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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
Utah is catching everyone's attention, and we have been for some time. We are on the move. We have it in spades for attracting and retaining businesses because of Utah's stability, good government, balanced budget and talented workforce.
Salt Lake City was recently named as one of the 15 best cities in the world to do business. It's one of only two in the United States to be chosen. This ranking is based on everything from job creation to overall economic climate. Utah businesses have created positive job growth for almost two years in a row.
The U.S Chamber of Commerce recently ranked the Beehive State third overall for innovation and entrepreneurship. Utah is one of only 9 states to maintain a AAA bond rating. We also have the most dynamic economy and are the most fiscally fit state in the United States. For two years running Forbes Magazine has named Utah as the Best State for business. They've also called Salt Lake City the best commuter city in the nation. And with Utah's forward thinking approach to transportation, including 70 miles of rail in the next 7 years, it's no wonder why.
Utah is also currently home to over 6,000 technology companies. They employ around 140,000 people and pay salaries significantly higher than the statewide average. This is building Utah's reputation as a technology hot spot.
Downtown Rising is a $5 billion capital city project — the largest in the United States. City Creek Center is now open, and Salt Lake City will bring 10,000 new residents into downtown over the next five years. The brand new two-level Harmons grocery store, complete with a dining area, opened their doors, adding another level to our urban development.
Utah has become a global state. If you'd like to find out more about how to build your company's global presence, you can attend the eleventh annual Zions Bank Trade and Business Conference on May 23. For more information or to register, visit www.zionsbank.com/conference.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
