Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation rallied the regions movers and shakers at a pair of events held May 1st and 2nd respectively.

First, LVEDC President and CEO Don Cunningham served as master of ceremonies for a very special luncheon meeting at the Sands Bethlehem Hotel. LVEDC is collaborating with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Norfolk Southern railroad and Lehigh Valley Rail Management to arrange for import/export freight service that would make a daily stop at the Intermodal rail yard in Bethlehem.

The Foundry Room was packed with regional business owners and corporate leaders, as well as developers and brokers who can all benefit from this cost-saving service. The inland port – or inland terminal – will help cut down on truck traffic to and from New York and New Jersey.

The result will be less highway and road congestion, less fuel burned and fewer emissions.

There will be more news forthcoming when the Port Authority and Norfolk Southern provide their input and approvals.

One day later, LVEDC hosted its first Brokers & Developers Council meeting at Blue Grillhouse in Bethlehem. More than 100 people gathered for cocktails and conversation.

Cunningham spoke about several initiatives being launched by LVEDC – and explained how the new six-council format would assist in guiding the actions of the economic development organization.

The next step will be the actual creation of the council, which will feature LVEDC staff, investors and members of the general public for a well-rounded view of what matters most to the region’s brokers and developers.

News of future meetings will appear in our weekly newsletters.

Upcoming LVEDC events include Monday’s “Meet the Candidates” forum at the new Gambet Center on the campus of DeSales University. In a pair of one-hour sessions, LVEDC investors, directors and partners will hear the views of those running for executive in Northampton and Lehigh counties.

Topics will be limited to job creation, economic growth and regionalism.

To attend the event, please call Laurie Demko at ldemko@lehighvalley.org or (610) 266-2218.