Bartlett unveils ambitious plan to capitalize on its growing technology industries (new home, contractors)

[Johnny Ryall]

The Commercial Appeal
By Toby Sells

$2 billion in new capital investments. 50,000 new jobs. $2.5 billion in total income. 30 percent population growth. 10 years. These are the numbers driving Bartlett's new economic development plan: "Vision 20/20." The Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce introduced the push to local business leaders last week. It is expected to give ammunition to the chamber to help draw the eyes of business executives looking to start a business in the Bartlett area or move or consolidate their current operations there.

By the numbers: Bartlett unveils ambitious plan to capitalize on its growing technology industries » The Commercial Appeal

Photos by Michael McMullan/ The Commercial Appeal

Joseph M. DeVivo, president of Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics, in front of the company's new corporate headquarters on Goodlett Farms Parkway which it hopes to move into in early 2011.


David Drewery and Hector Perez install a Smith & Nephew sign at the entrance to the company's new corporate headquarters on Goodlett Farms Parkway. The two work for Williams Sign Company.


Lush landscaped gardens surround the future corporate headquarters of Smith & Nephew on Goodlett Farms Road, left from when the land was home to Harrah's corporate offices.


Michael McMullan / The Commercial Appeal
Cedric Wallace chisels tile inside the former Harrah's corporate headquarters where workers were busy transforming it into the new home of Smith & Nephew on Goodlett Farms Parkway. Wallace was working for GrinderTaber Grinder contractors.