Bowling Green Ranked 33rd Among Small U.S. Cities

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Communications and Public Policy Director Nick Fuhrman
 

BOWLING GREEN, KY (September 29, 2008) - Bowling Green has once again been recognized for its efforts in economic development growth. The Milken Institute, an economic think tank based out of Santa Monica, Calif., recently ranked Bowling Green 33rd on their list of 124 small cities in its Best Performing Cities 2008 index. This new recognition comes closely on the heels of Bowling Green being ranked 12th on the Forbes Magazine list of the Best Small Places for Business and Careers.

The Milken Institute determined these rankings based on the creation of new jobs, the sustaining of existing jobs and the rate of economic growth. Bowling Green has put forth a large effort to expand their economic environment and has also dedicated itself to help build and maintain the economic development of the entire South Central Kentucky Region. According to Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon, "The economic development efforts made here and throughout South Central Kentucky are due in large part to the strength of our business community. Industries recognize that this is a great place to do business."

With a number of new industries moving to the area, Bowling Green is diversifying their industrial environment and expanding into new areas, such as technology. Mayor Elaine Walker recently discussed Bowling Green's move toward the technological arena. "Western Kentucky University's Innovation and Commercialization Center is helping us to create high-tech businesses and is very active in trying to build a quality work force in that sector." This recognition of the importance of diversifying the industrial environment is just one of the many reasons that Bowling Green continues to expand their economic development efforts.

Bowling Green's above average performance in increasing wage salary from year to year, along with its significant population growth and relative low cost of living also help to solidify their place on the Milken's list. Doug Gorman, chairman of the board of directors for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes, "The Chamber works hard to recruit and retain industries in South Central Kentucky because we understand the benefits of growing business here. By maintaining a strong workforce through our recruitment, expansion and training efforts, we show our commitment to our community, not just in the here-and-now, but for the future as well."

To learn more about The Milken Institute's rankings, visit http://bestcities.milkeninstitute.org/.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. As one of the only 336 chambers nationwide to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational incentives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.