"Growth Is Inevitable. Our Greatest Challenge Is How We Manage It."
The following discussion is an illustration of how complex problems in order to determine its root cause. In this case, it is not the condition of that roads that is the sole cause of traffic congestion. Rather, it is also caused by a lack of jobs. Looks can be deceiving.
This is no denying that there are a number of macroeconomic forces at play that are shaping the future of Manatee County. The most significant evidence is seen in the dramatic increase in population which has been accelerating over recent years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis via FRED®
This trend is expected to continue. In their Bulletin 198, The University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research, Florida Population Studies, projects that Manatee County population will be 503,100 by 2030. This surge in population causes strains on the existing infrastructure resulting in traffic congestion and environmental impacts.
Why All The Traffic?
You see it everyday, everywhere. An increase in population means more members of the workforce. These folks commute daily mostly to jobs located outside of the county. In fact, it is estimated that 88,193* workers leave Manatee County on their daily commute, making the county a “Bedroom Community” and a “Drive Through” rather than a “Drive To” work destination.
*Source: U.S. Census Bureau, OnTheMap Application and Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics program as per Florida Commerce, below.
This means that Manatee County is a net exporter of labor resulting in economic loss. Continued housing growth without job creation worsens congestion without improving economic strength. And improving roads without adding jobs simply makes it easier to direct workers to other counties.
The Solution: Strategic Business Development.
This work imbalance can be resolved by identifying and attracting the right kinds of businesses which align with the objectives of the county’s Strategic Plan.
This would benefit the county in a number of ways:
- Expanding in‑county employment aligns job growth with population growth.
- Creating more local jobs reduces the need for out‑of‑county commuting.
- Fewer daily commutes relieve traffic congestion and reduce infrastructure strain.
- Keeping jobs local ensures that wages, spending, and investment stay in Manatee County.
Where Would This Occur?
District 1 of Manatee County supports a wide array of business enterprises. From large scale Agricultural operations to a world class seaport, District 1 has a long history of supporting business growth.
Business Development at scale will require development along corridors with infrastructure in place to support job growth. So a logical place to start would be SeaPort Manatee.
SeaPort Manatee is an impressive economic asset. It generates more than $7.3 billion in annual economic impact while providing for more than 42,000 direct and indirect jobs, all without benefit of local property tax support. But it may also provide a basis for technology related businesses attracting higher paying jobs.
