Report shows Fayette economy moves forward
As a general rule anytime a report is released showing how Fayette County stacks up with the rest of Pennsylvania, we tense up ready for another kick in the gut. When was the last time Fayette didn’t pull the short straw? Not so with the recently released report, “Pennsylvania County Trends 1997-2001.” Using data from the state Department of Labor and Industry, the Pennsylvania State Data Center and the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program measured growth of businesses and employment in the 67 counties.
Fayette County’s economy is growing rapidly, researchers found. Only three other counties experienced a higher percentage increase in new business.
During the past five years, the number of businesses in Fayette County grew by 584 for a 21.8 percent increase. This is great and welcome news.
After decades of decline in jobs and population, Fayette appears to be turning the economic corner. Census 2000 data showed an increase in population and monthly unemployment statistics have stayed around 6 percent – quite a substantial drop from the double-digit numbers that gripped the county not too long ago.
County officials involved in spurring economic growth report periodically that the numbers are growing, that a new firm will be moving in or expanding. Although the announcements tally the jobs as a few here and there, taken together it is forming the basis for a stronger, diverse employment base.
The report, in looking at all these small increments of growth, found Fayette is making steady progress. This is quite a turnaround from the tone of reports released in the past. The report is a pat on the back and offers encouragement to stay the course as there is still much work to do before Fayette can boast of a vibrant economy.
Many of the new jobs are in the service and tourism industries and do not carry the high wages and benefits of manufacturing jobs that dramatically improve the quality of life for residents. But these are jobs and they do make a difference.
There is still a long way to go to raise the standard of living. But progress is being made. Industrial and business parks are being developed with a host of tax incentives to lure in firms that bring skilled jobs.
Many municipalities are planning for growth and are laying the foundation to support it through water and sewer line projects. Others are continuing to build the tourism industry by showcasing the county’s jewels.
Diligence coupled with determination will keep Fayette moving forward, as the slogan goes.