in the region is startlingly low. Over the next several years, the population will consist mainly of retirement age. An aging population poses several problems and affects many areas including workforce, health care, and housing.

The region has been in a steady decline for some time. We are not creating high skill/high wage jobs and the traditional low wage/low skill jobs are moving overseas or being replaced by technology. According to the Illinois Workforce Investment Act Implementation there is a need for the analysis of skill shortage occupations that pay a good wage and analysis of the on-the-job factors which lead to a shortage. Once analyzed, influencing of education facilities to redirect training toward these shortage areas will be needed. Therefore, a plan is needed in the District to identify skill shortages and training needs. Other problems identified include low paying wages (entry average wages are at poverty level for a head of household and two children). The Crossroads Workforce Investment Board which includes Lawrence, Richland, and Crawford counties is preparing to do an extensive regional "Quality of Life" study and a 4 cities "Workforce Summit" that will include all stakeholders and a designated time for a "World Cafe'" small group discussion and feedback session. The study is scheduled for June 2007.

Another major weakness of the District is the fact that the area does not have a developed small business incubator system. The atmosphere of the district is not as conducive to small businesses as other districts in the vicinity. Small businesses do not have all the resources that could be available to them. This poses a big problem for economic growth in the District. A favorable business climate is fundamental for a healthy economy.

There is also a lack of adequate public facilities and basic infrastructure. Water and sewer systems are in need of repair and many municipalities do not have the funding to keep their facilities in working order. Basic infrastructure is lacking within the region, including broadband technology. The region’s broadband penetration rate is many times below the national average.

The housing stock of the region needs to be assessed as to the quality of the homes. Affordable housing needs to be made available to the at-risk population.

Healthcare remains a vital industry within the region; however, millions of dollars is lost to neighboring states each year as people travel out of the area for services. Healthcare dollars need to be recaptured into Illinois.

Floodplain areas remain a problem in the region. There are several areas that cannot be developed because they are located within a floodplain.

The region is plagued with a perception that things will never get any better. Negative attitudes inhibit the growth of the region and can eventually lead to further devastation of the area. Some of the region is also reluctant to change or except new ideas. The area is generally made up of non risk-takers who want to maintain the status quo. However, it is evident by the population decline that maintaining the status quo is not possible.

Economic Clusters

Several economic clusters exist within the region including warehousing/distribution, mining, and plastics. However, the largest cluster in the Greater Wabash district is the automotive industry. There are several automotive related companies within the district including the following:

|Company |Product or Service |County |

|Automotive Technology Systems, LLC |Interior Automotive Trim |Lawrence |

|Richland Mfg. Co. |Metal Stamps |Richland |

|Olney Manufacturing and Design |Tool and Die Equipment |Richland |

|Xenia Manufacturing |Parts for Automotive Lighting Systems |Richland |

|Champion Laboratories |Filters |Edwards |

|Willy’s Carburetor and Dyno Shop |Carburetors |Wabash |

|Cooling Systems Technology, Inc. |Radiator Parts |Wabash |

|B & D Independence |Custom Mobility Lifts |Wabash |

|Trelleborg YSH |Rubber |White |

|Dana Sealing Products Corporation |Gaskets |Crawford |

|AirTex Products, Inc. |Fuel Delivery and Cooling System Products |Wayne |

|Hoosier Wheel & Stamping |Wheels |White |

Greater Wabash District Goals and Objectives

|Goal 1: New Job Generation- Reduce unemployment and underemployment by promoting and attracting quality employment positions into the |

|Region. Increase Knowledge Based Employment in the Region |

|Objective: Get the Region’s unemployment rate (currently 5.5%) equal to or below the State of Illinois’ level (currently 4.5%) by the |

|year 2012. Increase Broadband penetration rate in order to attract knowledge based employment. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Continue to Diversify and increase opportunities in the industrial sector by working with local governments to help them provide needed|

|resources to businesses. |

|-Provide support in the exploration and expansion of high speed internet and broadband technology for the entire District. |

