Moscow’s economy is dominated by the University of Idaho (“UI”), which – with multiplier effects included – accounts for 53 percent of the City’s jobs and 54 percent of its total earnings. Across the Idaho-Washington border is Washington State University, another key employer for Moscow residents. The two universities provide economic stability, support a solid arts community, and deliver “big-city” cultural amenities to this remote small town. Yet, UI also occupies a large area of tax-exempt land, and its students make up almost half of the City’s population.

The challenge for Moscow is to build upon its strengths in a balanced manner, and forge stronger relationships among the City, the Universities, nearby local governments, and economic development entities. The preferred development program leads with spinning off high-paying “knowledge-based” industries from the universities. However, it also seeks to ensure that there is sufficient physical and regulatory “space” and support for creating, growing, and retaining supporting businesses, shops, and restaurants that support the City’s quality of life. The plan builds upon the comprehensive plan analysis (and feeds back into it), and was developed with input from focus groups and a steering committee of City officials, business leaders, economic development and finance professionals, civic leaders, and university leaders.

The economic development plan includes an analysis of the local and regional economic base; recommendations for zoning reform; an analysis of the retail and non‐retail sectors (including a retail development strategy); an analysis of the industrial sector (including a conceptual plan for a new industrial park); a summary of economic development constraints, opportunities, and alternatives; and a strategic action plan.