Evaluation of Employment Impacts Resulting from Lock Modernizations at J.T. Meyers and Greenup Locks and Dams

The purpose of this study was to estimate the regional economic benefits for each of the study sites associated with the lock modernization projects. The study consisted of two distinct analyses. The first segment of the study estimated the National Economic Development (NED) benefits for the qualifying counties within the study area. The criteria and evaluation process set forth in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulation ER 1105-2-100 were followed in determining NED benefits.

The second segment of the study estimated the Regional Economic Development (RED) benefits. An input-output modeling system was used to evaluate total impacts to the local economy. The impact study provided estimates of employment and income effects resulting from the projects. The impacts were measured in terms of estimated production, income, and employment changes in each of the study areas as a result of a shock to the region's economic system. Ripple effects of the initial expenditures on the local economy were also estimated. Ripple effects were reported as indirect and induced effects on income, employment, value added, and total output.