The Strategic Plan for Economic Development was developed in September 1995 to establish economic development planning in East Baton Rouge Parish. The plan helps the Planning Commission in meeting several economic development goals outlined in the Horizon Plan – a 20-year "Comprehensive Land Use and Development Plan."

Purpose of the Strategic Plan

The purpose of the Strategic Plan is to establish a comprehensive program to serve as a guide for Parishwide economic development efforts. The program includes the formulation of strategies ("Action Items") that will address unemployment and underemployment, and build capacity in economically distressed neighborhoods throughout the Parish. Utilizing a strong public input process, the Strategic Plan defines goals, objectives and Action Items specifically related to economic development.

The Economic Development Strategic Plan contains: (1) detailed inventory and analysis of current conditions in targeted economically distressed neighborhoods; (2) a profile of the labor force, education, major employers, community problems and opportunities; (3) projected needs; (4) goals and objectives; (5) policies; (6) the action plan; (7) implementation strategies; and (8) conclusions. The Strategic Plan addresses the creation of employment opportunities; labor force preparedness as an attraction for business; business needs in relationship to job training; career advancement for the underemployed; transportation and infrastructure improvements to meet employee and business needs; community image and appearance; and socioeconomic issues.

Strategic Plan Goals and Objectives

The Strategic Plan was formulated to address the needs and issues uncovered in the inventory and analysis. The plan includes six broad goals, which are further divided into objectives and Action Items (strategies) for achieving the goals. The six goals are:

1. Increase employment opportunities to lower the community’s unemployment rate and to expand the Parish’s economic base;
2. Develop a skilled workforce to reduce unemployment;
3. Encourage career advancement and career options for the underemployed;
4. Improve public transportation and infrastructure to support economic development;
5. Support and encourage Parishwide efforts to improve the community; and
6. Promote a healthful community.

A subcommittee of the Overall Economic Development Program (OEDP) Committee identified priorities for the various Action Items of the plan. "Lead Agencies" were selected for the initiation, coordination, completion and continuation of each designated Action Item. The Economic Development Section staff visited with Lead Agencies and obtained commitments to the Strategic Plan. "High" priority Action Items were to be initiated by the end of 1995; "Middle" priority Action Items were to be initiated between November 1995 and October 1997; and "Low" priority Action Items are to be initiated before October 1988. There are a total of 75 Action Items that will be implemented by 25 Lead Agencies, including the Planning Commission.