The Public Works Podcast: Eric Johnson Episode

Episode Title:"Phoenix Rising: Infrastructure & Economic Development Strategies Supporting Responsible Growth"Episode Summary: Join host Shane Silsby for an in-depth conversation with Eric Johnson, Assistant Director of the Community & Economic Development Department at the City of Phoenix. Discover how infrastructure planning, interdepartmental coordination, and strategic vision drive economic opportunity in one of America's fastest-growing cities.In this episode, we explore:✅ The critical role of water, transportation, and utilities in attracting major investments✅ How Phoenix facilitated a $165 billion semiconductor project✅ Downtown revitalization and the infrastructure behind major developments✅ The partnership between economic development and public works departments✅ Phoenix's innovative water planning that supports continued growthTimestamps: 0:00 - Introduction & Episode Overview1:31 - Welcome & Guest Introduction3:02 - Eric's Journey: From Chicago to Phoenix Leadership7:26 - Downtown Phoenix Development & 3D Model Tour12:07 - When Infrastructure Became Critical to Economic Development16:42 - What Economic Development Really Means20:30 - Infrastructure's Role in Attracting Business25:46 - TSMC Project: Greenfield Development Case Study27:42 - Downtown Infrastructure: Upgrading for Vertical Growth32:05 - Top 5 Factors Companies Consider42:30 - Proactive Planning & State Land Partnerships48:27 - Internal Collaboration Between City Departments52:16 - Advice for Public Works Leaders57:33 - Future Challenges: Energy & Water1:03:24 - Career Advice for Aspiring Public Sector Leaders1:05:50 - Phoenix's Water Planning Success Story1:12:33 - Closing Thoughts & Call to ActionNext Steps: 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Public Works Podcast for more conversations about infrastructure, policy, and the people shaping our communities! 👍 LIKE this video if you found these insights valuable💬 COMMENT below: What infrastructure challenges is your city facing?🔗 CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.thepublicworkspodcast.com / LinkedIn: Follow "The Public Works Podcast"Share this episode with colleagues in economic development, infrastructure policy, and public works! #PublicWorks #EconomicDevelopment #Infrastructure #CityPlanning #Phoenix #UrbanDevelopment #WaterPlanning #TSMC #TPWP #ThePublicWorksPodcast #localgovernments #innovation