Business View Civil & Municipal Apr-2023

150 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 4 community, and it’s a community that pulls together, and I think that is attractive.” This resilience and determination have become a defining characteristic of Andover, making it a place for people to want to establish roots. As McCausland points out, “I think when people see that, and they see how quickly the homes have been rebuilt, I think what they see is a place they want to be a part of and some strength.” Despite the significant damage caused by the recent tornado in Andover, the city has addressed the infrastructure challenges necessary to accommodate the incoming business development, McCausland shares that the tornado had a relatively narrow path, primarily impacting 187 homes. Nevertheless, the city and its partners have worked hard to repair and reopen public facilities like the YMCA and a grade school. One challenge the city faces is the loss of over a thousand trees in Central Park, a popular gathering place for residents. McCausland explains the city’s initial response, “We have replaced nearly 50 of the trees we’ve transplanted from our other large park in the community.” “We said, ‘let’s move those trees to Central Park and start to rebuild some of the shade, some of the natural environment.’” This action highlights Andover’s resourcefulness and commitment to recovery.” Regarding the city’s appeal as an education destination, Mayor Ronnie Price further explains the unique situation of the Andover school district, which sees a large number of students attending outside the city’s residential base. He emphasizes the importance of making these families feel at home in Andover, even if they live just across the county line, by promoting community and encouraging them to spend time and money in the city. With ongoing projects like Heritage Square and the Red Bud Trail, the city is working to create more attractions and family entertainment options. Premier attorneys for economic development TWGfirm.com | 316-630-8100 TWG attorneys bring vast experience and strengthen economic development by advising local government and industry on the tools and incentives available to construct new infrastructure, and grow the local economy.