In 2019, Jacksonville State University’s Center for Economic Development and Business Research was contracted by the Southern Rail Commission to conduct an economic impact study for the expansion of passenger rail in the state of Alabama for various economic corridors and rail connecting centers. Previous feasibility studies looking at potential passenger rail corridors between; Montgomery to Mobile, Atlanta to Birmingham and Birmingham to Montgomery were used as the guide to identify areas to measure. Factors such as tourism, employment, construction, operations, spending and anticipated users were analyzed to derive a dollar output therefore an impact on the state.  As modes of transportation continue to be planned and the growing importance of alternatives need to be considered, rail and its consortium of connections are a link to the future. 

 
SPEAKER
Jennifer Green
Director Jacksonville State University Center for Economic Development and Business Research
Jennifer Green is the director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research at Jacksonville State University as well as one of their alumni. Green and her team have produced dozens of economic research reports, performed human resource consulting for a variety of clients, along with many other project types. Green leads the CEDBR in its mission to provide accurate, timely and reliable information and analysis to inform decision-making in the public and private sectors.

CONTACT INFO
Benjamin Wieseman

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