Jane L. Morris, A.A.E.
Phoenix is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, and it is coming back strong after taking a bad hit in the wake of the housing collapse five years ago. The Valley is diversifying its economy and creating multiple centers as economic engines.
At Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority, we’re working strategically to keep this “economic engine” running strong and on improving the community benefits of a growing commercial airport. The Airport’s last annual economic impact study showed greater than $1.3 billion in total economic impact. Gateway is in the top 100 airports measured by total passengers served and we are second in Arizona with the most nonstop destinations served (36 via Allegiant Air). The Airport Authority Board of Directors consists of members from five municipalities and one Indian tribe. This creates a significant partnership that provides for a long-term commitment to the protection of this East Valley asset.
Gateway is one part of this issue’s cover story, “Building & Development: Reinvigorating Our Cities.” Writer Kristian Seemeyer identifies other key Valley areas as well where growth is planned or expected, and examines what is being done to develop these hubs and how they will drive our economy going forward. Other people she spoke with are some of our city planners, developers of some of the significant projects, and leaders of regional and statewide economic development organizations to present this view of what reinvigorating our economy means to business.
Another aspect of development is explored in this issue’s “Sector” article on architecture. Alison Stanton focuses on significant projects of new construction and adaptive reuse that shape the business environment in their neighborhood.
The “Communicate” feature looks at collaboration — some of the challenges and how to make sure it works in a positive way. “Legal” deals with employer issues around substance abuse in the workplace.
Taking a new approach to its “Nonprofit” column by debuting in this May issue a collaboration with respected consultant company The Phoenix Philanthropy Group, In Business Magazine deals with the business side of running a nonprofit organization. This first of the monthly articles examines the importance and impact of the relationship between the top executive officer and the chairman of the board of nonprofit organizations.
And this issue of In Business Magazine presents a special section on commercial real estate: “Commercial Real Estate Leaders and Leading Properties”.
In Business Magazine continues to be a well-rounded resource for the broad spectrum of our business community. I’m pleased to welcome you to this May issue.
Sincerely,
Jane L. Morris, A.A.E.
Executive Director
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority
As Executive Director at Gateway Airport, Jane Morris oversees more than 100 employees that manage an operation with an economic impact in the community of more than $1.3 billion. Additionally, the Authority currently manages the predevelopment activity to construct a new terminal complex on the opposite side of the airfield.
Morris has focused on the development and operation of a broad spectrum of municipal-owned facilities and services. During her 28 years with the City of Phoenix, she was in leadership roles with a number of significant programs and services, including the development of a new municipal office complex, numerous cultural facilities and the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Sky Train.
