With future development in mind, the Clinton County Board of Commissioners heard a presentation Tuesday regarding the creation of a strategic economic development plan.

The plan would focus on the area west of Frankfort reaching to the interchange of Interstate 65, approximately 7,000 acres, according to Chris Hamm, senior planner with HWC Engineering.

"The area specifically between the current corporate city limits of Frankfort and I-65 an area that you have a comprehensive plan for already," he said.

Having an additional plan, Hamm said, would help the county be more aggressive in capturing development opportunities over the next several years.

"I believe there is some belief that with some additional thought and strategic planning in that area it will help provide you to be more nibble in seizing opportunities from that could be created from an economic development perspective moving forward," he added.

The objective of the plan is to stimulate and expedite growth in the area. Pat of the area was designated as a TIF area last year. Hamm said the plan would also be intentional in utilizing existing entities in the area like the Frankfort/Clinton County Airport.

"We believe it's important because of the future opportunities with regards to infrastructure improvements and the ability to really capitalize on Ind. 28 corridor moving forward to look at that area," he said.

The multi-step plan will include site development and conceptual planning analysis, as well as looking at previous plans and key market and statistical data.

"Ultimately what we hope to do is prepare you for opportunities that lend themselves from an economic development moving forward," he said.

HWC will draft a contract and submit it to the county's attorney before the next commissioners meeting.

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