Regional Economy Remains Strong

   The economic outlook of Chattanooga and Hamilton County looks brighter compared to other areas. That's the word from the latest Ochs Center state of the region report.
   David Eichenthal, "A regional economy that's centered in Hamilton County."
   The report includes Marion, Sequatchie, Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties. David Eichenthal of the Ochs Center says more than 80 percent of the regions jobs are located in Hamilton County. While the County has lost some jobs, our unemployment rate remains low.
   Eichenthal, "Tenth lowest unemployment rate in the state right now. There are other counties in the state of TN that are in double digit unemployment some as much as 18 percent."
   Most jobs were created downtown, the North Shore and near Hamilton Place. Health care and the information sector saw the most growth.
   Eichenthal, "For every manufacturing job lost there was a health care job gained."
   There were also stark differences among ethnic and gender groups.
   Eichenthal, "Both African Americans and Latinos are disproportionately high in terms of percentages in labor and service occupation categories."
   While the region faces challenges, county commission chair Jim Coppinger says there's a lot to look forward to.
   Eichenthal, "Coppinger, Alstom, Westinghouse, McKee Baking and what Blue Cross has done to just name a few. VW is the focus but it's not the only thing that's going on and let's not forget the small businesses."
   The study measured trends from 2001-2007.
   2008 has seen lots of changes on a national and local level. Local leaders hope Chattanooga and Hamilton County will continue to weather the economic storm.