During my tenure in Congress, I have made Economic Development a priority. I understand the importance of bringing new, quality jobs to North Alabama. In addition, we as an area need to continually work with our existing businesses to help them expand and grow within our communities.

Here in North Alabama, we have a great deal to offer a potential industrial partner. From a quality workforce to a superior quality of life, we are able to compete with any area in the country.

I approach economic development on many levels. I meet regularly with the local economic development professionals to find ways to assist efforts to recruit jobs. Also, I hold Economic Development Roundtables, bringing the county developers and area leaders together to discuss efforts which may benefit the entire region.

Through the years, I have pushed for regional economic development. Sometimes people view city, county, and even state lines as obstacles when competing for industry. I work to break down these misconceptions and let people know that we should compete not among ourselves, but other parts of the country.

Furthermore, I frequently speak with the Governor and state development officials to advocate for area projects. Finally, each year I join Rep. Zach Wamp from Tennessee to host the Tennessee Valley Corridor Summit to highlight a multi-state effort for economic development.

My seat on the House Appropriations Committee allows me to help meet the needs of North Alabama as it relates to economic development efforts. In recent years, I have secured funding for a modern Air Traffic Control Tower for the Huntsville/Madison County International Airport, for access roads and water system improvements for the Jackson County Industrial Park, for an interchange on Interstate 65 and Brownsferry Road in Limestone County, for the Patton Island Bridge in the Shoals. These are just a few of the priority projects that I have worked on with area leaders to further economic development in the Tennessee Valley.

In addition, I work with the North Alabama Industrial Development Association to promote our area during their conferences in cities around the country. I am able to interact with site selection professionals and top corporate executives to build relationships for communities in North Alabama.

I will continue to maximize my position in Congress to be the best possible advocate for the 5^th Congressional District. I will remain dedicated bringing jobs for the individual communities as well as the entire Tennessee Valley.

2008 Economic Development Press Releases from Representative Cramer:

Related Economic Development Links: