In May 2021, the Kankakee-Iroquois Regional Planning Commission (K-IRPC) launched an effort to strengthen its ability to withstand and recover from economic disruptions. Working with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) contributed expertise to create a regional Economic Resilience Strategythat ran through February 2022.
Project Purpose
The project’s goal was clear: enhance the region’s ability to respond to and recover from economic disruptions, especially those highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To achieve this, the strategy assessed local assets and vulnerabilities, examined community priorities, and laid out a roadmap for strengthening recovery and long-term resilience.
CREC’s Role
CREC provided critical support throughout the process, including:
- Designing and administering stakeholder surveys and focus groups
- Facilitating strategy sessions with regional partners
- Conducting research into existing regional assets, strategies, support programs, and outreach efforts
- Identifying threats to recovery, gaps in support, and opportunities for collaboration
Methodology
The work combined qualitative engagement and quantitative analysis. CREC facilitated interviews and focus groups to surface regional concerns such as infrastructure gaps, broadband access, and public service needs. At the same time, data on employment, commuting, and income levels was analyzed to pinpoint strengths and vulnerabilities. Prior planning documents were also reviewed to ensure alignment with community goalsNew Quals Descriptions.
Outcomes
The result was a COVID-19 Recovery Plan that provides a step-by-step guide for building resilience, supported by objective performance measures. Key recommendations included:
- Improving broadband and transportation infrastructure
- Supporting agribusiness diversification
- Expanding collaboration among jurisdictions
- Developing protocols for economic shock recovery
- Advancing quality-of-life initiatives
- Supporting entrepreneurship
- Leveraging state and federal partnerships
By adopting this strategy, K-IRPC positioned itself as a central convener and coordinator of regional development and resilience efforts