Published: April 04, 2007 11:58 am      

Allegany County in time of transition, says economic development chief

CUMBERLAND - Allegany County is in a time of transition, Economic Development Director Matt Diaz told Cumberland Rotarians at their weekly meeting held at the Holiday Inn.

Since he has been working with the county, Diaz has seen a shift from a mainly industrial economy to a more diversified economy.

"Industrial development is still a big part of what we do," Diaz said.

While industries are a large part of the economy, other types of operations, such as technology-based businesses, are becoming more visible in the area.

Diaz is especially pleased with the progress occurring at Allegany Business Center at Frostburg State University.

During his presentation, Diaz told the Rotarians about his department's responsibilities and highlighted some businesses.

Hunter Douglas, Western Maryland Health System and ACS were among major employers mentioned by Diaz.

"ACS is growing in leaps and bounds," said Diaz.

Hamilton Telecommunications, which will operate a hearing-impaired call assistance center, and Sierra Hygiene, a paper product company, are businesses that will be locating in Frostburg, Diaz said.

He also touched on the importance of retail.

"Retail is an area you never hear about, but retail is now a very viable part of our economy," Diaz said.

Friday after Five on the downtown mall has helped businesses, he said.

Diaz said he feels good about the proposed Willowbrook Market Place project.

"It will give us an opportunity to shop locally," said Diaz.

The economic development department has four office employees and one field employee. The department is involved with prospective business development and existing business retention, Diaz told the Rotarians.

"We go out and talk to business folks, find out what their problems are and what we can do to help," Diaz said of the business retention program.

The county also has 1.3 million square feet of building space.

"The big gorilla of the 1.3 million is the former PPG building in Mexico Farms," said Diaz

Diaz is also in the process of prioritizing Appalachian Regional Commission projects.

Jennifer Raley can be reached at jraley@times-news.com.