🤝 Power Play: Tucson's Business Titans Eye Game-Changing Merger
By the Numbers: Sun Corridor's Two-Decade Economic Impact 🚧 Growing Pains: Infrastructure Hurdles in Tucson's Path to Prosperit
Based on the 10/10/24 Buckmaster Show on KVOI-1030AM.
🙊 Notable quotes from the show
"We're creating manufacturing jobs at a pace that exceeds both Arizona and Phoenix." - Joe Snell, highlighting Tucson's economic growth
"They love downtown. They love the Renaissance of the downtown. And it's important to when you, they go to a track town and, and that wasn't the case 20 years ago." - Joe Snell, on the transformation of downtown Tucson
"We're facing a shortage of physicians in this community. In real critical areas." - Joe Snell, addressing a critical challenge for Tucson
"Right now over 20 related business organizations like Sun Corridor in the area. And the feedback through all these focus groups was we'd better align these groups to create a unified voice." - Joe Snell, on the potential merger with the Chamber of Commerce
⏮️ ICYMI: From the Last Show…
🔥 VP Harris Takes the Lead: Is 2024 the New 1860?
Based on the 10/08/24 Buckmaster Show on KVOI-1030AM.
😽 Keepin’ It Simple Summary for Younger Readers
👧🏾✊🏾👦🏾
🛫 Tucson's airport is getting more flights to new places! ✈️ That means it's easier for people to visit or for you to go on vacation. 🏙️ The city is also getting more cool jobs in science and technology. 🤖 But there are some problems too, like fixing roads 🛣️ and making sure there are enough doctors. 👩⚕️ A group called Sun Corridor is working hard to make Tucson an even better place to live and work. 🌵🌞 They've been doing this for 20 years and want to team up with another group to do even more!
🗝️ Takeaways
🛬 Tucson International Airport is spreading its wings with new nonstop flights, signaling economic growth
💼 Sun Corridor Inc. has shepherded Tucson's economy from call centers to high-tech industries over 20 years
🏙️ Downtown Tucson's revitalization is a major asset, attracting businesses and residents alike
🇲🇽 Proximity to Mexico is seen as a golden opportunity but requires strategic planning to capitalize fully
🩺 Tucson faces a more severe physician shortage than other Arizona areas, prompting targeted recruitment efforts
🤝 Potential merger between Sun Corridor and Chamber of Commerce aims to create a unified business voice
Jump to the 🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary based on:
📻 What They Discussed
On October 10, 2024, The Buckmaster Show, a prominent Tucson radio program hosted by veteran journalist Bill Buckmaster, aired a compelling episode focusing on Southern Arizona's economic development and air travel landscape. The show featured two distinguished guests:
Brian Kidd, the Deputy Chief of Strategic Marketing and Air Service Development for Tucson International Airport and
Joe Snell, the President and CEO of Sun Corridor Inc.
These experts provided insights into the region's evolving transportation connectivity and economic growth strategies.
✈️ Soaring to New Heights: Tucson International Airport's Expanding Horizons
Tucson International Airport (TUS) is on an upward trajectory, with Brian Kidd unveiling exciting developments to enhance the region's air travel options. The airport's success story begins with its impressive load factors, which have been among the highest in the Western United States. This strong performance has caught airlines' attention, leading to increased capacity and new routes.
The standout announcement was introducing a new nonstop service to Sacramento, scheduled to commence in January 2025. Two carriers will serve this route, each with its own strategic approach. Alaska Airlines will offer daily flights from January 6 to April 21, providing consistent service through the peak winter and spring seasons.
Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines will test the waters with weekend-only flights starting March 8, a typical strategy for the carrier when exploring new markets.
The dual-carrier approach to the Sacramento route expands travelers' options and signals strong confidence in the demand between Tucson and California's capital. As Kidd noted, "I think there's demand for everybody," highlighting the potential for both airlines to succeed in this market.
Beyond Sacramento, TUS is seeing growth in other markets as well. Portland, Oregon, is set to benefit from increased service, with Alaska Airlines boosting its offering to two daily flights on peak days. This expansion is part of Alaska's broader strategy to rebuild its Portland hub, which had been scaled back during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Alaska Airlines' renewal of Orange County service marks another win for Tucson, maintaining a crucial link to Southern California. Kidd expressed relief at this development, stating, "We made the cut at this, which is great. It was definitely a trial market, and we've survived another round."
