Task Forces
All task force meeting are open to the public, and everyone is invited to participate.
The in-person meeting locations along with Zoom links will be provided closer to meeting dates and will be published here and in the monthly newsletter.
Broadband
Tri-State Development recognizes the critical need for broadband internet access in every corner of our rural counties. With the recent federal investment in broadband infrastructure, a task force has been formed to ensure that everyone is connected and has access to the economic opportunities and educational resources available through the internet. Rural counties have been left behind in terms of broadband access, and this task force is committed to closing the gap and expanding coverage in the entire tri-state area. By partnering with regional broadband providers, the task force aims to make broadband access more available, affordable, and accessible to all in the region. Broadband internet provides a significant step towards creating a more equitable and connected rural region that allows every person the ability to participate fully in our global economy, as an employee, and entrepreneur, a student, and a consumer.
Upcoming Meetings
January 24th, 2025 - 10 AM
April 25th, 2025 - 10 AM
August 15th, 2025 - 10 AM
Childcare
The shortage of available childcare slots in our region has become a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The decline in workforce participation rates and increasing levels of family poverty, the economic and social impact of this crisis cannot be ignored. Parents are struggling to balance work and family responsibilities, and the lack of affordable and quality childcare options is only exacerbating this problem. This task force will bring communities together to address this issue and find solutions that will support working families and promote economic growth. This task force will direct attention to the lack of available childcare workers, the barriers that exist for entering the industry, the impact on workforce and unfilled positions, and the effects on quality of life.
Upcoming Meetings
January 27th, 2025 - 10 AM
April 28th, 2025 - 10 AM
August 14th, 2025 - 10 AM
Regional health & wellbeing
This task force will focus on identifying and addressing the challenges faced by healthcare systems in our region. As the largest industry sector in the region, it is imperative that our healthcare systems remain strong and viable. The task force will work to promote innovative solutions to healthcare gaps, address workforce shortages, share best practices among rural serving health organizations, and promote quality-of-life initiatives throughout the region.
Upcoming Meetings
January 24th, 2025 - 2 PM
April 25th, 2025 - 2 PM
August 15th, 2025 - 2 PM
Rural Business & Agriculture
Our rural region is thriving with small businesses, with startups that outpace the national average. To support this momentum, this task force has been established to identify opportunities for creating an ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurship and small businesses, highlight pathway for capital investment, and develop ways to support local agricultural contributions and innovation. The task force's focus on rural small businesses, agriculture, and innovation is a top priority as it drives our local economy and contributes to the success of our communities.
Upcoming Meetings
January 23rd, 2025 - 2 PM
April 28th, 2025 - 2 PM
August 11th, 2025 - 2 PM
Transportation and river
The Tri-State Development region boasts an abundance of transportation resources, making it an ideal location for industry growth. With four major highway corridors intersecting the region and the highest number of navigable river miles in the country, the potential for leveraging intermodal transportation assets to attract and retain industry is vast. The task force focuses on maximizing the benefits of highways, the river, air, and rail to support a strong foundation for economic growth in the region by serving the transportation needs of industry and communities.
Upcoming Meetings
January 30th, 2025 - 2 PM
May 1st, 2025 - 2 PM
August 14th, 2025 - 2 PM
Stakeholder Gatherings
Tri-State Development is pleased to announce an additional stakeholder gathering for this next program year.
Higher Ed Consortium
The Tri-State Development Higher Ed Consortium brings together academic leadership from across the region to work together to assist in addressing important regional concerns. The purpose of the consortium is to align academic resources to help fuel academic research and participation in community-focused activities and initiatives.
Upcoming Meetings
Date and Time TBD