|-Promote the expansion of broadband service throughout the region to aid in the development of technology and knowledge based employment.|

| |

|-Provide technical support to area educational facilities in upgrading the skill level of the region’s labor force. |

|- Pursue the development of business through the expansion of industrial parks and sites in the region. |

|- Expand the development of business through the development of TIF districts and Enterprise Zones in the region. |

|- Use the regional and local Revolving Loan Fund Programs and other state and federal business loan programs to Induce economic |

|development within the district. |

|-Utilize the revolving loan funds and other economic development programs to lower the Region’s unemployment rate. |

|Goal 2: Modernization and Expansion of Community Facilities- Continue to maintain, modernize and expand public utilities including |

|existing or nonexistent water and sewer systems, assist in obtaining funds for the construction of community buildings, jail facilities, |

|courthouse renovations, and assist local governments and water districts to comply with regulations. |

|Objective: Develop and maintain the Region’s infrastructure. Increase the availability of the area’s water supply and transmission |

|capabilities by assisting at least two communities a year to receive funding for planning or implementation of a water or sewer project. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Improve municipal water systems by continually assessing their status with respect to their ability to support the continued growth of |

|the District. |

|-Provide technical assistance to local government in identifying state and federal assistance programs to modernize their water supplies |

|and transmission capabilities. |

|-Improve rural water district’s systems |

|- Continually assess the status of wastewater collection, treatment and disposal systems and their ability to accommodate the region’s |

|growth. |

|-Provide technical assistance to local government in identifying state and federal assistance to help finance wastewater collection and |

|treatment system improvements. |

|-Provide technical assistance to local government to aid in the financing of construction and/or upgrading of community centers and Jail |

|Facilities |

|Goal 3: Improve the quality and quantity of the local housing stock. |

|Objective: Continually upgrade the region’s housing stock by assisting at least one community by the year 2012 to receive funding for |

|housing rehabilitation. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Promote the utilization of public housing to meet the public housing needs throughout the Region. |

|- Promote housing rehabilitation projects for low-to-moderate income persons utilizing programs such as the Illinois Community |

|Development Assistance Program. |

|Goal 4: Strengthen Municipal and County Governments- Assist local units of government to stay abreast of new legislation and assist in |

|the promotion of new technical improvements in order to provide the District’s residents with up-to-date police and fire protection. |

|Objective: Provide technical assistance to units of local government. Provide assistance to every county in applying for funding |

|assistance for local government. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Provide yearly meetings with each county to keep them abreast of new programs and opportunities. |

|-Act as a liaison to promote local needs at the state and federal level. |

|- Work with local governments to obtain state and federal funding for community facility projects. |

|-Promote County-wide 911 communications systems and networking for multi-county systems. |

|-Promote the modernization of local fire fighter, ambulance, and police equipment. |

|-Continue to provide technical assistance to firefighting and emergency service organizations within the district to identify state and |

|federal funding assistance for trained personnel and modern equipment and facilities. |

|Goal 5: Promote Tourism |

|Objective: Expand the area through the promotion of tourism. Provide technical assistance to every county in applying for funding for |

|tourism related projects. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Coordinate with tourism groups to market the region. |

|- Work with Southeastern Illinois Tourism and Convention Bureau |

|-Provide technical assistance to units of local government to help them stay abreast of funding opportunities for tourism such as parks |

|and recreation, boating, and walking trails through the Department of Natural Resources. |

|Goal 6: Promote Natural Resources- Assist local governments to promote and businesses to utilize the natural resources of the District |

|and promote the diversification of the agriculture and agribusiness industries. |

|Objective: Sustain and further develop the agriculture/agribusiness industries within the region. |

|Action Plan: |

|- Promote the development of ethanol and biodiesel plants in the region. |

|Promote crop diversification and cropping alternatives within the region. |

|Promote the hunting industry |

|Goal 7: Maintain and modernize the District’s transportation facilities that are essential for private-sector investment. |

