Coordinated Urban Economic Development: A Case Study Analysis

摘要

This report gives 22 case examples of innovative ways in which cities are coordinating public resources and collaborating with community organizations and the private sector to stimulate local economic development. Traditionally, cities have approached development in a piecemeal fashion. Programs have been developed to deal with specific problems such as urban renewal, housing rehabilitation, or business loans. Cities which attempt to coordinate development efforts usually establish a comprehensive development line agency, set up a coordinative staff approach, or devise some combination of the two. The type of structure a city creates depends upon its economic situation (those with declining economies may require a comprehensive institution to pursue an interventionist strategy), the system of government, political considerations, and private sector input. Comprehensive economic development planning is a new concept which will require significant changes in many city planning activities. Data must be gathered at the neighborhood level and attention must be given to different sectors of the economy. To date few cities have used Community Development Block Grant program funds to involve the private sector in community development. However, only by leveraging private investment can long - term community gains be realized. The case studies illustrate several development financing techniques used by local governments, including front - end investment capital, low - interest financing and tax breaks to improve cash flow, and reduced risk.