Why "Readiness" Is the New Economic Development Strategy: Jon Kramer in Forbes

Why Readiness Is the New Economic Development Strategy: Jon Kramer in Forbes

In the latest Forbes Business Council article, “Why ‘Readiness Is the New Economic Development Strategy,” OHM Advisors President Jon Kramer highlights that while communities cannot predict every opportunity that comes their way, they can choose to build the infrastructure and readiness needed to seize those opportunities when they arise.

Kramer emphasizes that preparatory work must begin years in advance through careful planning, asset management and coordinated investment. He explains that when companies evaluate potential locations for expansion or relocation, incentives may help attract attention, but strong infrastructure is often what influences long-term investment decisions.

Infrastructure is not what follows economic development. It is what makes economic development possible.

Detroit’s recent momentum serves as a compelling example of what is possible when communities commit to long-term infrastructure investment, with sustained public and private investment helping reshape the city’s trajectory. While highly visible redevelopment projects have helped transform perceptions of Detroit, Jon notes that the real engine of long-term growth lies beneath the surface. Strategic investments in water, sewer, stormwater, transportation and other critical infrastructure systems create the capacity needed to support development, strengthen neighborhoods and sustain economic momentum.

When people think about infrastructure, they picture the roads they travel, the bridges they cross and the parks and buildings they use every day. While these investments are highly visible, some of the most invaluable assets supporting a community remain largely unseen. Jon explains how this can be a tough challenge for community leaders, who are often not asked to invest in infrastructure until a problem becomes visible. To help navigate these decisions, he shares four key principles that underscore the importance of proactive planning and long-term readiness.

This article marks Jon’s sixth contribution to Forbes Business Council, following his earlier pieces on Why “Community Advancement” Is the Future of Infrastructure Delivery, How AI and Digital Engineering are Redefining the Future of Infrastructure and Leadership Lessons from Human-Centered Infrastructure Design.

Read the full Forbes article here. 

About OHM Advisors

OHM Advisors is known as the community advancement firm designing award-winning work across the architecture, engineering and planning spheres. Founded in 1962, we believe in the power of multidisciplinary teamwork to find ideas that aren’t just different – they are better. Recognized as an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm, our nearly 1,000-person team operates from offices in multiple states throughout the U.S., partnering with leaders at all government levels, school districts, developers, universities and private companies to create great places for people.