|Objective: Continually develop a transportation system that provides safe, efficient and economical movement of people and goods in the |

|Region. |

|Action Plan: |

|-Offer support to the Department of Transportation as needed to provide adequate roads |

|within the District. |

|-Provide technical assistance to local governments in coordinating efforts to build the region’s |

|rail system. |

|-Continue to assist the District’s airports in developing their services. |

| |

Community and Private Sector Participation

The CEDS was developed by the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission and the CEDS committee. The committee, comprised of seven Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission, GWRPC, board members, two community representatives, and two GWRPC staff members, helped to create this CEDS document. The committee’s board members represent each of the seven counties in the District. The committee has been revised due to changes in guidelines and is now comprised of board members, two staff, and two private representatives not affiliated with GWRPC. The CEDS committee was offered a draft copy of the CEDS document and was encouraged to critique it prior to submission.

At the request of the committee, the GWRPC staff traveled to each of the seven counties in the district to seek additional input into the CEDS document. Private sector participation was encouraged through the publication of such meetings in the county newspapers. Several private sector individuals attended the county meetings to add their input into the CEDS. A list of these individuals can be found in the appendix of this document.

The CEDS committee not only sought the input of the private sector but also will rely on them to help bring the suggested projects to reality. The public sector in the Greater Wabash District works very well with the private sector to help bring economic development to the region. There are currently several projects taking place that involve the public sector working actively with the private sector. Maintaining this relationship will be key to the success of the district. Two such examples are the ethanol plants in Wayne and White Counties. The City of Fairfield is working actively to provide adequate water to the ethanol plant in Wayne County whereas the City of Grayville is actively working to private gas lines to the ethanol plant in White County.

District-Wide County Specific Strategic Projects and Activities

The following is a county specific listing of suggested projects for the Greater Wabash District. Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission will provide assistance to all the counties for the potential execution of the suggested projects.

Crawford County Suggested Projects

County

➢ Extension of Robinson-Palestine Airport

➢ Promote tourism

➢ Active revitalization of retail businesses

➢ Facilitate Rental Housing Assistance Program

➢ New roof on community building

Robinson

➢ Develop and attract business

➢ Promote tourism

➢ Housing Rehabilitation

➢ New sewer plant

➢ Upgrade developed industrial park

Hutsonville

➢ Refurbish building on Main St. including Library

➢ Housing Rehabilitation

➢ Build new sewer plant

➢ Add restrooms at the boat ramp

➢ New Police Car

Palestine

➢ Artist Relocation Program

➢ Replace pumps at Sewage plant

➢ Start Farmer’s Market

➢ Rebuild Fort Lamont

➢ Distribution of cleaner water in Palestine

➢ Opera House Restoration

➢ Build Boat Ramp

➢ New roof for Sheriff’s Department

Flat Rock

➢ Sewage treatment plant expansion

Oblong

➢ Housing Rehabilitation

➢ Build Skate Park

➢ Upgrade Oil Field Museum

Edwards County Suggested Projects

County

➢ Develop outdoor recreational area

➢ Business retention and expansion survey

➢ Develop housing

➢ Regional Tourism Effort

➢ Ellery Water Corporation water tower upgrades/replacement

➢ Ellery Water Corporation disaster plan

➢ Ellery Water Corporation tie into other water districts

➢ Bunpas Creek Water District- water treatment facility

Albion

➢ New water and sewer lines on Elm St.

➢ Build additional water tower

➢ Build on to existing firehouse

➢ Purchase new fire truck

➢ Wind mill project with EC school system

➢ Attract new businesses to the area

➢ Increase middle class housing

➢ Improve/ recreational facilities

➢ Walking path in Albion City Park

West Salem

➢ Water Main replacement from West St. to the Water Tower in West Salem

➢ More employment

Lawrence County Suggested Projects

County

➢ Develop Tourism Trail with map

➢ Develop Mid-America Air Center Industrial Park, build lake to solve floodplain

➢ Route 50 into a 4-lane highway

➢ Attract an ethanol or biodiesel plant

➢ New community building

➢ Improved water systems (storage capacity, mains, emergency back-up generators)

Lawrenceville

➢ Build New Jail, add on a 40 cell dormitory (have a feasibility study done and have plans to completed) not enough taxes to cover cost.

