The Billings Chamber/CVB is an organization that directs its strengths toward the positive health and promotion of the Billings’ community. These 2011 strategic priority issues will become the focus of thousands of employee hours during the Billings Chamber/CVB's Fiscal Year. The organization has pride in its membership and the community.  The Billings Chamber/CVB Board and staff believe working hard to provide opportunities to live, work and play is crucial to the future of Billings:  Montana's Trailhead.


The 2011-2012 Strategic Priorities are:
Energy Development Hub
Bring it to Billings
Trails (Swords Park)
Community Gateway Development
The Bottom Line

Specific Details:
Energy Development Hub
Southeastern Montana has seen a marked increase in energy resource development in recent years and Billings is in a position to become a national energy hub. Coal from the existing Cloud Peak Energy coal mines is being shipped in great quantity through Billings, with the bulk of it going to the west coast for shipment to China. The Bakken Formation brings a lateral drilling/fracking process to get more oil out of a previously developed oil field. Natural gas development, while slow to grow, is also being developed as a byproduct of coal. Colstrip units burn Montana coal and generate electricity that is consumed by many Montana companies and individuals as well as exported to other states. All of these industries rely on Billings’ vendors to supply a variety of products and services. The Chamber/CVB will work with local, state and federal partners, together with the membership, to develop strategies that will further position Billings as a destination of choice for energy companies, their suppliers and their employees. This priority will be accomplished in partnership with Big Sky Economic Development (BSED).

Bring it to Billings
The Billings Chamber/CVB will work to increase non-resident conventions and events in Billings by working with local representatives of services groups and organizations. Local representatives can open the door for the Chamber/CVB staff to “Bring it to Billings.” Recognizing travel as a vital segment of the Billings economy, we will continue to use a comprehensive local awareness campaign to book business and create an understanding of the value of travel to Billings. Individuals who assist in recruiting groups will be recognized and local clubs/groups will be assisted.

Trails (Swords Park)
Develop the Billings’ trail system for the economic and healthy community benefits that result from active transportation (to work and school and for leisure). The Board, staff and Trails Committee members will help communicate the quality of life and economic benefits of trails. Federal support through transportation and appropriations bills for trail expansion and maintenance will be sought. In 2011-2012, emphasis will be placed on Swords Park and the Yellowstone River Connector.

Community Gateway Development
Partnering with Big Sky Economic Development, the Chamber/CVB will aid in the development of needed infrastructure and business opportunities within the east end transition zone, west of MetraPark. The goal will be to develop a community entryway and active business district along Exposition Drive making this area a vibrant destination and visually attractive area. Other partners include the City, County and Downtown Billings Authority. The focus will be to develop a sense of arrival through perimeter enhancements including gateway signage. Connecting this area via trails from Swords Park to the Yellowstone River is also a key component.

The Bottom Line
We will continue looking for new ways to assist and support our members and communicate how the Chamber/CVB impacts their bottom line. Staff will focus on the promotion of members and the tangible values of membership. The Chamber/CVB is the gateway for doing business, successfully, in Billings. Benefits act as a catalyst for growth, advocacy and connection for local businesses.