October 26, 2012
News Release
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – I-69 is one of the few new-terrain interstates being constructed in the United States. As access to an interstate is key to economic development, University of Southern Indiana has initiated discussions – including an initial meeting on November 12 in Huntingburg, Ind. — to ensure thoughtful consideration and collaborative planning is in place for this important opportunity in the region.
“By bringing together industry leaders, community leaders, and other key stakeholders to discuss the potential that the I-69 development brings, we can maximize the economic development opportunities, especially around high-tech and innovation businesses,” said Mark Bernhard, associate provost for USI’s Division of Outreach and Engagement. “We want to fully engage others to capitalize on the opportunity in front of us.”
“Significantly increased accessibility and connectivity through strengthened infrastructure have a measurable impact on economic growth,” said R.J. Reynolds, president and CEO of Radius Indiana, a regional partnership representing eight counties in South Central Indiana.
“Indiana is one of the top five states in which to do business and is now forging ahead by strengthening its infrastructure with I-69. As we all work together to build and support the I-69 Innovation Corridor, the impact on economic growth for the region will be greater than we’ve yet conceived.”
Participants have been invited to attend a planning meeting November 12 to share their insights, opinions, and suggestions regarding the potential for the EVV-Crane I-69 Innovation Corridor Development. Topics for discussion include understanding the economic potential for the region, including technology transfer from Crane, and how those opportunities can be realized along the interstate corridor.
“Innovation needs to become a core competency as we work to solve complex problems now and in the future,” Don Schulte, director of engagement for Crane, said. “I believe this initiative provides great opportunities to develop systematic and disciplined regional approaches to innovation that can be leveraged to develop a culture that promotes technology-based economic development.”
As the planning continues, information regarding outcomes and progress will be shared with the public.
Source: University of Southern Indiana
