A topic on many people’s minds in the City of Perry is the proposed expansion of Progressive Foundry, which would result in the closure of a block of 2nd Street downtown. With many opinions being voiced from multiple directions, one entity with a great deal of clout in the City recently stated their support of the project.

Perry Economic Development, Incorporated (PEDI) sent a letter to the City staff, which was shared with the public, where they gave several reasons in favor of the expansion. PEDI President Deb Lucht says some of the perks of allowing one of the oldest and most successful businesses in Perry expand their operations include: job creation; supporting businesses that support the community; and increased safety in the area. She also says the project should provide considerable financial benefits for the City. “From the economic development perspective, it’s an opportunity where we want to support this company and their growth. And what that means to the community, from expanding the housing base, the employment base, the tax base. All of those positive things that it has on the community besides just them growing their business.”

Lucht adds, in addition to all those growths, the City’s economy is also likely to be positively impacted, by virtue of more people shopping at the grocery stores or local shops and restaurants. The Perry Planning and Zoning Commission recently gave their blessing to the proposed expansion, and now it will come before the City Council for final approval. There are three public hearings scheduled to take place at the Council meeting on August 19th, and residents are encouraged to provide their input during that forum.

To hear more from Lucht about PEDI’s support of the Progressive Foundry expansion, listen to today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program on air and at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.