➢ Water Supply- Need water treatment plant and additional transmission line from Water Treatment Plant to the other end of the county.

➢ Construct River Walk along river in Lawrenceville

➢ Develop (repair and fix) levy system on the east side to help airport and residents

➢ Finish infrastructure at Lawrenceville Industrial Park, get additional funding for floodplain study

➢ Upgrade sewer treatment plant

➢ Get more industry to increase tax base

St. Francisville

➢ Upgrade park and camping water and electric, Playground equipment for parks

➢ Elderly apartments and housing

Sumner

➢ New Water Tower

➢ New water and sewer lines

➢ New community building

➢ Sewer treatment plant phase 3

Richland County Suggested Projects

County

➢ Rt. 50 developed into 4-lane highway from HWY 57 to Lawrenceville

➢ Rt. 130 improvements needed

➢ Build Boat ramp and Boat dock at East Fork Lake

➢ Build Marina at East Fork Lake

➢ Build Boat ramp and Boat dock at Borah Lake

➢ Improvements to the seawall at the sailboat area at East Fork Lake

Noble

➢ Sewer System Extension

➢ Homeland Security

West Liberty/Dundas

➢ Sanitary Sewer System upgrades

Olney

➢ Continued improvements to facilities at Olney/Noble Airport.

➢ Attract businesses to empty retail buildings (Old Richland County Mall)

➢ Develop neighborhood parks

➢ Green movement- Designated car pooling locations, recycling to attract industry, alternative fuels, bike paths, bike racks.

➢ Develop elderly housing/low income housing (Section 8)

➢ Additional police officer for high school

➢ Upgrade and repair water and waste water treatment plants and collections/distribution systems

➢ Improve emergency service communications, ongoing improvements to 911

➢ Road repairs in town

➢ Repair roof and parking lot at Pacific Cycle

➢ Develop a new industrial park

➢ Improvements to broadband and cell phone services

Wabash County Suggested Projects

Wabash County

➢ Increase average wage in Wabash County

➢ New Wabash River Bridge

➢ Develop E-85 Biodiesel fuel manufacturing plant

➢ Develop hunting industry

➢ Develop local tourism

➢ Provide reliable broadband internet

Mount Carmel

➢ Increase funding for Economic Development projects

➢ Develop infrastructure for new business development on Westside of town

➢ Build a road that connects Route #1 and Route #15 on Westside of town

➢ Rt. 15 improvements for Westside development

➢ Develop Small Business incubator with Wabash Valley College

➢ More day care facilities

➢ Develop recreational facilities (health club)

➢ Develop housing for Wabash Valley College

➢ Build tax base

➢ Develop big business mentor system

➢ Attract technology related services and businesses

➢ Promote warehousing locations

➢ Build overpass on east side of town

➢ Develop Rt. #1 into 4-lane

➢ Replace ladder truck at fire department

➢ Replace stop lights on Market St.

➢ Repair sewage inflow problems on the south side of the community

Bellmont

➢ New pumps and lift stations for sewer plant

➢ Community shelter house at park

➢ Community Emergency Shelter

Wayne County Suggested Projects

Wayne County

➢ Rt. 45 developed into 4-lane highway

➢ Develop County Wide Emergency Dispatch System/Center

➢ Planning and Updating 911 system (new system along with new signs for roads)

➢ Railroad infrastructure to ethanol plant

➢ Extension to Jasper Water works Phase III (Elm River Township)

Fairfield

➢ Develop new lake reservoir approximately 300-350 acres for water supply, annex lake into the city and develop campgrounds/boat docks

