BRAC leader outlines growth and challenges

The Capital Region saw a record $3.5 billion worth of capital investment from 13 projects announced in 2012, BRAC President/CEO Adam Knapp says. That’s more than the combined total of about $2.7 billion from 2006-2011, he says. The projects announced last year are estimated to create 1,128 direct jobs and $78.1 million in new payroll, with an average salary of $69,237. While much of last year’s growth was driven by the petrochemical sector, which is buoyed by low natural gas prices, Knapp says digital media is growing in importance—with three project announcements last year being digital media-related and more potentially on the way. Addressing the Baton Rouge Press Club today, Knapp touted several BRAC initiatives and efforts, on issues including:
• Shovel-ready sites: Helped increase the region’s number of certified sites from three to 11.
• Education policy: Supported state changes to teacher tenure and merit pay.
• Talent development: Created résumé databases for out-of-state graduates of LSU, Southern University, and four area high schools as a resource for employers, who hopefully will lure some of the graduates back to the region.
• Transportation: Supported passage of a transit tax, although Knapp says BRAC remains frustrated that a coherent transit plan hasn’t been communicated by the CATS administration to the public.
• Crime: BRAC created a “crime council” last year, and is excited about implementation of the BRAVE program in East Baton Rouge Parish.
For more information about BRAC’s recent results and a look at the 2013 strategic plan, click here. —David Jacobs