A Fresh Perspective on the Future of Grand Island

Grand Island is on a roll — and it has only just begun.
 
That is my first impression after a few weeks on the job as the new president of the Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce.
 
As I settle in at the Chamber, Cindy Johnson and the rest of our committed staff are showing me the ropes. We know Cindy is leaving huge shoes to fill, but she’s also leaving us a well-run, well-respected, financially-sound organization — one that recently earned a Five-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber, the highest designation achievable our industry. Thank you for your leadership, Cindy!
 
Overall, I have been impressed with the Chamber’s member services and community engagement. Our board of directors, young professionals, and Chamber Connectors have especially stood out. If community pride is the main ingredient for success, Grand Island is in great shape.
 
When it comes to the overall strength of the community, my observations can be summarized in three key themes:
 
Grand Island Is in the Limelight
 
As previously reported, Area Development magazine — a major economic development publication — recently examined 384 U.S. metro areas.
 
The study showed Grand Island was third best in nation for core economic indicators; No. 11 for economic strength; and No. 22 for overall economic growth, ahead of 362 other metros. That’s more than 100 spots ahead of Lincoln and 170 spots ahead of Omaha.
 
We cannot be shy about spreading the word of this achievement. Grand Island is competing with every other U.S. city for talent, investment, and jobs. The world needs to know Grand Island is on the move.
 
More Progress Is in the Pipeline
 
Thanks to the visionaries and risk-takers of Grand Island’s business community — and the help of city and county leaders — several area projects are in the works or continue to evolve. Among them are:

Conestoga Marketplace;
Prairie Commons and other major investments along Highways 281 and 34;
Casino Resort at Fonner Park;
The Railside Business Improvement District;
New housing development; and
Plans for new recreational attractions near I-80, including at Camp Augustine.
This could not happen without the day-to-day work of our small-business partners that are growing the local economy. Our business community is paving the way for what some are calling Grand Island’s most transformational period since the post-WWII era.

Grand Island Must Flex Its Generational Muscle
 
Grand Island’s population is significantly younger compared to the rest of the state and nation. Our median age is around 35 — and more than 28% of our population is under 18 (compared to 22.5% nationwide).

These young residents are our future talent and business leaders, as well as our future Chamber partners. They must know they are wanted here, needed here, and have an unparalleled quality of life in Grand Island. This is how we ensure continued growth.
 
Finally, I will conclude with this: While many membership organizations across the country are struggling, chambers of commerce have a different story to tell. The public knows that chambers look out for their economic interests and the community’s well-being.
 
Put simply, chambers are difference-makers. At the Grand Island Chamber, we address the issues that matter. When no one else is willing to lead, we say: “Follow us.” Your partnership makes that possible.
 
It’s an honor and privilege to serve this impressive Chamber community. Thank you for the opportunity.