➢ Upgrade water tower

➢ Water line replacements

➢ Develop industrial park on US HWY 45

➢ Build Additional water tower in conjunction with Industrial Park on US HWY 45

➢ Upgrade side channel reservoir

➢ Build new filter plant to treat 5 million gallons of water per day

➢ New water lines through town

➢ Develop TIF #3 for Industrial Park

➢ Housing for Frontier Community College

➢ Continue Municipal Airport upgrades

➢ New City police cars and computers

Wayne City

➢ Develop a subdivision

➢ More Community Planning

➢ Attract new industry

➢ Aid in development of 1-2 mgd Ethanol Plant

➢ Water Line developments for Ethanol plant

➢ Construct new ambulance/fire building

Cisne

➢ Water plant upgrades

White County Suggested Projects

County

➢ Develop a 400 MW Coal-fired power plant – 70 jobs to be created

➢ Develop a 60 million gallon ethanol plant – 60 jobs to be created

➢ Expand broadband services

➢ Make improvements to Route 1 Highway

Carmi

➢ Develop TIF districts within the City to aid in economic development

➢ Reopen hospital – 100 jobs to be created

➢ Increase availability of affordable housing

➢ Carmi Senior Citizens

Grayville

➢ Develop TIF district to aid in economic development

➢ Create municipal gas line to aid in development of ethanol plant.

➢ Promote the Grayville Industrial Park to aid in private-sector investments

➢ Replace water lines

➢ Upgrade storm water and sewer lines so they are not combined

➢ Add telemetry on water and lift stations

➢ Upgrade playground equipment at city park

➢ Build new library

➢ Storm warning sirens

➢ Ambulance upgrade or new ambulance

Phillipstown

➢ Storm warning sirens

➢ Bridge maintenance

Enfield

➢ New Water Tower

Vital Projects

In order to enhance the region’s competitiveness, several vital projects exist. The region needs to develop the agribusiness industry and see that the ethanol plant projects are completed. The ethanol plants will generate several million dollars in revenue for the region and could possibly bring other development to the area. The industrial parks need to be finished and ready to be operational in order to attract these potential businesses. Another vital project for the area would be a small business incubator. A small business incubator system is vital for entrepreneurship in the Greater Wabash District.

However, to best enhance the region’s competitiveness, the region needs to first establish a sense of urgency as to the issues of challenges and opportunities. Challenges being the population decline and eroding tax base. Key resources need to be identified and leveraged. Projects in the Greater Wabash Region should center around leveraging key resources to stop the population decline. One way to accomplish this is through Knowledge Based Enterprises or KBEs. By stimulating the growth of technology based companies the Greater Wabash Region will decrease its “youth brain drain” and stop the population decline in turn increasing the total revenue for the region. Knowledge based jobs also generally tend to pay higher than typical manufacturing jobs which will increase the average wage within the region. Projects that will aid in the development of Knowledge Based Enterprises are projects that will increase the broadband penetration rate. Increasing the amount of broad band access within the region is a priority project.

By increasing the number of technology based jobs, the healthcare industry could also benefit. Increasing broadband access will also help to reclaim some of the dollars that are lost in healthcare. The healthcare industry needs to develop a plan of action, centered around technology, in order to reclaim lost revenue.

Maintaining and developing the region’s housing stock is also a priority. Residents need stable and affordable housing in order to be successful. Investments must be directed toward the preservation of existing housing and creation of new affordable housing assets. According to the Illinois Comprehensive Housing Plan, there are six specific priority underserved populations:

❖ Households earning below 50% of area median income

❖ Low-income seniors

❖ Low-income persons with disabilities

❖ Homeless persons and persons at risk of homelessness

❖ Low and moderate income persons unable to afford housing near work or transportation

❖ Low-income persons residing in existing affordable housing in danger of becoming unaffordable.

The Greater Wabash Region utilizes the State of Illinois criteria in prioritizing which communities will be offered assistance in seeking funding for housing.

