Participation Type
Paper
Session Title
Session 3.02 Economic Conditions
Presentation #1 Title
Investigating Economic Diversity in Eastern Kentucky’s Area Development Districts
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
This study investigates a range of economic diversity indicators for local and area economies in eastern Kentucky in order to improve our understanding of their composition and the concomitant risks and opportunities they face going forward. We base our analysis on data obtained from the Appalachian Economic Diversity Web Tool, a website that was sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission in order to assist community and organizational efforts aimed at fostering sustainable economic development in the region. Specifically, we examine economic diversity within and between six Area Development Districts (ADDs) in eastern Kentucky in terms of their industrial, functional, and occupational diversity. We also evaluate ADD-level data in the context of economic diversity data for Kentucky, Central Appalachia, and the United States. Finally, we review our findings in light of the most recent economic development strategic plans developed by the ADDs included in our study. Results from this study should assist area leaders and communities as they continue their efforts to improve the quality of life in eastern Kentucky.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Jessica Stewart is a graduate student in the Master of Public Administration program in the School of Public Affairs at Morehead State University where she is specializing in Non-Profit Management and Community Development.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #2
Dr. Christine Emrich is an Associate Professor of Geography in the School of Public Affairs at Morehead State University where she teaches regional analysis, public policy, and community and economic development.
Investigating Economic Diversity in Eastern Kentucky’s Area Development Districts
This study investigates a range of economic diversity indicators for local and area economies in eastern Kentucky in order to improve our understanding of their composition and the concomitant risks and opportunities they face going forward. We base our analysis on data obtained from the Appalachian Economic Diversity Web Tool, a website that was sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission in order to assist community and organizational efforts aimed at fostering sustainable economic development in the region. Specifically, we examine economic diversity within and between six Area Development Districts (ADDs) in eastern Kentucky in terms of their industrial, functional, and occupational diversity. We also evaluate ADD-level data in the context of economic diversity data for Kentucky, Central Appalachia, and the United States. Finally, we review our findings in light of the most recent economic development strategic plans developed by the ADDs included in our study. Results from this study should assist area leaders and communities as they continue their efforts to improve the quality of life in eastern Kentucky.
