Espousal Strategies, LLC’s Post

My next few posts will show the collaboration between Parker County governments, DFW regional transportation entities, TxDOT, and private companies to make transportation investments in the County to further enhance economic development and safety. The widening of Ric Williamson Memorial Highway from US-180 to I-20 is a critical investment for the community. Not only will it allow for additional traffic flow, but the improved connection to I-20 will continue to strengthen the viability of commercial and industrial development in west Weatherford. Parker County Economic Development Council

Today U.S. Department of Transportation announced the 2024 recipients for the annual #RAISE Grant. These grants will distribute monies for a variety of connectivity and mobility projects across the U.S. and the territories for everything from ports to pedestrian sidewalks. A few of these included rail and multimodal components as well. In the Central and Southwest U.S. the two that stand out include the City of Rapid City #SouthDakota which will pursue a comprehensive safety and improvement plan for a variety of at-grade crossings downtown. In addition, the I-40 TradePort Corridor is also included. This project will plan the development of a regional multi-hub supply chain system stretching approximately 805 miles through California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Planning activities will focus on two hubs in #Arizona and one hub in #NewMexico. Shout out to Adam Wasserman, Bernalillo County, Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, Port of Los Angeles, CIty of Winslow, City Of Kingman, Elevate Rapid City, South Dakota Department of Transportation, and many other for their work on these efforts! https://lnkd.in/gjbXf-Q3

Small businesses are the driving force of the New Orleans economy, representing more than 80% of the total businesses and accounting for over 65% of jobs.   Mastercard #StriveUSA grantee, the New Orleans Business Alliance (NOLABA), is focused on demonstrating to the world how New Orleans is a premiere American city for business investment, quality of life, and inclusive economic opportunity.   A public-private partnership, NOLABA is the official economic development organization for the City of New Orleans and we’re proud to support their work assisting small businesses owners and advancing economic development in historically disinvested New Orleans neighborhoods.    Learn more about one of the few accredited economic development organizations worldwide here: https://bit.ly/3Im4Q6i #EconomicDevelopment #NewOrleans #InclusiveGrowth #FinancialInclusion #SmallBusiness

Growing Beyond Borders: How SCEDC Helped Erick Pasoda's Business Thrive. Imagine a thriving South County: new businesses bringing jobs, local companies expanding, and a vibrant community. That's the vision of the South County Economic Development Council (SCEDC), and you can be a part of it! At South County EDC, our mission is: Attract awesome businesses: We highlight South County's best features - prime locations, a skilled workforce, and easy international access - to bring exciting new businesses here. Empower local companies: We support existing businesses so they can thrive and create even more jobs. Build a future-ready workforce: We partner with schools to ensure our residents have the skills new businesses crave. Connect you with the right people: We link you with local leaders so your voice can be heard. By joining the SCEDC, you're not just investing in a business organization, you're investing in South County's future! Become a member today! https://lnkd.in/gZg7Fm38 #economicdevelopment #sandiego #smallbusiness #networking #businessstrategy

In the past few months I have been working on the European Economic and Social Committee opinion on the revision of European Works Councils. "The EESC welcomes the legislative steps taken by the European Commission to revise Directive 2009/38/EC with regard to minimum standards for setting up European Works Councils (EWCs) and ensuring their effective operation. The EESC recognises the aim to increase the effectiveness and implementation of EWC rights to provide legal certainty by clarifying key concepts of the Directive. The EESC believes that this will improve the role of EWCs as tools for a trust-based social dialogue culture in companies which fosters competitiveness and quality jobs. However, due to divergent views raised by the employers' organisations, members of the EESC Employers' Group tabled a counter-opinion. More specifically, they expressed concerns that the revision of the Directive could complicate the functioning of EWCs and risk transforming them from effective channels for company-level information and consultation into sources of disputes and legal uncertainty. The EESC Employers' Group believes this could potentially undermine the essential cooperation and trust in the workplace. The counter-opinion was rejected by the EESC but received more than a quarter of the votes cast, therefore, in line with the EESC Rules of Procedure, it is appended to the opinion." https://lnkd.in/dNpvt7DU

Recently, our CEO, Kieran Smith, had the privilege of being a featured panel member at the IAQ (Infrastructure Association of Queensland Inc) Infrastructure Assembly. The conversation centred on 'Nothing about us without us,' a theme close to our hearts. 💬 This powerful phrase emphasises the importance of involving First Nations Australians in decisions that directly impact their lives and communities. Without consultation, social infrastructure, while positive in nature, may not fully meet the unique needs of each community. 🌍 Aboriginal culture holds its own distinct values, attitudes, and beliefs that differ from Western perspectives. The Western focus on deliverables contrasts with First Nations approaches, which prioritise the right way of doing things. 🌱 Tapping into the cultural wisdom of First Nations offers a treasure trove of knowledge and diverse perspectives. This wealth of insights is key to delivering social infrastructure that truly benefits our communities. Together, let's continue these vital conversations and walk the path of understanding, unity, and respect. 🗣️  #GunawunaJungai #Doomadgee #CommunityEngagement #FirstNationsWisdom #UnityInDiversity 🤝

Transportation impacts every one of us. Our public participation plans reflect our commitment to providing opportunities for meaningful engagement with the communities we serve. Two draft plans are currently available for public review and comment. We’re looking for your comments on either or both plans by May 10, 2024. Our 2024 Public Participation Plan will guide public involvement for the next five years. A second participation plan specifically outlines engagement that will take place around the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) update. The MTP helps us plan for our region’s growth and plan for tomorrow’s transportation needs. Public input is a critical part of the planning process, and we want to hear from you. Click below to read about both plans and make your public comment. https://lnkd.in/djd3T-pn

Interesting read! The power and potential of Public Private Partnerships.

Another reminder to carefully check where you're filing your immigration cases as the filing locations can change with little notice or forgiveness. Your immigration counsel should be checking for you!

Insider tips for the Mpact Transit + Community Call for Speakers, straight from our National Steering Committee 🧠 These great people review your proposals and develop sessions for the conference. Have a story to tell? The Call for Speakers is open February 26 - March 29. Start thinking about your proposal, who you might want to include, and what you want to share. Visit our website for more about the Mpact Transit + Community Conference: https://lnkd.in/gEhnMstm #MpactPhilly