Jobs and Economic Development
All analyses of the Continental 1 trade corridor point to significant job growth and economic impact on communities lining Rt. 219. The 2009 Regional Economic Impact Study prepared by the University of Pittsburgh-Bradford estimates that over $200 million will be added to the Gross Regional Product in NY and PA through the completion of Rt. 219, with Cattaraugus, Erie, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson and McKean counties as the greatest beneficiaries.
In addition, approximately 2,892 new jobs will result from the capital outlay for Rt. 219 in those counties. Other factors that have the potential to dramatically increase the permanent job numbers in those counties are the growth of the Marcellus Shale natural gas industry, the strengthening trade relationship with Ontario, and the expansion of the Panama Canal.