Bredesen outlines 2005 jobs plan

Email | Print By Drew Ruble

01-26-2005 1:49 PM — On location at the Sullivan County headquarters of helicopter firm Edwards & Associates in Piney Flats Wednesday, Governor Phil Bredesen announced his plan to set aside $20 million in the 2005 state budget for workforce training and an expansion of Tennessee’s technological infrastructure.

The $20 million investment was described by Bredesen as one-time money to “help jump-start these efforts,” according to a press release.

Portions of the money will be dedicated to helping companies already in Tennessee upgrade the skills of their employees. The remaining funds will be used to develop a statewide broadband strategy, described by Bredesen as the first step in expanding Tennessee’s technological infrastructure beyond large cities so all towns can compete for industry. Bredesen also announced funding for the creation of a new “Economic Development Leadership Institute,” where community leaders can learn the latest strategies for remaining competitive.

“We’ve successfully begun modernizing the tools in our economic development toolbox,” Bredesen stated in a press release. “We’ve recruited new industry, expanded existing enterprises, and – most importantly – created new jobs for Tennesseans.”