Three regional groups got together yesterday to compare and share notes about the strength and diversity of the local economy.
The move is in response to Caterpillar’s announcement that it plans to move 300 of its top executives and its headquarters to Chicago this year. The Peoria Area Chamber and its partner groups along with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Downtown Development Commission participated.
CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council Jennifer Daly says the newly completed job projection survey estimates the addition of 9,200 jobs in the area over the next two years.
“We will miss those 300 friends and neighbors who will call another city their home and we know they will miss our wonderful lifestyle. But greater Peoria will move forward, not only as the proud hometown of Caterpillar, but as so much more than just big yellow,” Daly said.
Daly says they surveyed 41 of the largest regional employers, with most planning to grow.