Can McClellan become a research and development hub, a mecca for innovators and visionaries, and a draw for the film industry besides? If you ask anyone attending a strategy meeting at the Buckner Center last Thursday afternoon, and the answer would be an enthusiastic yes.

Chris Engle, Vice President of Angelou Economics, told the group of business and community leaders that McClellan has 80% of the assets that make a good research park already in place. It is the last 20% that is the key in helping McClellan meet its full potential.

McClellan is well situated with a high quality of living, unique aesthetics, college and university programs on site, available housing, amenities such as golf and fine dining, proximity to both Atlanta and Birmingham, and lots of room to grow. McClellan has a great live/work mixture, but is lacking the innovation incubator that could spawn new industry and new ideas, Engle told the group of about two dozen.

That is where John Bosch, of the Environmental Protection Agency, is ready to step in. Bosch has been bringing leaders of the EPA, Homeland Security, Law Enforcement Technology and others to discuss common goals and brainstorm solutions. He points out that all kinds of small industries grew up around Los Alamos and McClellan could be the same.

A leadership role by Jacksonville State Univeristy is also vital to a cutting edge atmosphere similar to the Research Triangle of North Carolina. JSU will have to broaden its scope as a research university.

The JPA's role as sole entity governing the property is a very large plus. This allows for big picture planning and a long range scope of vision. Engle encouraged the JPA to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy. According to JPA Executive Director Dan Cleckler, steps are being taken to achieve that goal.

Success, said Engle, happens through leadership and volunteerism in the local community.

To learn more about economic development and strategies for growth and development at McClellan, visit www.mcclellanresearch.com

Read coverage of this meeting in the 11/17/2006 edition of the Anniston Star