NPR proves even a new playground can be a business story
]
Proving that you can find a business angle in almost any story, NPR headed to a new $7 million playground in New York for a piece on how “Imagination Playground” fits into economic development. The segment by Robert Smith says:
“Manhattan is undergoing a baby boom. And Adrian Benepe, New York’s parks commissioner, says building fancy, innovative playgrounds can serve as draws for high-income families.
‘When you do that, that’s when people say, “I’m going to stay in this neighborhood,’” he says. “‘I’m going to move to that neighborhood. I’m going to invest. I’m going to keep my business here or expand my business.’”
Today’s Tip: Check how civic groups promote your area — and see whether it’s working.
Here in Milwaukee, though it’s too cold most of the year, you can pass a playground practically every five miles. There are also public marinas and family friendly beaches.
As cities deal with suburban exodus, ask what’s being done to keep and attract families. Look at schools, playgrounds, city events, etc. Use Census data to determine whether projects have been successful.
Also, keeping tabs on what businesses are coming or are being courted can give you a sense of what jobs and training could be in the pipeline. As Todd Woody did for this story, check in with local economic-development types and their likely targets.
Listen to the NPR story:
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
