The Quad Cities ranks in the top 10 for economic growth in the midwest. That's according to Area Development magazine, which judged cities based on employment growth, unemployment rates, and average hourly earnings.
Paul Rumler, President and CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, says investing in manufacturing was key to the area's high ranking.
"As the wave of technology has hit that industry, companies have needed to pivot very quickly. We have a very good base that's been pretty nimble in making those evolutions and investments in those facilities."
The ranking has also exposed areas where the Quad Cities needs improvement. Rumler says that while the chamber continues to invest in manufacturing, it is also looking for ways to expand the workforce.
"We need more people," he said. "That is one of those things that the Quad Cities Chamber has identified as one of our long-term goals is: how do we grow our region's population? Because with that increase in population, you get more workers, more students, and more people who are able to get out there and meet the needs of our area's employers."
Rumler says the Quad Cities Chamber is working with local businesses to protect the economy during the pandemic.
The Quad Cities ranked highest among cities in Iowa, and finished fourth overall in Illinois.