Potential sources of funding for projects in the area include EDA, the State of Illinois (DCEO, USDA/RD), Delta Regional Authority, and private firms.

CEDS Plan of Action

The District has reformulated a multi-year District wide development strategy to increase the vitality of the seven county region. The goals of the Greater Wabash region include new job generation, modernization and expansion of community facilities including water, sewer and technology, improvements to housing, strengthening local governments, promoting tourism, promoting natural resources, and maintaining transportation systems.

The Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission staff and board will participate in a joint effort with other local and state agencies to achieve the goals set forth in this CEDS document. The GWRPC staff will pursue funding for suggested projects and utilize the district’s revolving loan funds to induce economic development.

Communication infrastructure is a critical component of the region’s ability to move products. In addition, it can make the difference in a companies decision whether or not to locate or relocate or expand operations within the region. Investment in the digital economy will likely increase productivity and standards of living. The increase in technology will also help to attract Knowledge Based Enterprises (KBE) to the district. Therefore, GWRPC will continue to work with the Connect SI project to increase broadband penetration rates in the District and increase the number of technology-based jobs. The project will seek investment in physical infrastructure such as broadband and wireless technology.

The District will aid Workforce Investment Boards in developing a plan that identifies job skill shortages and training needs that are unique to the Greater Wabash District.

Performance Measures

Performance measures for the period of April 1, 2007 through March 31, 2012 will be as follows:

❖ The number and types of investments made in the area after the implementation of the CEDS. Including the amount of private sector investment in the region.

❖ The number of new KBEs (knowledge based enterprises) that develop in the district as a result of the Connect SI project.

❖ An increase in the median household income level and the per capita income for the district to bridge the gap between the Region’s average and the State average.

❖ Population numbers: at least maintain the population at the current level. Stop population decline.

❖ Changes in the economic environment of the region measured through the increased participation of county and local government.

❖ The implementation of a small business incubator or other system that is conducive for small businesses.

❖ Increase in the broadband penetration rate.

Appendix

Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission Board of Commissioners

