Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities
2017: Public Infrastructure and Economic Development
Co-Learning Plan - 2017
Authors: Dayne Walling, 21 Performance
Summary
The Co-Learning Plan provides an analysis of federal, state and local policies designed to direct publicly funded infrastructure investments for strategic economic development purposes. Public policies from multiple levels of government are assessed based on factors such as geographic context, program criteria, economic impact, effects on equity, efficiency of job creation and investment leverage. Data is drawn from public documents, surveys and interviews with local and state officials from across the country, and policy staff in national and regional development associations. A framework is recommended for Michigan to address the state’s infrastructure crisis while also investing in economic development in order to move Michigan forward with true economic growth. In addition to adequate resources for implementation, the policy framework needs to have four features: a) an integrated infrastructure systems planning partnership; b) an infrastructure bank with a diverse portfolio; c) a set of flexible tools for economic development; d) incentives to increase area wide equity and sustainability.
Author Information
Dayne Walling, 21Performance
Dayne Walling is manager of 21 Performance, a consulting company built on his professional experience as a public executive, social entrepreneur, and research fellow. He is the former Mayor of the City of Flint and under his leadership the city adopted its first comprehensive master plan in more than 50 years and developed collaborative initiatives in public safety, infrastructure, development and volunteerism. Dayne is also a prominent speaker and commentator on economic development, urban policy, and brownfield revitalization and has served on the Executive Committee of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and as the chairperson of the national Manufacturing Alliance of Communities. He holds degrees in social relations, modern history, and urban affairs and has completed doctoral work in geography. Dayne was a Rhodes and Truman scholar from Michigan State University's James Madison College and an Aspen Rodel fellow.
View the Report