park’s offerings, particularly for businesses in the science and technology sectors that have historically been attracted to the area. Northlake Business Park has become a hub for science-based technology businesses, a trend Cassata expects to continue with new developments.“We’ve benefited from the different types of businesses... around the science-based technology industry,” he notes. New buildings cater to the extensive warehousing and distribution demand, making the park highly competitive in the region, including San Antonio and Austin. Its strategic location near major highways places it in direct competition with neighboring areas like Selma and Schertz. POSITIONED FOR BUSINESS GROWTH Universal City’s strategic location is a significant draw for businesses, but the city’s proactive approach to infrastructure and selective use of incentives truly sets it apart. Rather than relying heavily on traditional incentive packages, the city, through its Economic Development Corporation (EDC), focuses on ensuring that businesses have everything they need to hit the ground running. “We have not had to offer too many incentives,” Cassata explains, highlighting that the city’s inherent advantages often speak for themselves. However, the EDC is prepared to invest when the right opportunity arises. “We provide a storefront improvement program, but it’s much more expansive than that,” he says. This program is not just about helping existing businesses spruce up their exteriors; it’s also about making meaningful investments in new companies that can significantly contribute to the local economy. Turner highlights the EDC’s strategic approach, focusing on financial incentives and ensuring that each new business aligns with the city’s growth vision. “They look at each business to make sure they’re bringing in the appropriate type of business,” she explains. A vital role of the EDC is ensuring infrastructure readiness. Recent efforts include refurbishing roads like Universal City Boulevard in the Northlake Business Park and investing $5.3 ENGINEERING, INC. 6S Engineering Inc. Is a Woman Owned, full service Civil Engineering Firm committed to providing our clients with engineering excellence through innovation and sound engineering principles. We provide professional civil engineering consulting services for Municipal (Roadway, Drainage, Water, Sewer, Airport), Commercial, Oil & Gas, & Residential Projects. 12274 Bandera Rd., Suite 248 Helotes, TX 78023 1008 Zanderson Ave. Jourdanton, TX 78026 rachelleswaim@6s-engineering.com (830) 341-2005 (Office) www.6s-engineering.com 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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