Participants have a strong sense that change is afoot in the Windsor-Essex region. While participant responses
tended to suggest a sense of optimism about this change, it is clear that the region’s history of dynamic economic
cycles continues to shape a degree of uncertainty about the challenges we face. At the time of these
consultations, therewas also uncertainty regarding the implications of changes in theAmerican political context for
our region: inevitably these implications may be felt more strongly in communities close to the border. Some
emphasized the potential of re-purposing existing industrial infrastructure, for example through more specialty
manufacturing or for the film industry. A number of respondents also wondered howWindsor might take better
advantage of global interest in urban revitalization inDetroit. Therewas considerable interest in research that would
identify strategies and approaches successfully used in urban revitalization in comparable cities. Participants
viewed the University as an important lever in changing perceptions and realities of the city, and strongly valued
existing collaboration between the city and the University, encouraging greater integration in research, education,
and service.
Participants also encouraged the University to explore potential opportunities and needs in the county and region,
not just in the city itself. The region’s potential as a tourism and hospitality destination, as well as agri-business,
were identified as key areas for potential growth. Across numerous consultations, participants identified the
importance of arts, culture, and culinary activities to urban revitalization.
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