Like most communities in Michigan, the City of Rochester became concerned about the current economic downturn. It decided to take a planning approach to ensure the community’s economic viability was maintained, and even improved, over the next few years. Carlisle/ Wortman was retained to craft a planning process that would evaluate Rochester’s business environment within the context of the larger economy, and make recommendations for change that would strategically place the City in a positive investment position.

The resulting study outlines the transition from a manufacturing-based to knowledge-based economy, and what implications this change has on community development. The study discusses how government can create a desirable investment environment, develop partnerships, and stimulate investment in the City. It also summarizes results of interviews with a number of people whose livelihood is tied to business property in Rochester, and outlines twelve steps the City can take to better ensure a vibrant economy in the future.

Contact Richard Carlisle for more information. pdf