Kingsport receives national economic development award
The City of Kingsport has received an award from the American Planning Association’s Economic Development Division for the redevelopment of the greater Kingsport Press site and nearby properties.
Specifically, Kingsport won in the Innovation in Economic Development category at the APA’s annual conference held April 2 in Philadelphia. This award category is reserved for projects or programs that are creative and establish new pathways in addressing unique economic development needs.
“A tremendous amount of work has gone into redeveloping the Kingsport Press site and surrounding properties over the years and we’re truly thankful that our city is being recognized on a national level for our efforts,” said Steven Bower, economic development specialist for the city.
Kingsport received the award for its work on the redevelopment of the Dobyns-Taylor warehouse and the greater Kingsport Press property, including the Food City shopping center, the Kingsport Farmers Market, the Kingsport Carousel and nearby Town Park Lofts.
According to the APA, economic development consists of policies and actions which strive to improve the overall quality of life for a community or region by raising its standard of living, reducing inequality and using resources in a sustainable manner.
For more information about Kingsport’s economic development efforts, visit www.kingsporttn.gov/ecd.