Suttle Jobs 030209

Five Steps For New Jobs and Prosperity in Omaha For Immediate Release: March 2, 2009 Omaha City Councilman Jim Suttle announced today a five-step program that he will implement as Mayor to create new and better jobs and raise household incomes, particularly in North Omaha and other neighborhoods experiencing high unemployment. Suttle made his announcement at the intersection of 16th and Read Streets, where his proposal for a new bridge would create prime economic development opportunities on both sides of the Missouri River. “We’ll attract jobs and economic development near the neighborhoods where people need work,” said Suttle. “Our plan will ultimately attract private sector investment. While we’ll create immediate jobs in the construction trades, the most important factor is that we create permanent, long-term employment opportunities by attracting new industries in technology, clean energy and the green economy.”

As Omaha’s 50th Mayor, Jim Suttle will: 1. 2.

3.

4.

5.

Pursue use of the Stimulus Program to fast track construction of the new Gateway Bridge, extending north 16th Street across the Missouri River to Iowa. This project will provide immediate construction jobs. Complete the bridge to accomplish three objectives: a. Create substantial new ground on both sides of the river for economic development in light manufacturing, technology and green development. b. Establish a better transportation route for our vital trucking industry and relieve truck traffic on North 30th Street, in turn promoting retail, commercial and tourism development in Florence and adjacent neighbor hoods. The alternative route can also enhance the safety and commercial success of the North Downtown, Qwest Center and Stadium area by diverting a substantial portion of existing truck traffic. c. Provide a better route to Eppley Airfield for travelers from Iowa and South Dakota who choose to fly out of Omaha, enhancing this important market of airline passengers. Establish a 2,500-acre prime industrial development tract on the east side of the bridge, served by two railroads, two Interstate highways, the river for barge traffic, and Eppley Airfield. This tract can be governed through joint partnership agreements under the existing laws of Nebraska and Iowa. Designate a director of economic development in the Mayor’s Office to be a liaison for jobs, working with our business community to sell Omaha to new industries in technology, clean energy and the green economy. Use TIF Financing, port authority statutes and other economic development tools, to locate these jobs near North Omaha, putting opportunities closest to neighborhoods with our highest concentrations of unemployment. Work with our schools, trade unions, community college and universities to ensure we’re making our workforce competitive and future-ready for the new and better jobs of tomorrow. Paid for by JimSuttle.com