While some challenges remain, one expert believes there have been many positive economic developments for the Niagara Falls area.
A few dozen members of the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce received an update Tuesday on the local economy from M&T Regional Economist Gary Keith. During a panel discussion at Niagara University, Keith said outside of manufacturing the county has performed fairly well, thanks in part to Niagara Falls.
"We are making progress in terms of looking at our tourism assets. Making them a factor in our future," Keith told the gathering.
"We're growing that much better than the rest of the country, obviously with having those assets that they would love to have. And, I think again, this is a big part of our future. Developing your assets. Working with what you have."
Keith says outside of manufacturing there's been a seven percent increase in private sector employment in Niagara County which he says tops the U.S. average. The economist says the challenge going forward is growing the labor pool.