The airport's success isn't limited to these specific routes. Kidd emphasized that TUS has been leading the Western U.S. in load factors, a key metric that measures the percentage of seats filled on flights. This impressive performance has not gone unnoticed by airlines, leading to a virtuous cycle of high demand spurring increased capacity.
This expansion of air service is more than just a convenience for travelers; it's a critical component of Tucson's economic development strategy. Enhanced connectivity makes the region more attractive for businesses considering relocation or expansion, supports tourism growth, and facilitates easier travel for local residents and businesses.
🏙️ Two Decades of Transformation: Sun Corridor Inc.'s Impact on Tucson's Economy
Joe Snell, representing Sun Corridor Inc., took the opportunity to reflect on the organization's 20-year journey and its profound impact on Tucson's economic landscape. The numbers alone tell a story of significant growth: 211 business relocations or expansions, 59,000 jobs supported, and a remarkable $339 billion in economic impact over two decades.
However, the true measure of Sun Corridor's success lies not just in the quantity of economic activity but in the qualitative shift in the types of industries and jobs it has attracted to the region.
Snell pointed out a stark contrast: "Twenty years ago, when we were established, we were mainly call centers in that pipeline. So a lot has changed in the last twenty years."
Today, Sun Corridor's focus has evolved to target higher-value industries such as manufacturing, semiconductors, aerospace, and clean energy. This strategic pivot has elevated the region's economic profile and enhanced its resilience to economic fluctuations.
Snell attributed the organization's longevity and effectiveness to its structure as a genuine public-private partnership. Unlike previous economic development initiatives in Tucson, Sun Corridor has maintained strong support and involvement from the private sector.
"I think that's what's kept us so long as we're driven pretty heavy by the private sector in what we do," Snell explained.
As part of its 20th-anniversary activities, Sun Corridor conducted a comprehensive competitiveness study, gathering insights from local leaders and external site selectors. The results highlighted several key strengths of the Tucson region:
Downtown revitalization: The transformation of Tucson's urban core has garnered positive attention. Snell emphasized, "They love downtown. They love the Renaissance of the downtown. And it's important to when you, they go to a track town and, and that wasn't the case 20 years ago."
Educational assets: The University of Arizona and Pima Community College, particularly their centers of excellence, are viewed as critical components of the region's economic future.
Population growth: The influx of new residents signals a vibrant, attractive community - a key factor for businesses considering relocation.
Proximity to Mexico: This is seen as a major asset, though Snell noted that fully capitalizing on this proximity will require a strategic economic approach beyond just cultural ties.
However, the study also identified challenges that Tucson must address to maintain and enhance its competitive edge:
Infrastructure needs: Locals and outsiders pointed to the need for improvement in Tucson's road infrastructure.
Land availability: The scarcity of large, development-ready land parcels hinders Tucson's ability to attract certain projects, particularly those requiring significant acreage.
Healthcare workforce: Tucson is grappling with a more acute shortage of physicians than other parts of Arizona, prompting a focused recruitment effort led by former Tucson Medical Center CEO Judy Rich.
🤝 Unifying Forces: Exploring a Sun Corridor-Chamber Merger
Sun Corridor Inc. and the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce announced that they are exploring a potential partnership or merger in a potentially game-changing move for Tucson's economic development landscape. This development, revealed at Sun Corridor's 20th-anniversary event, comes in response to feedback from local leadership about the need for greater alignment among business groups.
Joe Snell explained the rationale behind this exploration: "Right now over 20 related business organizations like Sun Corridor in the area. And the feedback through all these focus groups was we'd better align these groups to create a unified voice."
The potential merger is seen as a strategy to reduce duplication of efforts, create a more cohesive voice for the business community, and potentially amplify the impact of both organizations. Snell noted that this move aligns with trends across the country, where economic development organizations (which often spun out of Chambers of Commerce in the past) are now rejoining forces.
