THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT  
              Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Monday, June 3, 1996                  TAG: 9606010130
SECTION: BUSINESS WEEKLY         PAGE: 03   EDITION: FINAL 
SOURCE: BUSINESS WEEKLY 
                                            LENGTH:   25 lines

REPORT SAYS WILLIAMSBURG SHOULD FOCUS ON GROWTH

Williamsburg should focus on current businesses, growth industries and a community partnership, says an economic development study by researchers at the College of William and Mary.

The report recommended the city strengthen existing businesses, preserve Williamsburg's charm, and focus redevelopment efforts on its growth industries of tourism, education and health care.

The report also recommends the city organize economic development strategies with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and William and Mary.

Attracting outside industries to Williamsburg should be a secondary issue, according to the report. The city's available developable land is largely limited to 118 acres owned by Colonial Williamsburg.

``Should the city and CW decide to develop this land in the future, the city should handpick the organization to occupy the space in order to get the most beneficial use of the land, to provide a fit with Williamsburg's natural assets, and to preserve the character of the city,'' the report said.

KEYWORDS: STUDY REPORT WILLIAMSBURG by CNB