The thinking behind the work
Essays from our Present Value blog, news from the firm, and our analysts in the press.
Leveraging Value Capture to Support Housing Development
States and localities across the country often face a difficult conundrum – a growing need for housing and limited subsidy sources to…
Why Innovation Districts are Investing in Quality of Place, Not Just Real Estate
The intersection of innovation and arts and culture is a hot topic today, but it isn’t a new idea. In the 15th…
C-PACE as an Innovative Funding Structure
Unlocking Capital Dollars for Building Enhancements and Infrastructure Improvements Across the country, commercial buildings account for one-fifth of the nation’s primary energy…
How Public Investment Advances Innovation
Universities as a Producer of Value In most regions that have one, a research university ranks among the largest economic engines around.…
The Long Road to Philadelphia’s Tourism Moment
In the coming weeks, Philadelphia will host the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the formal…
When Universities Merge, What Happens to the Other Campus?
When two universities merge, the press release typically celebrates a new chapter, a stronger institution, and a brighter future. What it rarely…
Research Institutions as Workforce Development Accelerators
In recent years, colleges and universities have been facing pushback against the funding they receive for research endeavors, and more broadly, the…
Takeaways from 20 Years of Economic Analysis for Higher Ed
You can’t tell the story of Philadelphia’s modern economy without mentioning its higher education institutions. Just like I can’t explain my own…
Outdoor Recreation, Economic Value, and Quality of Place: A Conversation with Silas Chamberlin
At ESI, some of our recent work has focused on quantifying the economic and fiscal value of open space, trails, and outdoor…
More than Recreation: Parks as Community Development Drivers
Who doesn’t love spending a sunny Saturday at their neighborhood park? We all know and love our local parks as places to…
Beyond Jurisdiction Lines: How City-County Partnerships Are Reshaping Planning
Across the country, cities and counties are rethinking how they work together to address growth, infrastructure, and economic development. Challenges such as…
Housing Affordability as an Economic Development Catalyst
The Connection Between Housing Affordability and Economic Development Housing affordability has become an increasingly prominent concern for local and state policymakers in…
The evidence, in your inbox
A short monthly note: new Present Value essays, selected reports, and where our analysts are in the press. Unsubscribe anytime.