Gdynia : technical assistance in strategic/economic development planning -- Poland

The team observed that Gdynia, which is part of a tri-city region that includes Gdansk and Sopot, has several strong attributes but faces restructuring of its maritime and state-owned industries, which will bring significant economic dislocation. Strategic planning for economic development in Gdynia has already begun through two working groups, which include city staff, elected officials, and local consultants. The ICMA consultants have reviewed written materials and held several meetings with staff, local consultants, and various public and private individuals representing different points of view on economic development. A half-day workshop, attended by a cross-section of the city and business leadership, was organized as an interactive session to identify some common economic and business objectives for the city. Mindful of the city"s goals to assist the shift to a market economy, diversify local economy, and to build a presence as a regional hub for international trade, the following issues were addressed: the state of the port; the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized land; the status of the planned world trade center; a possible business retention and attraction program to include working with business organizations on management and financing needs; the potential for more intensive use of the waterfront; and strengthened tourism. The process by which strategic and economic planning is being undertaken was analyzed. The report includes a description of the important work ahead for the city in a number of areas, and suggests opportunities for further technical assistance. (Author abstract)