Strategic Plan

Compiled by TIP Strategies, Inc. (TIP), the plan uncovers three major findings. First, Pearland is well-positioned to capture bio-medical investments over the next five years. Major sites, access to a dynamic workforce and new investments currently underway (such as the Spectrum at Clear Creek) help reinforce this finding. Second, while Pearland is one of the metro area’s hottest suburbs and has been incorporated for decades, the city has never developed a cohesive marketing image. Defining a specific identity and a clear vision is essential before a successful economic development initiative can be launched. Third, a well-managed communications strategy must be developed, including media relations, investor relations, fundraising, maintaining close relationships with the city/chamber/residents, and gaining public support for projects.

As a result, the following five strategies are recommended in the plan:

Strategy 1: Building upon its relationship with the Texas Medical Center, the PEDC will foster development of knowledge industries in the city, especially in the biomedical field. Top priority actions will include supporting the expansion of Houston’s life sciences cluster in Pearland, managing the development of The Spectrum at Clear Creek project, identifying alternative sites for biomedical or other knowledge-industry investments and preparing additional recruitment targets.

Strategy 2: Measures will be taken to improve the city’s business climate and establish it as a suburban corporate base. The PEDC will maintain an inventory of existing businesses and prospects, study ordinances and policies for their impact on local business, review incentive policy in light of broader target industries and identify new capital resources.

Strategy 3: The PEDC will support the development of a town center, which would enhance Pearland’s competitive position in the region and nation. Initial steps that will be pursued this year include working with the city to create a downtown development group, conducting city and developer workshops to identify a site, identifying potential retailers and preparing a preliminary marketing plan.

Strategy 4: A specific retail strategy will be created to not only fine-tune target businesses, but to ensure that developments already proposed are positioned to attract higher-end and specialty retail shops to help keep Pearland’s sales dollars in the city.

Strategy 5: A comprehensive communications plan will be created to disseminate key messages about economic development to select target audiences, including residents, city officials, the chamber and the media. Specific actions will include developing a media strategy and accompanying public relations plan, as well as enhancing the city’s Web site.

 PEDC Strategic Plan (454 K)