SmartZone Is One Step Closer in Jackson

June 30--On behalf of the community and the Blackman Township Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. submitted the Jackson Technology Park Smart Zone (JTPSZ) application June 27. A SmartZone allows a community to capture taxes from an LDFA to create infrastructure improvements to attract high technology companies.

The Jackson SmartZone encompasses a majority of the Blackman LDFA property. Capitalizing on the area's best assets, the SmartZone will serve as the catalyst to launch a technology cluster, targeting the same key industries that the State of Michigan targets. The entire Jackson community is committed and motivated to diversify its current economy, and is ready to embrace and become the home to the critical industries of tomorrow.

“We are hopeful the community will receive a SmartZone designation,” said Scott Fleming, president & CEO of The Enterprise Group of Jackson. “It would make our community much more attractive to potential new businesses.”

The application process was a collaborative effort involving The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth, Baker College, Jackson Community College, Spring Arbor University, Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, State Representatives Griffin and Simpson, State Senators Richardville and Schauer, and was endorsed by all local units of government.