Economic Update- Logistics Industry

Prepared by: Dr. Bill LaFayette, Vice President, Economic Analysis, Columbus Chamber

As is true of virtually every sector, the recession is causing transportation and warehousing employment to decline nationally and locally. From the recession’s beginning in December 2007 through April 2009, Columbus MSA transportation and warehousing employment declined 2,700 (5.6 percent) – somewhat better than the national average decline of 6.6 percent. However, thanks to the strong local growth in the sector prior to the recession, Columbus MSA employment remains 31.5 percent higher than its level prior to the 2001 recession, while U.S. employment is 4.1 percent less than its 2001 level.

Columbus Region Logistics Council Networking Event – Business Environment

Join your fellow industry and government leaders to learn how the Columbus Region Logistics Council is working to strengthen the logistics industry in the Columbus Region. You’ll hear about the plans for road improvements in the Rickenbacker area from Dean Ringle the Franklin County Engineer, from members of the logistics community about the Intermodal Yard and updates from companies located at Rickenbacker. Dean Ringle the Franklin County Engineer will provide details about improvements at the I-270 Alum Creek Interchange. A group of foreign journalists will be in attendance to learn about our area.

Following the presentation, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks as you network with leaders in the logistics industry along with leaders in other industries and government officials.

Event Details: Register here

Columbus Region Logistics Council Networking Event – Business Environment
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Rickenbacker Charter Terminal
2241 John Circle Drive
Columbus, OH 43217

About the Columbus Region Logistics Council

Vision:
The Columbus region will be known as a major U.S. channel of advanced logistics. We provide a competi tive advantage for industry serving national and global markets and create economic opportunity for the region. The Columbus Region Logistics Council is:

Fostering a logistics-friendly business environment
Developing and enhancing an advanced logistics infrastructure
Infusing working-class logistics technology into regional industry
Building a high-skill workforce for competitive advantage

Four committees are working toward improvements in each area. Below are key action items and results.

Infrastructure:
The Columbus Chamber and Columbus Region Logistics Council worked collaboratively with partners including the State of Ohio, Franklin County, the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, MORPC and Duke to advocate for stimulus funds to support infrastructure improvements. The following funds have been secured:
$7 million in state stimulus funds were awarded for improvements of the Alum Creed Drive/9-270 interchange and the adjacent intersection at Groveport Road.
$14 million of federal stimulus will support the widening of Rickenbacker Parkway
$3.6 million will enhance rail connectivity.

Workforce:
The committee is working with the Ohio Skills Bank to provide for future industry training and workforce development. An internship program, developed in collaboration with the Columbus Chamber is underway. Details are available at www.columbusinternships.com

Technology:
The committee is working on a long-term project to develop a Solutions Center that will provide research, consultation and product and idea innovation for the industry.

Business Environment:
To promote the region’s logistics assets, the chamber and CRLC are hosting 10 international journalists in Columbus this month.
The Council and MOPRPC have been awarded funds to conduct a freight study that will identify freight movements in and out of the region to improve efficiency and assist in marketing.
Logistics is featured on the Chamber’s Web site at:
http://www.columbus.org/economic-development/logistics/