Economic Development
Regional Overview
The Nebraska Panhandle is a rural region made up of 11-counties on the high plains, surrounded by nearby neighbors Wyoming, Colorado, and South Dakota. Agriculture and related industries are the clear backbone of the region while transportation and logistics, bio-medical, manufacturing, energy, education, and recreation are also industry strengths. Most of the Panhandle’s 81,000 (2019) population resides in the roughly 44 small towns that freckle the region, which range from the bustling micropolitan area of Scottsbluff-Gering to the pop. 116 Village of Whitney. The collaborative and hardworking ethic, the connection to land and community, and rugged landscape steeped in history unite Panhandle residents and make our region a special place to live and visit.
Brownfields Redevelopment
A brownfield typically is a commercial or industrial property that is vacant, abandoned, or underutilized and may be impacted by hazardous substances, pollutants, or other contaminants.
EDA CEDS Program
PADD develops and implements a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the region.
Heartland Expressway
Project Assistance
PADD provides grant writing, administration, and technical assistance for many regional projects.