Upstate, SC [May 15, 2017] – Ten at the Top (TATT) is hosting the Shaping Our Future Forum on May 25, 2017, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at BMW Zentrum with a networking reception to follow. The event is part of TATT’s annual Our Upstate Vision Forum Series presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. The series was created to provide an opportunity to discuss issues that are impacting current and future growth in the Upstate region.

    The May 25th forum will look at the results of the Shaping Our Future Analysis, a year-long scenario analysis process being conducted in partnership with The Riley Institute at Furman University, Upstate Forever, and other regional partners. This process was guided by a steering committee representing the business sector, local governments and utilities, and community organizations; a technical advisory committee; several focus groups; and community feedback.

    The 10-county Upstate region is growing. By 2040, our region’s population is projected to reach nearly 1,750,000 – an increase of 64% since 1990. How and where we grow will have real impacts on our quality of life – affecting commute times and transportation choices, air and water quality and our pocket books. The Shaping Our Future Analysis is an opportunity to explore and debate alternative regional visions for growth keeping in mind their associated fiscal, environmental and quality of life trade-offs. Scenario planning tools have been used to evaluate the impacts of competing development scenarios including current growth trends.

    In addition to the unveiling of the results, the forum will include a presentation from the principals of City Explained (Matt Noonkester) and Urban3 (Joe Minicozzi), the two consulting firms that conducted the Shaping Our Future Analysis, and a panel discussion of Upstate leaders who are among those involved in the decision-making of land-use within our region. After the conclusion of the forum, there will be a networking reception to follow in the lobby area of the newly renovated BMW Zentrum. Cost to attend is $10 per person and advance registration is required.

    The Shaping Our Future Analysis was made possible thanks to the generosity of Hollingsworth Funds, Greater Greenville Association of Realtors, Ten at the Top, The Riley Institute at Furman University, Upstate Forever, and Belgium Brewery. Supporting Sponsors for the Shaping Our Future Forum include TD Bank, Trehel Corporation and Colliers International. Supporting Sponsors of the Our Upstate Vision Forum Series include GSP International Airport, Fluor, WGTK-FM 94.5 The Answer, and GSA Business Report.

    To register or to find out more information, please visit. www.tenatthetop.org.

    About Ten at the Top
    Comprised of public, private and civic leaders across the ten-county Upstate South Carolina Region, Ten at the Top was created to build regional trust and consensus through data-driven research and regular convening of leaders and citizens to address key issues facing the region. Ten at the Top works with regional partners to encourage quality growth and enhance the economic vitality, natural and cultural resources and quality of life for Upstate residents both today and as the region continues to grow. www.tenatthetop.org.

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