RDA equals business plus jobs
Exactly what is redevelopment? To many people, it means reducing urban decay. But to the city of Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency (RDA), it also means attracting new companies, helping business startups, providing business incentives and more.
During the past year, 55 businesses relocated to, opened, upgraded or began new construction in the Las Vegas redevelopment area, according to the city's fiscal year 2011 In Review report on economic and urban development projects.
These developments, in turn, generated thousands of jobs. According to Bill Arent, director for the city's Economic and Urban Development Department, projects completed in fiscal year 2011, which ended June 30, generated 1,240 construction jobs, 512 permanent jobs and were valued at $204 million. In addition, projects under construction will result in 3,145 construction jobs, 1,724 permanent jobs and a value of $853 million.
The EUD coordinates with the city of Las Vegas RDA on day-to-day operations, economic development, job creation and long-term strategic goals.
While the impending completion of large-scale projects such as The Smith Center for the Performing Arts and the relocation of Zappos.com grab headlines, it's the small businesses that help to create the area's intimate vibe and make it a truly livable place.
To help these small-business entrepreneurs, Arent noted that the city "offers Visual Improvement Program grants and waives certain substantial license fees to attract small businesses to areas like the Fremont East Entertainment District and 18b, the Las Vegas Arts District."
New urban bars such as Artifice, Insert Coin(s), Lady Silvia and Vanguard Lounge recently benefitted from these programs and fee waivers.
"It's all about making it easier to do business here," Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman said. "Downtown is where our city started and it's the new place to be. The energy and excitement continue to build as we help to reclaim the area one business at a time."
For more information on the city of Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency, as well as demographics and other information, visit www.lvrda.org.
