By: Andrew Greenwood, Bargersville Town Council
Dec. 18, 2025
The winter weather is another reminder that 2026 is just around the corner. As Central Indiana leaders prepare for 2026, their minds are on the future of economic development and what the region will look like next year and beyond.
The average citizen likely agrees that economic development is important because it is economic development that helps improve the overall quality of life and well-being of a community. By fostering job creation, increasing incomes, diversifying the local tax base, we create a more resilient economy with business retention and growth which leads to better public services and amenities. The significance of this cannot be understated as every community strives to create a higher standard of living for all of its residents.
One could ask why do some communities, regions, states, and countries excel and some fail at economic development? If this is so important, why doesn’t the budget of all state and local governments lead with the largest dollars dedicated to economic development?
It is all about priorities and planning. Local governments must continue to fund essential services, including public safety and road and infrastructure projects. But it is essential that Central Indiana is not short-sighted when it comes to economic development too.
Central Indiana leads the State of Indiana in terms of population growth, jobs, and opportunities. However, it is imperative that government, business leaders, and the general public do not become satisfied with the status quo or think we are entitled to growth.
At CIRDA, members of different political parties have joined together as a region to make a bold, region-wide push to collaboratively determine what our catalyst for economic development should be. It is imperative that we take advantage of this unique opportunity as a region by gathering the data and reviewing our geographic and demographic strengths to overcome any weaknesses as we look to compete against other regions, cities, and nations for positive economic development growth.
When it comes to long-term planning, we’ve seen success in Central Indiana. The prior focus on becoming the amateur sports capital of the world has had a profound and important impact on the entire state. But like all aspects of life, it is time to reassess, enhance what is working, and improve. In the next few months, CIRDA will diligently work to bring forth a united plan for our future. In order to make this region better for future generations, we must set our priorities and encourage innovation and technology advancement throughout our entire region so we build a foundation for higher standards of living for our region and greater social stability for all.