Regional Economic Development Seesion

DVRPC will host a listening session about regional economic development June 8, 2011 at the , 16 East Main Street, Moorestown, NJ. A light dinner will be served at 6 p.m. and the evening's program will begin at 6:45 p.m.

This meeting is part of a series of listening sessions held around the region. The goal is to inform residents about DVRPC programs and public participation activities. These meetings also provide an opportunity for a continuing dialogue between the public and the Commission regarding the most important issues facing the region.

Patricia Elkis, Associate Director, DVRPC Comprehensive Planning Unit, and Michael Boyer, DVRPC Manager of Long-Range Planning, will present Making the Connection: Long-Range Planning and Economic Development, which highlights various topics, recommendations, and initiatives undertaken by the Commission.

Elkis will also present a recently completed study, The Economic Value of Protected Open Space. The study uses research to quantify the economic value of parks, preserved farms, and natural areas in terms of property value, ecosystem services, direct use and health benefits, and economic activity. While the study is Pennsylvania-focused, the findings have a larger impact by illustrating to all communities the value of open space in the region. There will also be discussion regarding the potential for conducting a similar study in New Jersey.

To RSVP, or if you have any questions, please contact Jane Meconi, Public Involvement Manager, at 215-238-2871 or jmeconi@dvrpc.org.