Restore regional job centers

The urban revival that has led to an economic resurgence in New York City has bypassed many of our smaller cities. These centers—places like Paterson, Poughkeepsie, and Bridgeport—have continued to struggle in the post-industrial era to build and attract businesses, and achieve the prosperity that comes with them. But these older job centers are positioned to once again become significant providers of employment and homes for local residents, and help generate an era of sustainable economic growth in the region. States and regional authorities should focus resources in these cities and reform programs that inhibit private investment. Local leadership should implement comprehensive economic-development strategies to ensure existing residents benefit from job growth and new development.