Description: This report discusses the changing demographics and growth shifts in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Over the past three years, the Dallas/Fort Worth Metropolitan Area, along with most other regions of the country, has seen some hard economic times. The tech wreck, the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks, and the national economic downturn have reduced the region's employment by about 100,000. We should keep in mind, however, that current payroll employment is about 2.8 million-indicating a fairly small job loss in percentage terms. This report, by the University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research, discusses how allowing for the region's recent economic vicissitudes, the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex has been the most dynamic urban area in the nation since 1990. As the national economic recovery gains steam, the DFW Metroplex is sure to rebound in tandem.

Description: This report examines the economy in Oak Point (Texas). Oak Point (Texas), located in southeast Denton County, was incorporated in 1976 and currently encompasses a land area of 5.7 square miles. This area has experienced rapid population growth in recent years; however it maintains its rural character. At present, Oak Point includes no commercial, retail, or industrial structures. City government buildings, parks, and churches are the only other current land uses. This report, by the University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research, identifies businesses that make the most sense for Oak Point and also calculates the economic, employment, and fiscal benefits that would attend business development in the city. It also looks at the experience of other Metroplex cities that have witnessed rapid growth over the past decade.

Description: This report discusses the economic and fiscal impacts of Baylor Regional Medical Center Grapevine. This report, by the University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research, outlines the regional economic and fiscal impacts from Baylor-Grapevine's construction spending and ongoing operations. Estimates of the economic impacts are calculated using the DFW model of the IMPLAN impact modeling system developed by the Minnesota IMPLAN Group. This model, which is well-regarded by academic and professional researchers, provides reasonable and conservative estimates of direct, indirect, and induced impacts.

Description: Homelessness has significant economic as well as social consequences for the City of Dallas. While offering compassion to the homeless, this report also acknowledges that the overwhelming presence of homeless persons on the streets of downtown has negative economic impacts on individual businesses, the prospects for redevelopment, and the city's finances. This report, by the University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research, discusses theses aspects.

Description: Recognizing the importance of a reliable long-term water supply, the Dallas/Fort Worth region has invested heavily in reservoirs and transmission facilities over the past 50 years. Indeed, the dramatic population and employment growth enjoyed by the Metroplex over the past several decades would not have occurred absent an abundant and reliable supply of fresh water for residential and commercial uses. Despite the foresightedness of the region's leaders, according to the Texas Water Development Board the region may soon find itself facing a water deficit. This report, by the University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research, examines the implications of the DFW area's long-term water and transportation needs.