I can count (at least) two big events happening this November. One is a little thing you may have heard about (more on that in a few paragraphs). The other is the Economic Outlook Forum, hosted by the Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI) at Towson University. For the past twenty years, RESI has invited business leaders, educators, and community members to convene to discuss the state of Maryland’s economy while focusing on a particular theme.
This year our focus will be on Placemaking Ideals and the Role of Towson University.
What Is Placemaking?
At its most basic, placemaking is a people-centered approach to the planning, design, and management of public spaces1. Placemaking capitalizes on a local community’s assets and potential to create a community where people want to live, work, and play. This plays a vital role in any community’s economic growth.
The Forum
Last month, TU President Kim Schatzel, Ph.D., announced former Howard County Executive Ken Ulman would help Towson University map its future growth strategies. Over the next four months, Ulman will perform an “anchor scan” to analyze market trends, development patterns, and space needs as they align with TU’s goals and priorities.
View President Schatzel’s press conference.
“As the largest university in Greater Baltimore, Towson University is committed to taking on an even greater leadership role as an anchor institution and further strengthening its connections and positive impact with community and business partners,” said Schatzel.
Schatzel and Ulman will both speak at the Economic Outlook Forum and invite public input to identify issues that are important to building a stronger, more sustainable community.
The Economic Forecast
Now back to that little event I mentioned in the first paragraph. The Economic Outlook Forum will take place eight days after the Presidential Election. While there has been economic uncertainty during Barack Obama’s presidency, this election has raised uncertainty to new levels. My economic forecast will take into account that uncertainty along with local issues including Governor Hogan’s perceived popularity, critical occupational shortages, and challenges facing Maryland.
Event Details and Registration
I invite you and your colleagues to join in the conversation on November 16, 8:00 a.m.–noon. Also, this year we are offering the Economic Outlook Forum at no cost.
Visit our website to view the full agenda and to register.
