Transportation is an important element of economic development. Highways, airways, ports and railways all collectively contribute to the transportation issues which shape our nation's economy. It is no longer considered a convenience to have this infrastructure at our disposal, but rather a necessity. The prosperity of any given community can often belinked to its transportation system. This issue takes a look at Charlotte, a transportation hub of the southeast, and the way their infrastructure helps them to gain access to national and global markets.

The U.S. Virgin Islands continues to be touted for its economic development including the tourism industry. The Islands' Economic Development Authority has recently named a new CEO...read all about this new leadership endeavor on page 64 in our area focus on the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Target, one of the nation's largest discount retailers, recently broke ground on the new Target.com fulfillment center in Tucson. It is interesting to read about the reasons behind the site selection process. This issue's community success story on page 68 explains in detail why Target chose Tucson.

Speaking of retail giants, Wal-Mart is working with Novar to include energy-saving processes in their environmentally-friendly store in McKinney, Texas, a first-of-its-kind facility. Novar offers a comprehensive suite of facility management products and services enabling multi-site retailers to save energy, reduce maintenance costs, ensure food safety and provide a safe, comfortable shopping environment. Page 39 is where you can find this story and see specific examples of Novar technology at work.

Expansion Solutions looks forward to a 2008 full of economic prosperity for all communities across this great nation. Please don't forget to visit our web site regularly at www.ExpansionSolutionsMagazine.

Succesfully yours,

Becky J. Beall