The two organizations have set an ambitious timeline to complete their due diligence process and reach a decision by January 1, 2025. While the exact structure of this potential partnership remains to be determined, options could range from a complete merger under a single brand to a holding company structure that maintains some separation while ensuring coordination at the top level.
This potential unification represents a significant shift in Tucson's economic development and business advocacy approach. By combining the strengths and resources of these two major organizations, Tucson could present a more unified front in its efforts to attract businesses, advocate for policies, and address regional economic challenges.
🌵 Cultivating Growth in the Desert: Tucson's Economic Evolution
The discussions on the Buckmaster Show painted a picture of a Tucson actively shaping its economic future, building on its unique assets while addressing its challenges. The city's economic evolution is evident in several key areas:
Diversification of industries: From a reliance on call centers two decades ago, Tucson has successfully attracted a more diverse range of industries, including high-tech manufacturing, aerospace, and clean energy.
Infrastructure development: While challenges remain, particularly in road infrastructure, downtown Tucson's revitalization has been a significant success story, attracting positive attention from both residents and outside observers.
Educational partnerships: The strong emphasis on the University of Arizona and Pima Community College as economic assets underscores the importance of education and workforce development in Tucson's economic strategy.
International connections: The recognition of Tucson's proximity to Mexico as a significant asset signals a growing awareness of the potential for international trade and cooperation to drive economic growth.
Healthcare focus: The initiative to address physician shortages demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining and improving quality of life factors that are crucial for economic development.
Collaborative approach: The potential merger between Sun Corridor Inc. and the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce reflects a trend towards greater cooperation and alignment in economic development efforts.
As Tucson continues to navigate its economic future, the insights shared on the Buckmaster Show highlight both the progress made and the work that lies ahead. The city's ability to leverage its strengths - from its revitalized downtown to its strategic location - while addressing challenges like infrastructure and workforce needs will be crucial in determining its trajectory in the coming years.
The show's discussions reveal a city that is not content to rest on its laurels but is actively working to position itself as a competitive, attractive destination for businesses and residents alike. As Tucson approaches its next economic development chapter, the strategies and initiatives outlined by Brian Kidd and Joe Snell will play a pivotal role in shaping Old Pueblo's future in the global economy.
🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary
The Hidden Costs of Tucson's "Economic Miracle": A Critical Look at Growth, Equity, and Sustainability
In the sun-baked streets of our beloved Old Pueblo, a narrative of economic renaissance is woven by Tucson's power brokers. The recent Buckmaster Show, featuring Brian Kidd of Tucson International Airport and Joe Snell of Sun Corridor Inc., painted a picture of a city on the rise - new flight routes, tech industry growth, and a revitalized downtown. But as progressive Chicanos and stewards of this desert land, we must peer behind the glittering facade and ask: ¿A qué costo? At what cost does this progress come?
The Mirage of Unchecked Growth
Joe Snell, celebrating Sun Corridor's 20-year impact, proudly declared, "We've done a lot of good in the 20 years with 211 locations and expansions, you know, 59,000 jobs supported, $339 billion in economic impact." These numbers, impressive at first glance, deserve scrutiny.
Can we sustain this level of growth in our fragile desert ecosystem? As climate change tightens its grip on the Southwest, bringing hotter summers and scarcer water, we must question the wisdom of unchecked expansion.
While touted as progress, the shift from call centers to high-tech industries raises environmental concerns. Manufacturing and tech sectors often involve significant resource demands and potential pollution. Yet, the discussion of this transformation did not mention environmental safeguards or sustainability measures. As descendants of those who have tended this land for millennia, we are responsible for ensuring that economic development doesn't come at the expense of our sacred desert home.
The Border: Asset or Exploitation?
Perhaps most troubling was Snell's framing of Tucson's proximity to Mexico as a "huge asset" that could be a "game changer." While cross-border cooperation can be beneficial, this language echoes centuries of exploitation. Our Mexican brothers and sisters are not resources to be tapped for economic gain but equal partners in building a just and prosperous region.
Snell noted, "We need to have an economic strategy, not just what we've always had, which is a cultural connection." This statement betrays a narrow, capitalist view of U.S.-Mexico relations that ignores the rich tapestry of shared history, family ties, and cultural exchange that defines our borderlands. Any economic strategy must be rooted in mutual respect, fair labor practices, and a commitment to lifting up communities on both sides of La Frontera.
