The online edition of the Norwalk Advocate is once again leading with Stamford stories. Think they’re trying to tell us something? Today its about Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy talking about the direction Stamford is going. A snip:
In looking forward, Malloy cited the work of author Richard Florida, whose latest book, “Who’s Your City?,” identifies Stamford as one of the best “medium-sized” regions in the country in which to live at almost any age.
Florida argues the economic health of a place is determined by what it can offer sought-after employees.
Diversity, an arts scene and various types of housing are among the metrics by which communities will increasingly be measured, Malloy said, since they appeal to employers looking to hire creative people.
“If you look at what he is saying, it is very much about what we have been doing the last 12, 13 years,” Malloy said of Florida’s work.”Who’s Your City?” ranked Stamford and its surrounding region as a “best buy” in its size category for recent college graduates - gay or straight. The book also included the region as among the ideal places for mid-career professionals, families with children, empty-nesters and retirees.
Naturally, the drive towards keeping that edge lies with development and mass transportation solutions. Two things very much on the table in Norwalk. And further up the line, Bridgeport’s Mayor Bill Finch is also eyeing the same trends.
Norwalk must keep its eye on the new creative class.
source: Advocate, Malloy: City draws creative workers, By Wynne Parry, April 11, 2008