Crawford County

David Fulling- Elected Official- Crawford County Board

604 S. Franklin

Robinson, IL 62454

Phone: (618) 546-5659

John Suftin- Elected Official- Crawford County Board

403 E. 14th

Robinson, IL 62454

Phone: (618) 544-3596

Charles Rains- Elected Official- Crawford County Board

8157 E. 1700th St.

Robinson, IL 62454

Phone: (618) 569-4873

Robert Tuttle- Elected Official- Crawford County Board

19344 N. 1250th St.

Hutsonville, IL 62433

Phone: (618) 563-4330

Laquita Hasty- Employee City of Robinson

P.O. Box 188

Robinson, IL 62454

Phone: (618) 544-7616

Bob Berty- Private Representative-Economic Development Director

1008 Woodbine

Robinson, IL 62454

Phone: (618) 546-1412

Edwards County

Don Woods- Elected Official- Edwards County Board

RR ##

Ellery, IL 62833

Carson Rutger- Appointed Official- City of Albion Alderman

488 E. Walnut

Albion, IL 62806

Phone: (618) 445-2029

Charlotte St. Ledger- Private Representative

RR 1 Box 167

Albion, IL 62806

Phone: (618) 445-2371

Earl Frankland- Private Representative

RR1 Box 95

Albion, IL 62806

Phone: (618) 446-3290

Sam Arnold- Elected Official- Edwards County Board

732 Seminary

West Salem, IL 62476

Don Cornelius- Appointed Official- City of West Salem

433 S. New St.

West Salem, IL 62476

Phone: (618) 456-3487

Lawrence County

Betty Brian- Elected Official- Mayor Village of Sumner

301 Jones St.

Sumner, IL

Phone: (618) 936-2222

Kerry Emmons- Elected Official- Lawrence County Board

100 Lewis Ave.

Lawrenceville, IL 62439

Phone: (618) 943-6276

Allie DeLoriea- Private Representative

Box 57

Lawrenceville, IL 62439

Phone: (618) 943-2307

Charles Roth- Elected Official- Lawrence County Board

1301 Washington

Lawrenceville, IL 62439

Phone: (618) 943-4003

Rita Palmer- Elected Official- Lawrence County Board

RR#3

Sumner, IL 62466

Phone: (618) 945-2451

Richland County

Edward White- Private Representative

113 West Locust St.

Parkersburg, IL 62452

Phone: (618) 442-9108

David Berry- Employee- City of Olney Manager

300 South Whittle Ave.

Olney, IL 62450

Phone: (618) 395-7302

Mary Heitzig- Private Representative-Economic Development Director

503 E. Main St.

Olney, IL 62450

Phone: (618) 392-2305

Larry Miller- Post Secondary Education- Olney Central College

1303 Jonathan Drive

Olney, IL 62450

Phone: (618) 393-7231

Leo Ledeker- Elected Official- Richland County Board

651 Remington Rd.

Parkersburg, IL 62452

Phone: (618) 442-7754

Melissa Daniel- Workforce Development

503 East Main

Olney, IL

Phone: (618) 392-7630

Wabash County

Norm Brunson- Elected Official- City of Mount Carmel Commissioner

#3 Kingsway

Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

Craig Racster- Elected Official- Wabash County Board

19780 Wabash 20 Ave.

Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

Phone: (618) 262-8883

Phil Barnhard- Private Representative

224 E. 7th St.

Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

Jim Pfeister- Private Representative

403 W. 5th St.

Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

Phone: (618) 262-7116

William Hackler- Private Representative

Box 370

Mt. Carmel, IL 62863

Phone: (618) 262-5657

Fred Deadmond- Elected Official- Mayor City of Allendale

Box 111

Allendale, IL 62410

Phone: (618) 299-5251

Wayne County

Cynthia Grimes- Elected Official- Wayne County Board

Box 832

Fairfield, IL 62837

Phone: (618) 842-4420

Richard Talbert- Private Representative

RR2 Box 227

Wayne City, IL 62895

Phone: (618) 895-2107

Darrell Stephenson- Elected Official- Wayne County Board

RR#1 Box 83

Wayne City, IL 62895

Phone: (618) 895-2790

Royce Carter- Workforce Development

RR#3

Fairfield, IL 62837

Phone: (618) 842-9322

Scott Merkle- Private Representative

306 W. Parkhurst

Fairfield, IL 62837

Phone: (618) 842-2107

White County

JoEllen Seil- Economic Development Director

2200 South Court

P.O. Box 97

Grayville, IL 62844

Phone: (618) 375-2055

Economic Development Director

Steve Hartsock- Elected Official-

210 S. Third Street

Grayville, IL 62844

Phone: (618) 375-7502

Nancy Mitchell- Elected Official- White County Board

850 CR 2000E

Carmi, IL 62821

Phone: (618) 926-1501

Lyndle Barnes- Private Representative

215 E. North St.

P.O. Box 186

Grayville, IL 62844

Phone: (618) 375-2200

                                

David Campbell –Private Representative

609 W. Main

Carmi, IL 62821

Phone: (618) 382-5222

Scott Pugsley- Private Representative

1431 County Rd. 1225.N

Carmi, IL 62821

Phone: (618) 382-4666

Executive Committee:

Charlotte St. Ledger, Board Chairman

Jim Pfiester, Vice-Chairman

Scott Merkle, Secretary

Steve Hartsock, Treasurer

Kerry Emmons

Mary Heitzig

Bob Berty

Personnel Committee:

Carson Rutger- chairman

Laquita Hasty

Rita Palmer

Larry Miller

Fred Deadmond

Royce Carter

Nancy Mitchell

Finance Committee:

Steve Hartsock- chairman

Jr. Frankland

Betty Brian

Mary Heitzig

Phil Barnhard

Rich Talbert

JoEllen Seil

Building Committee:

Sam Arnold -chairman

Bob Tuttle

Chuck Roth

Leo Ledeker

Norm Brunson

Darrell Stephenson

David Campbell

Tourism Committee:

