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The Right Place unveils 3-year strategic plan for greater Grand Rapids

David Limbaugh

One initiative includes expanding employer engagement with K-12 and higher education institutions

The Right Place launched its strategic plan for regional economic growth by speaking with over 550 community stakeholders, outlining a three-year roadmap positioning greater Grand Rapids as the most resilient, productive, and equitable regional economy in the nation.

“The focus on people, place and prosperity as sort of a comprehensive economic development strategy.”

That’s The Right Place’s President and CEO, Randy Thelen.

One initiative includes expanding employer engagement with K-12 and higher education institutions.

“Getting more students and companies aligned in that high school window of time so they leave high school with greater purpose. Those students perform at a higher level throughout their career.”

Thelen says placemaking projects like the Acrisure Amphitheater and the Amway Stadium must also continue for Grand Rapids to attract and maintain workers.

“And I think across the board, it’s really elevate, right? How do we go from good to great in some of these practices? More placemaking projects that elevate the quality of life of our communities and more diversified job opportunities for our community.”

You can read the full strategic plan here.

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Dave joined WGVU Public Media in November of 2023 after eighteen years as a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Emmy-nominated photojournalist and editor at Grand Rapids' WOOD TV8 and three years at WEYI TV25 in Flint, Michigan. As a General Assignment Reporter, Dave covers daily news and community events all over West Michigan.
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