CLEVELAND, Tenn. -- The public is being asked to imagine what Bradley County will look like a quarter century from now and what needs to be done to get ready.
A planning forum Thursday is part of a strategic process being coordinated by the consulting firm of McBride, Dale and Clarion. The company is looking at the entire local way of life, from transportation to recreation, economic development to education.
Part of that look is public opinion, said Gary Farlow, president and CEO of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce.
IF YOU GO* What: Forum on Bradley County growth* When: 6 p.m. Thursday* Where: Cleveland/Bradley Public Library, 795 Church St. NE* Includes: Updates on study and public comment* Information: Visit www.bcc2035.com or call city and county planning offices.
"Approximately 30,000 new residents, 14,000 new housing units and 19,000 more jobs are expected in Bradley County by 2035," Mr. Farlow said. "That's roughly another Cleveland."
Where and how that growth occurs will affect the community's appearance and quality of life and the cost of government services, he said.
"Good information is needed to make good decisions," said County Mayor D. Gary Davis. "This long-range vision will help us prepare for changes expected as a result of several major new investments, including the new Volkswagen plant just seven miles from our county line and the Wacker Chemical plant on the north end of the county."
The planning includes partners such as the Chamber, Cleveland Utilities, Volunteer Energy and local governments.
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