The Downtown Dilemma: Revitalization or Gentrification?
The show's guests gushed about downtown Tucson's transformation. "They love downtown. They love the Renaissance of the downtown," Snell reported. But this renaissance has a dark side unmentioned in the discussion: gentrification. As trendy restaurants and luxury apartments sprout up, long-time residents - many from historically marginalized communities - face skyrocketing rents and cultural displacement.
The comparison to Denver's development is particularly alarming. Denver's growth has led to widespread gentrification, pushing out Chicano communities from historic neighborhoods. Are we doomed to repeat this pattern in Tucson? Where in this discussion of economic development is the plan for affordable housing, for preserving barrio culture, and for ensuring that the fruits of growth are shared equitably?
The Healthcare Crisis: Symptoms of a Deeper Malady
The show highlighted Tucson's acute physician shortage, with Snell noting, "We're facing a shortage of physicians in this community. In real critical areas." This crisis is alarming, but it's a symptom of deeper, systemic issues unaddressed in the discussion. Why is Tucson struggling more than other Arizona cities to attract and retain doctors? Could it be related to underfunded public health infrastructure, income inequality, or a lack of community investment in historically underserved areas?
The proposed solution - recruiting more doctors - is a band-aid on a gaping wound. Where is the discussion of addressing root causes? Should we invest in education to create homegrown healthcare professionals from our community? Is tackling the social determinants of health that make our community less attractive to physicians in the first place?
Land Use: Development at What Cost?
The lament over lack of large land parcels for development is particularly concerning. In a region rich with Indigenous history and ecologically sensitive areas, the push for large-scale development threatens both cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. The discussion lacked any mention of consulting with local tribes, preserving natural habitats, or ensuring that development aligns with the long-term carrying capacity of our desert environment.
A Path Forward: Development with Justicia
As we critique, we must also propose solutions. What would equitable, sustainable development look like in Tucson?
Environmental Stewardship: Any economic development plan must include robust ecological impact assessments and prioritize sustainable industries in a future with limited water and high heat.
Community-Led Growth: Development decisions should be made with meaningful input from all community members, especially those historically excluded from these processes.
Housing Justice: Implement strong anti-gentrification measures, including rent control and community land trusts, to ensure that development benefits long-time residents, not just newcomers.
Border Respect: Develop cross-border economic strategies prioritizing fair labor practices, cultural exchange, and mutual benefit rather than exploitation.
Healthcare Equity: Address root causes of health disparities through community investment, education, and tackling social determinants of health.
Land and Water Protection: Collaborate with Indigenous communities to ensure development respects sacred lands and preserves our precious water resources for future generations.
Quality Jobs: Ensure that new jobs provide wages, benefits, and safe working conditions, with targeted opportunities for historically marginalized communities.
It's up to us, the progressive community of Tucson, to seize this moment. We must challenge the narrative of unchecked growth and demand development that centers on justice and sustainability and ensure that the future of our beloved desert home is one of prosperity for all, not just the privileged few.
The Old Pueblo stands at a precipice. Will we follow the path of soulless development that has plagued so many cities, or will we forge a new way forward, honoring our diverse heritage and the delicate balance of our desert ecosystem? The choice is ours, and the time to act is now. ¡Adelante con justicia y sostenibilidad!
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👯 People Mentioned
Brian Kidd - Deputy Chief of Strategic Marketing and Air Service Development for Tucson International Airport Quote: "Alaska really pulled down Portland after the COVID down draft and they've realized their have put their market at risk there. So they're building it back up."
Joe Snell - President and CEO of Sun Corridor Inc. Quote: "We've done a lot of good in the 20 years with 211 locates and expansions, you know, 59,000 jobs supported, $339 billion in economic impact."
Fletcher McCusker - Mentioned in relation to downtown Tucson development
Judy Rich - Recently retired CEO of Tucson Medical Center, recruited to lead physician recruitment efforts
Jordan Schnitzer - Property developer mentioned in relation to building spec buildings in Tucson
Bill Buckmaster - Host of the Buckmaster Show
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