WCA and Westchester County Launch Westchester Economic Alliance to Help Guide Long-Term Growth

In its first phase, the Alliance will focus on building a common understanding of Westchester’s economic composition and the key sectors that drive the local economy.

WCA and Westchester County Launch Westchester Economic Alliance to Help Guide Long-Term Growth
From left, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and Westchester County Association President Michael Romita

PELHAM, NY—The Westchester County Association recently announced the formation of the Westchester Economic Alliance, a new, joint countywide economic development initiative launched in partnership with Westchester County government.

The Alliance will bring together business, government, higher education, and civic leaders around a shared approach to strengthening the county’s long-term economic competitiveness. The announcement was made at the WCA’s Annual Business Breakfast on Jan. 22 at the New York Athletic Club–Travers Island here.

“Westchester is operating in a faster, more competitive, and more complex economic environment,” said Michael N. Romita, President and CEO of the WCA. “In partnership with county government, we will focus on where we are today and where we are headed. Blueprint ’26 is the first step—looking at where we stand, where we have real competitive advantage, and establishing a foundation for decisions that shape long-term growth.”

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, “A strong economy doesn’t happen by accident. This initiative brings together the data, the expertise, and the partnerships needed to make informed decisions about Westchester’s future. Working with the WCA and leaders across sectors, we’re focused on positioning the county to compete, innovate, and succeed.”

In its first phase, the Alliance will focus on building a common understanding of Westchester’s economic composition and the key sectors that drive the local economy. Through research, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis, Blueprint ’26 will:

  • Clarify Westchester’s competitive position and core economic strengths.
  • Identify priority industries tied to the county’s workforce, infrastructure, and assets.
  • Explore the implications of targeted investment—and the risks of inaction
  • Inform future planning, policy discussions, and public- and private-sector investment decisions.

In the coming weeks, the WCA will convene a cross-sector steering committee, chaired by WCA Board Chair Chris Fisher and County. Director of Operations Joan McDonald, and drawing from its board, members, and regional partners. Representing business, government, higher education, and civic leadership, the committee will guide the Blueprint ’26 process and help ensure the report reflects real market conditions and countywide priorities. Ms. McDonald will begin serving as Deputy County Executive at the end of this month.

As part of the launch, the WCA also announced Blueprint ’26, a data-driven process that will culminate in the Alliance’s first major deliverable. The report will establish a clear baseline on Westchester’s economic position and help inform the direction of future strategy and implementation.

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Real Estate In-Depth

Real Estate In-Depth is the official publication of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors.

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