CAN LOCAL AIR QUALITY AFFECT FUTURE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT?

When the Chamber led the charge in dealing with air quality issues in our area over three years ago, it was because of the direct effect that it has on both economic development and local quality of life. This issue continues to develop, but by being ahead of the curve, Augusta is better prepared to deal with these challenges than many communities.

Non-attainment for new, tighter, air quality standards will have affects on many levels. Point source emitters may see tighter permitting, while drivers might be required to have their cars tested for compliance. Transportation planners will need to make sure road plans will not worsen the problem. Further, the stigma of being "non-attainment" will scare away economic development prospects and change about the community they live in.

With so much at stake, the Chamber was disappointed with the actual level of factual information about Augusta and its air. That is why the Air Quality Taskforce developed the Fall-Line Air Quality Study (FAQS) to find more detailed information on the causes and cures of local air quality problems. This project was spread to Macon and Columbus, Georgia and funded by the state. The results from this multi-year study will be available before Augusta has to establish its plan for improving air quality.

Augusta, now will have factual data on which to make decisions on the best route for dealing with levels of ozone exceeding new standards. The plan to bring our area back in to compliance will be able to be designed around our special circumstances and will be more effective and less onerous. This will speed our removal from the list of non-attainment communities and improve the business environment for both new and existing companies. All the while improving the air that every Augustan breathes.

CHAMBER EMPLOYS A VARIETY OF MARKETING INITIATIVES TO ENTICE NEW BUSINESS TO AUGUSTA

Since the second quarter of 2001, the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce has employed a variety of marketing initiatives in an effort to foster new economic growth in the area, including:

2001 Red Carpet Tour:
40 individuals representing a variety of industries visited Augusta in April, 2001. In addition to visiting the Masters® Tournament, guests were feted at a dinner and were given a tour of the area. Since that time, Chamber officials have followed up with specific contacts and through mailings.

Augusta Showcase:
Six guests representing biomedical research companies were brought to Augusta during the Masters® Tournament for the inaugural Augusta Showcase event. The success will be continued with a second event held in conjunction with the 2002 Masters® Tournament.

Airport Marketing Effort:
Guests to the 2001 Masters® were welcomed at the private aviation area at Augusta Regional Airport with a souvenir gift. Chamber officials collected business cards and hope to turn these cards into leads for future area business expansion.

Airlines Showcase:
Representatives from two airlines were hosted during the Masters® tournament, in hopes of establishing relationships that can be beneficial in expanding airline service in the Augusta area.

Mayor's Masters® Initiative:
The Chamber assisted Mayor Bob Young as he hosted CEOs visiting the Masters, treating the guests to a breakfast, lunch, and special hospitality area at the tournament.

Marketing Trips:
Chamber officials traveled on a variety of marketing trips throughout the year, representing the Augusta area.

Bus Tour:
In May, 2001 a bus tour of available buildings was offered to statewide developers and local brokers. Approximately 40 guests participated.

Marketing Materials:
A variety of marketing materials including an updated Manufacturers' Directory, a Summary Available Buildings brochure and a Data and Demographics booklet were produced, in addition to an updated Economic Profile, and annual Wage and Benefit Survey, and the Augusta Corporate Park site brochure.

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