Huntsville's success in attracting Eli Lilly's new pharma plant highlights its growing economic strength and ability to win major projects, surpassing Birmingham, which struggles with translating research into commercial products. The article emphasizes the need for Birmingham to focus on effective economic development and regional collaboration, drawing lessons from Alabama's successful auto industry growth and past achievements like the Mercedes-Benz project.
The closure of Tyson Foods' beef plant in Lexington, Nebraska, after over two decades, is threatening to devastate the small town's economy, displacing 7,000 jobs and risking the community's American Dream, with many residents facing uncertain futures and potential mass migration.
Montgomery County celebrates a significant economic boost with Samsung Biologics establishing its first US manufacturing site in Rockville, alongside major biotech investments like Astra-Zeneca and X-energy, and the development of the Viva White Oak project, which will create thousands of jobs and housing units.
A year after Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville, the city is hoping for a strong fall tourist season to help revive its struggling hospitality sector, which has faced significant losses, closures, and workforce challenges due to the storm's destruction and ongoing economic headwinds.
Pittsburgh has been selected to host the 2026 NFL Draft, a major event expected to attract over a million visitors and significantly boost the local economy. Local leaders, including Governor Josh Shapiro and Mayor Ed Gainey, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the city's strong sports heritage and readiness to accommodate the influx of fans. The event will feature activities at Acrisure Stadium, Point State Park, and other key locations, with plans still being finalized. The draft is anticipated to be the largest event Pittsburgh has ever hosted, promising substantial economic benefits and national attention.
The Monroeville Convention Center in Pennsylvania is set to close this summer and transition into a Hobby Lobby store, leaving event planners and vendors scrambling after receiving abrupt cancellation letters with little explanation. The closure will have a significant impact on the local economy, affecting not only showrunners and vendors but also businesses and workers in the area who rely on the influx of visitors during convention center events. The transition to Hobby Lobby is expected to take place on June 1, 2024, with all convention center events scheduled after that date being terminated.
The closure of rail bridges in El Paso and Eagle Pass due to increased border activity has negatively impacted the local economy, particularly businesses heavily reliant on cross-border traffic. Angie Rodriguez, a business owner in Eagle Pass, stated that approximately 60% of her business comes from Mexico, and the decline in traffic has resulted in a quiet downtown area. Rodriguez expressed concern for the humanitarian situation and criticized elected leaders for not finding a satisfactory solution to immigration issues. Border Patrol estimates that over 5,000 migrants crossed the border into Eagle Pass on Monday, significantly higher than usual.
The 2023 Raleigh Christmas Parade kicked off the holiday shopping season with a special performance by American Idol Finalist Huntergirl, followed by bands, dancers, animals, and giant balloons. The parade concluded with Santa Claus, and attendees were encouraged to shop locally to support the local economy. The parade route was altered to exclude motorized vehicles following a tragic accident the previous year. A moment of silence was held for Hailey Brooks, the 11-year-old who lost her life during the parade. The weather for the parade was expected to be sunny and warm, with temperatures reaching the mid-60s to 70s.
The tourism disaster in Maui has led to mounting job and housing insecurities, exacerbating the devastation caused by the pandemic. As the local economy suffers, artisans, entrepreneurs, and manufacturers are striving to support the community through events like the Made in Maui County Festival.
The four-day Aftershock music festival in Sacramento is attracting rock lovers from around the world, with attendees from at least 35 countries and every continent except Antarctica. The event is expected to draw a total of 160,000 people and generate $50 million for the local economy. Local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, are benefiting from the influx of visitors. October is the biggest month of tourism for Sacramento, with Aftershock being followed by the Golden Sky Country Music Festival and the Ironman. The city hopes to encourage visitors to return even after the festivals end.
Georgia is experiencing its worst peach crop in nearly 70 years due to a February heat wave followed by two late-spring frosts, resulting in the loss of over 90% of this year's crop. The triple-whammy has inflated peach prices and forced the state to rely on California peaches. The shortage has had a significant impact on employment, the state economy, and local traditions. Farmers and agricultural groups are concerned about the long-term effects of climate change on peach cultivation in Georgia.
Georgia, known as the Peach State, has experienced a devastating loss of over 90% of this year's peach crop due to a heat wave followed by late-spring frosts. This has led to inflated prices and a shift to California peaches. The shortage has impacted the state's economy, employment, and traditions. Farmers and agricultural groups are calling it the worst peach crop in decades. The scarcity has forced businesses to find alternatives or import peaches from other states, but many remain loyal to Georgia peaches despite the financial challenges. The hope is that this is a one-time occurrence, and Georgia peaches continue to be a source of pride for the state.
Financial experts predict that Taylor Swift's two sold-out concerts in Denver this weekend will generate an estimated $40-$50 million for the local economy, surpassing the impact of Garth Brooks' previous performance at the same venue. The economic impact includes money spent on parking, food, and lodging. Swift is expected to earn $5 million to $7 million per concert.
Small businesses in rural America, like Maine Grains in Skowhegan, Maine, face unique challenges that hinder their growth and expansion. Despite efforts to revitalize the local economy, the lack of infrastructure and resources in these areas make it difficult for businesses to thrive.
Work has begun on expanding Interstate 10 in Harrison County, Mississippi, in preparation for the state's first Buc-ee's franchise, which is expected to be a massive 70,000 square feet. The popular convenience store is known for creating jobs with good pay, offering clean bathrooms, and a wide selection of food. Despite being the world's largest gas station, Buc-ee's does not cater to big rigs. The store also holds the record for the world's longest car wash. The grand opening is tentatively set for December 2024.