Jim Pfeister- chairman

John Sutfin

Don Woods

Chuck Roth

Ed White

Cynthia Grimes

Scott Pugsley

Revolving Loan Fund Committee:

Rich Talbert- chairman

David Fulling

Sam Arnold

Rita Palmer

Larry Miller

Bill Hackler

Lyndle Barnes

CEDS Committee:

Dave Berry –Public – Olney City Manager

Bob Berty- Private- Economic Development

Mary Heitzig – Private – Economic Development

Rich Talbert – Private – Business

Larry Miller- Higher Education- Olney Central College

JoEllen Seil – Private- Economic Development

Melissa Daniel- Workforce Development

Don Cornelius- Public- Village of West Salem

Phil Barnhard- Private- Business

Allie Deloriea- Private- Business

Royce Carter- Workforce Development

Community Participants:

Susan Murphy- Public- Fairfield Area Development Commission-Economic Development

Debbie Buchanan- Private- Lawrence County Industrial Council

Staff Participants:

Sarah Mann, Executive Director- GWRPC

Kara Gill, Grant Writer- GWRPC

CEDS Process Community Participants

Lawrence County

Bob Tracy- Lawrence Co. Industrial Council

Debbie Buchanan- Lawrence Co. Industrial Council

Rita Palmer- Lawrence County Board

Barbara Tussey- St. Francisville CIC

Charles Gillespie- Lawrence County Board

Kerry Emmons- Lawrence County Board/ GWRPC Board

Betty Brian- Mayor of Sumner/ GWRPC Board

Kenny Hoke- Mayor of Russellville

Brian Straub- Mayor of Lawrenceville

Barbara Allender- The Bridgeport Leader Newspaper

Gerald Brooks- South Lawrence Water Corporation

Gerald Harper- citizen

Wayne County

Larry Bunting- Wayne County Board

Mickey Borah- City of Fairfield Mayor

Susan Murphy- Fairfield Area Development Commission

Rich Talbert- GWRPC

Edwards County

Jim Becker- University of Illinois Extension

Martha Speir- University of Illinois Extension

Ryan Hallam- City of Albion Mayor

Earl Frankland- citizen/ GWRPC Board

Don Cornelius- Village of West Salem Board/ GWRPC Board

Crawford County

Ron Veenstra- Crawford County Board

Laquita Hasty- City of Robinson/ GWRPC Board

Bernie Gray- Village of Hutsonville

Joe Bliss- Crawford County Board

Charlie Rains- Crawford County Board

Beulah Bowen- Palestine Chamber of Commerce

John Suftin- Crawford County Board/ GWRPC Board

David Fulling- Crawford County Board/ GWRPC Board

Alyce Mullins- Crawford County Board

Bob Berty- Crawford County Development Association/ GWRPC Board

Tina Callaway- Village of Hutsonville

Connie Calvert- Crawford County Development Association

Wabash County

Michael Gill- Lamac Engineering

Richard Perry- citizen

Pat Perry- citizen

Wayne Walden- Retail Merchants Committee

Charles Sanders- Wabash County Board

Jim Pfiester- GWRPC Board

Matt Fowler- Wabash Valley College

Gary Stuessel- citizen

Norm Brunson- Mt. Carmel City Commissioner- GWRPC Board

Colby Rigg- Village of Bellmont Mayor

Mike Neikirk- Neikirk Engineering

Tom Meeks- City of Mt. Carmel

Brandi Stennett- City of Mt. Carmel

Eric Bramlet- Mt. Carmel Public Utilities

Margaret Felts- Mt. Carmel Public Utilities

John Fearheiley- Mt. Carmel City Commissioner

Fred Deadmond- Village of Allendale Mayor-GWRPC Board

White County

Joe Bisch- City of Grayville Mayor

Nancy Mitchell- White County Board- GWRPC Board

JoEllen Seil- White County Economic Development Group

References

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