Rodney Crim Joins STL Regional Economic Development Panel
Rodney Crim, CEO and President at the STL Partnership (phot credit: Mia Turner)
Rodney Crim, CEO and President of the STL Partnership joined an esteemed panel to discuss St. Louis Regional Economic Development. The event was hosted by The Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGCMO) on March 3rd. Crim gave an overview of the economic development functions within the STL Partnership and highlighted projects in both St. Louis City and County, as well as projects worked on by our economic development partner, the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC).
“I want to thank AGCMO for hosting this opportunity to share our collaborative regional efforts.” said Crim.
Attendees also learned information on the latest news about regional and state-wide development issues for the construction industry. Other panelists included Scott Drachnik, CEO and President of the EDC Business and Community Partners, Kevin Kliesen, Business Economist and Research Officer at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and Tom Evers, Assistant District Engineer at the St. Louis Metro District of the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).
Ken Simonson, Chief Economist at the Associated General Contractors of America provided great news about the construction workforce. From 2009-2019, construction openings were at an all-time high. He talked about new and ongoing public and private airport projects. He also stated that transit construction and reconstruction are at record levels.
Kevin Kliesen presented information on the outlook for the U.S. economy in 2020. “The housing market is rebounding and there seems to be a healthy dynamic labor market along with a very low unemployment rate,” said Kliesen.
Tom Evers talked about the approved 2020-2024 State Transportation Improvement Program. “For the St. Louis region, we are expected to have approximately 218 projects to complete with a $1.3 billion budget. This will help with roadways, bridges, traffic signals and dynamic message signs,” said Evers.
Scott Drachnik also shared his excitement to work with the panelists to help the region move forward with economic development projects. “It’s a new day in regional economic development efforts. Let’s build momentum together!”said Drachnik.
For more information about the Associated General Contractors of America Association click here.