'Great opportunities' available for Sudbury's economy

David Robinson, Laurentian University economics professor spoke at a Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce luncheon at Ristorante Verdicchio Dec. 7. File photo.

Professor presents yearly economic prognostication

By: Martha Dillman - Sudbury Northern Life

Greater Sudbury's economy has some “pretty clear sailing” ahead in 2011, especially if citizens seize some of the “great opportunities” out there, according to Laurentian University economics professor David Robinson.

“The real question for 2011 is whether we will successfully seize those opportunities,” he said.

Robinson delivered his annual predictions about the city's economy at the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce's Outlook 2011 luncheon Dec. 7.

According to Robinson, potential boons for the city's economy are related to mining, in particular to the Ring of Fire chromite development in the James Bay region.

He said to fully benefit from the economic spinoffs related to servicing the Ring of Fire development, changes to the current rail and airport systems need to happen.

Robinson proposed moving the rail lines out of the downtown area, and relocating them in the Chelmsford area. He also said the current airport is standing in the way of economic development due to its remote location.

Greater Sudbury Mayor Marianne Matichuck said the idea of moving the rail line isn't new, but added she needs more information before considering the idea.

“I know there's some really good ideas out there,” she said. “I think it's important that we look at these opportunities and look at these ideas.”