Economic Impact: Strengthening Communities Along the I-73/74/75 Corridor
The I-73/74/75 Corridor will transform the economic landscape of the region by providing efficient access to major markets, ports, and industries. Its construction and operation are projected to generate billions in economic output while driving new business development and private investment.
Economic Impact: Driving Growth
Highway construction is among the most effective drivers of economic growth. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), investments in highway construction deliver nearly $6 of economic impact for every $1 invested, and over 42,000 jobs for every $1 billion spent.
Independent Studies
Independent studies confirm I-73’s potential, consistently demonstrating billions in projected growth, investment attraction, and business expansion:
- Economic Impact of I-73 in WV, VA & SC — [Presentation] by Chmura Economics & Analytics
- Review of I-73 and Grand Strand Expressway Alternative Economic Studies — [Study Report] by Parsons Brinckerhoff
- Proposed I-73 & SELL Corridors Hurricane Evacuation Analysis — [Study Report] | [Presentation] by Atkins
- I-73 Corridor Study: Jackson, MI to Toledo, OH — [Executive Summary] | [Full Study] by The Corradino Group
- I-73/I-74 Analysis: North Carolina — [Analysis] by Piedmont Triad Council of Governments
- Economic Impact of I-73 Construction: South Carolina — [Executive Summary] | [Full Study] | [Presentation] by Coastal Carolina University
- Economic Impact of I-73: South Carolina — [Executive Summary] | [Full Study] | [Presentation] | [Presentation] by Chmura Economics & Analytics
- Economic Impact of I-73: Virginia — [Executive Summary] | [Full Study] by Chmura Economics & Analytics
- Economic Impact of I-73 on the City of Roanoke — [Full Study] by Economic Development Research Group
- Economic Impact of I-73: West Virginia — [Executive Summary] | [Full Study] by Chmura Economics & Analytics
The Interstate System: A Proven Investment
Without the world-class system of linked highways, life in America would be far different. The Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate Highways, which began in 1946, today encompasses over 46,000 miles of efficient high-speed roadways, and is perhaps the best economic development investment our nation has ever made.
“The world's largest public works project has reshaped the American landscape and our way of life.”
— U.S. News & World Report, July 7, 2003
Interstate highway construction brings many positive changes:
- Creating jobs before, during, and after construction
- Attracting new industries
- Reducing the costs of conducting business between regions and states
- Increasing the efficiency of transporting people and freight
“The Interstate System was heralded as the greatest public works project ever. That it was. And it did, as promised, lead to an America that is more mobile, less plagued by regional differences, and vastly wealthier than before.”
— Justin Fox, Fortune Magazine, January 26, 2004
At-a-Glance Economic Benefits of I-73
Boosting Local Economies
The I-73 Corridor is set to significantly enhance local economies by facilitating smoother trade routes and attracting new businesses to the region.
Increased Tourism
With improved accessibility, the I-73 Corridor is expected to draw more tourists, boosting local hospitality and retail sectors.
Property Value Growth
Communities along the I-73 Corridor may see an increase in property values due to enhanced infrastructure and connectivity.
Investment Opportunities
The corridor presents numerous investment opportunities, encouraging economic development and innovation in connected states.