CONCLUSION
One expert urban planning architect working in Miami, Florida says in his new book that "communities cannot remain the same, they either grow or face decline." Today's world is forcing every community to continuously re-invent itself. Competition among communities for jobs and related capital investment is fierce.

The Columbus-Lowndes County area can take control of its economic destiny and capitalize on opportunities. It cannot afford to rely on chance. It must have a well-conceived approach; a professional, focused organization and the necessary resources to deploy these strategies. This can only be accomplished with a balanced public/private sector partnership by securing private sector support at least equal to the current support from the public sector.

The Columbus-Lowndes Development LINK believes it has developed an effective program to secure and enhance the area's economic vitality. However, it must have the endorsement and buy-in of the region's stakeholders. Funding for this initiative will be sought from public and private sources - anyone with a vested interest in the local economy's growth and development. Individual investments will be based on each organization's capacity, potential for direct benefit, and community leadership.