Strong, productive factories rely on a network of infrastructure they depend on, but don’t necessarily think of, on a daily basis.  It’s only when a catastrophic water main break or other utility problem pops up, that we are reminded of the systems on which we depend.  WIRE-Net took the initiative in 2002 to create its first 5-year Capital Investment Plan.  By collecting input from constituents throughout the area, 10 projects, representing $35 million, were defined and prioritized.  Next, WIRE-Net moved into advocacy mode, making the case for these projects to those with authority over the purse strings of public investment monies. 

By all accounts they met with success.  Under that first Plan, over $35 million has been invested in infrastructure projects, with an impact on 348 manufacturing companies in Cleveland.

Now, plans are in the works to create a new Capital Investment Plan.  We look forward to keeping a light shining on this component of manufacturing success in the area.