The Buckeye Hills Regional Council has introduced an updated regional economic development roadmap named Buckeye Hills Forward: A Regional Economic Plan. This strategy, formally approved by the U.S. Economic Development Administration on July 19, 2025, sets a collaborative vision for economic advancement across eight counties in Southeast Ohio: Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Noble, Perry, and Washington.
Sam Miller, Development Director at Buckeye Hills, emphasized that the plan is rooted in local input. “This initiative reflects a grassroots-driven model of economic growth, shaped by the insights and priorities of residents and professionals throughout the region,” Miller stated. “It enables us to leverage our assets, confront systemic challenges, and collectively foster job creation, economic diversification, and long-term community vitality.”
Over the next five years, the council will collaborate with municipal authorities, economic development groups, private enterprises, nonprofit organizations, and citizens to execute the outlined strategies. Key actions include advancing locally initiated projects aligned with regional objectives, attracting funding from state, federal, and private sources, and delivering technical support in data analysis, geographic mapping, strategic planning, and grant acquisition to help communities realize their visions.
The plan focuses efforts on eight strategic areas: Agriculture, Energy Development, Housing, Manufacturing, Outdoor Recreation, Small Business Core, Workforce Access Barriers, and Regional Leadership.
Earlier in the year, the council conducted a series of public forums across the region to gather feedback and promote awareness of the plan’s goals. These sessions offered residents, officials, and stakeholders an opportunity to engage in shaping the future of their communities.
“This plan belongs to everyone in the region,” Miller added. “It identifies key areas for strengthening the local economy, investing in infrastructure, supporting workers, and protecting the unique character of Southeast Ohio. Importantly, it’s designed to evolve—serving as a dynamic framework that we’ll refine over time as we work toward achieving its objectives.”
Progress will be assessed annually, with strategy adjustments made as needed. Updates and milestones will be shared regularly via buckeyehills.org/forward.
For additional information about the Buckeye Hills Regional Council, visit www.buckeyehills.org, call 740-374-9436 or 1-800-331-2644 (toll-free), or email info@buckeyehills.org.
— news from mariettatimes.com
— News Original —
Buckeye Hills Regional Council releases Buckeye Hills Forward: A Regional Economic Plan
Buckeye Hills Regional Council has unveiled the latest update of its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), titled Buckeye Hills Forward: A Regional Economic Plan. n nThe document outlines a shared vision for economic growth and resilience across eight counties in Southeast Ohio: Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Noble, Perry, and Washington. n nApproved by the U.S. Economic Development Administration on July 19, 2025, Buckeye Hills Forward is more than a strategic plan, said Buckeye Hills Development Director Sam Miller. n n“Buckeye Hills Forward reflects a regionally driven approach to economic development built by the voices, ideas, and priorities of the people who live and work in Southeast Ohio,” Miller said. “Buckeye Hills Forward helps us identify our strengths, address our challenges, and work together to create good jobs, diversify our economy, and build a more vibrant future.” n nOver the next five years, Buckeye Hills Regional Council will work closely with local governments, economic development organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and residents to implement the initiatives outlined in the plan. Key priorities include: n n¯Launching community-driven projects that align with regional goals. n n¯Securing state, federal, and private investment to support economic growth. n n¯Providing data, mapping, planning, and grant support to help communities bring their ideas to life. n nThe plan directs these efforts toward eight goal areas: Agriculture, Energy Development, Housing, Manufacturing, Outdoor Recreation, Small Business Core, Barriers to Workforce, and Regional Leadership. n nEarlier this year, Buckeye Hills hosted a series of open house sessions across Southeast Ohio to gather input and share the vision behind Buckeye Hills Forward. n nThese events provided a platform for residents, local officials, and stakeholders to consider the future of their communities. n n“Buckeye Hills Forward belongs to all of us,” Miller added. “It outlines priorities for strengthening our economy, investing in infrastructure, supporting our workforce, and preserving what makes this region special. Most importantly, it’s a living document–a guide that we will adapt and update as we work together to make its goals a reality.” n nBuckeye Hills Regional Council will track progress annually, update strategies as conditions change, and share regular updates and milestones at buckeyehills.org/forward. n nTo learn more about Buckeye Hills Regional Council, visit www.buckeyehills.org, call 740-374-9436 or 1-800-331-2644 (toll-free), or email info@buckeyehills.org.