Phoenix Officials Approve Aggressive High Technology Economic Development Strategies

Feb. 1, 2001

The Phoenix City Council gave the go-ahead to a Community and Economic Development Department work program that targets the technology sector. The technology industry is the primary targeted sector of the Phoenix Economic Development Plan.

"The New Economy will clearly change the way the city of Phoenix works and delivers services," said Community and Economic Development Director Patrick Grady. "Retaining, growing and attracting technology-based firms to our community is critical to the overall economic vitality of Phoenix."

The work program, which includes three additional staff positions and other resources, will focus on partnering with other economic development agencies, retaining existing technology firms and attracting new ones, and enhancing local and international awareness of Phoenix as a top technology center in the United States. Other objectives included in the program's goals are supporting the expansion of telecommunications fiber service to companies, improving employment opportunities, encouraging workforce development in the local high-tech industry and providing technical assistance to the technology business cluster.

District 3 Councilmember and Chair of the City Council Transportation and Technology Subcommittee Peggy Bilsten agreed that aggressive economic development in the high-tech area is critical to Phoenix's position in the New Economy. "It's imperative that we are in a strong position to compete regionally and nationally for the growth of technology companies. Our residents deserve the high quality jobs, clean industries, enhanced per capita income and thriving economy the high-tech industry provides."

Media Contact:

Marie Levie Pager Patrick Grady

602-262-6213 602-229-6567 602-495-5252