*********************************
There is now a CONTENT FREEZE for Mercury while we switch to a new platform. It began on Friday, March 10 at 6pm and will end on Wednesday, March 15 at noon. No new content can be created during this time, but all material in the system as of the beginning of the freeze will be migrated to the new platform, including users and groups. Functionally the new site is identical to the old one. webteam@gatech.edu
*********************************
Charlotte, NC | Posted: August 12, 2009
Mary C. Curtis, Politics Daily
Through the megaregion concept, Atlanta and Charlotte, NC have become allies. The Piedmont Atlantic Megaregion (PAM), which is delineated by Interstates 85 & 20, encompasses these two metropolitan cities. PAM officials congregated to discuss pressing issues in the region, including water, transportation, energy, and economic development.
Reasons for the alliance include competing for federal funding. The meeting, which also included representatives from private and academic entities, discussed research opportunities that would ultimately achieve the long-range goals of the region. Dr. Catherine Ross, transportation expert, director of the Center for Quality Growth and Regional Development at Georgia Tech, and editor of "Megaregions: Planning for Global Competitiveness", was a major driving force of the purpose of the meeting. Dr. Ross alluded to international examples such as Russia and China that are pioneering the megaregion concept.
The meeting also involved topics such as congestion and education. Civic leadership was identified as a key component in helping the region cope with current economic challenges. The next meeting was scheduled for October in South Carolina.
