Economic Development

By Christopher S "Chris" Crifasi, CPA

Downtown, the heart of Riverbank/Job Creation

Four years ago I stated that Downtown Riverbank was the heart and soul of the City. Well, we've followed through and are following through on that vision. With the successful creation of the RDA we have channeled large amounts of dollars into the downtown to recreate the downtown infrastructure ahead of our plan to create a marketing plan to draw customers and businesses back downtown. One of the first steps that we have just undertaken is to light up the entire downtown with free WiFi coverage.

Job Creation,

Our residents need good paying jobs and benefits that will support a family. We are thrilled with the jobs and opportunities created b yy the Crossroads Commercial Center but we also need to provide job opportunities to our residents with special skills. The city is on the verge of acquiring the Army Ammunition Plant from the Army and the Federal Government. We have just submitted a bold reuse plan to the Army and are awaiting their review. I foresee the new Riverbank Industrial Complex as an incubator for businesses to co-create and grow with assistance from the City of Riverbank and each other. Currently there are ten businesses (aside from NI's ammunition activity)that are set to expand and grow. That growth coupled with the city's new "green industrial park" could provide the city with close to 500 jobs in the near term and potentially double that number in the few years to come.