Groundwork
groundwork | noun | graʊndˌwɜrk
- a foundation; basis
- work that is done as a preparation for work that will be done later
Groundwork is a new column in the Boones Ferry Messenger dedicated to uncovering the behind-the-scenes efforts shaping Wilsonville’s economic future. From business growth and job creation to community investments and long-term planning, we’ll explore the big questions and ongoing work that make Wilsonville a great place to live and do business.
Past Columns (published in the Boones Ferry Messenger)
Economic development is the practice of creating policies, programs, and partnerships, and projects that improve the economic well-being and quality of life within a community or region.
Generally, economic development involves efforts to:
• attract and grow businesses (that in turn create jobs)
• enhance infrastructure (that spur private development)
• support entrepreneurship
• develop a talented workforce
Job creation, investment, a talented workforce, commercial vibrancy, and rich culture are the visible outcomes of economic development groundwork. Often, what we see today is the product of less visible work and relationship-building done years, even decades, before.
Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, Wilsonville wasn’t either. The city we love was not inevitable, and a thriving community in the future is also not a foregone conclusion.
