Licking County, OH
Regional Conservation and Development Strategy

In early 2022, one of the most recognized multinational brands, Intel, committed a $20 billion investment in the western part of Licking County, Ohio. It is the largest economic development effort in the State of Ohio, and is estimated to bring 3,000 workers and 7,000 construction jobs with Intel’s first phase. In a region already experiencing growth, this investment will also be augmented by suppliers and other supportive development. Planning NEXT was selected by neutral convener, the Thomas J. Evans Foundation, to lead an unprecedented collaboration by 15 local jurisdictions, and other key stakeholders, to craft the Framework that will provide guidance to participating communities. In this capacity, Planning NEXT has devised, facilitated, and helped to shape an aligned development and conservation strategy for this dynamic time.

Alignment of partners

The work began by bringing together a Leadership Group, including elected representatives from each jurisdiction plus leadership from public and private sector partners. An intensive initial phase included nearly 2,000 surveys, over 80 interviews of key stakeholders, and the assessment of dozens of local land use plans as well as county-wide studies focused on transportation, utilities, comprehensive community plans, housing and school district growth. Through these engagements, the team integrated a vast amount of insight and many divergent perspectives into productive and forward-thinking discussions.

Assessment of impact

The technical analysis focused on understanding the complicated interrelationship between development housing, employment and industry, transportation and mobility, utilities, schools, and more. It includes analysis of zoning constraints and compatibility, development pipeline and capacity, infrastructure needs and priorities and environmental constraints to set a clear direction on where and what type of development is desired in the future.

Momentum for action

From the outset, a clear path for implementation was prioritized, designed to build a shared commitment to long-term cooperation. It included guidance for communities to act through local policies, programs, and projects, and to work together in pursuing financial resources and developing an organizational structure for implementation.

Related News

Final Plan Document

FRAMEWORK

Tags

Project Type: strategic growth framework plan
Community Type: county
Client: Licking County
Services: strategic planning, land use planning, community engagement