Planning for Growth

The Brainerd Lakes area is committed to economic growth and has created a strong foundation on which to build it. In 2002, a U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration grant combined with local contributions provided funding for the creation of an economic development strategy. The Vision 2020 Economic Vitality Task Force, composed of area leaders and representatives, worked in conjunction with a private consulting firm to create a three-year economic development plan for the region. Key industries particularly well suited for development were identified and include:

Download the Economic Development Vision and Three-Year Action Plan
Download the 2020 Economic Vitality Task Force Brainerd Lakes Area Assessment of the Economy

Regional Planning Initiative
"Intelligent Growth: Regional Planning for the Lakes Area" is a collaborative effort of more than 30 local units of government, numerous businesses, and organizations who have signed and adopted the resolution to help our Crow Wing and Southern Cass County communities work together to plan for the future. The goal is to develop a multi-jurisdictional regional plan addressing areas such as transportation, zoning, infrastructure, etc.