Chamber News

Welcome New Members

• Allstate - The Kennett Square Agency 
• CJC Executive Coaching LLC
• WSI World

This Month's Member Discounts

The Holidays are right around the corner!

Del Vacchio Landscapes & Christmas Decor is ready to provide hassle-free holiday decorating by offering CCCBI Members an exclusive discount. 

$100 off Residential Christmas Packages 

&

$250 off Commercial Christmas Packages

Offer ends October 31st, so call today!

Let's schedule YOUR  30 minute complimentary strategy session with Executive Leadership Coach, Ana Welsh!

Whether you’re a business owner or emerging professional, this is a great opportunity to build a strategy that can develop leaders and a strong culture. 

Support your career growth and find a time with Ana today!

For a limited time IT Edge is offering CCCBI members a 20% discount on new website builds!

With over 400+active clients, 150+ five star reviews and 30+years of proven success, IT Edge are your local experts for modern technology. 

This exclusive offer is active NOW through October 31st, so call or email to build your website!

Denney Electric Supply is having a Lighting Showroom Sale!

CCCBI Members are able to use a 20% off coupon at their Kennett Square showroom until 12/31/24.

Don’t be the last to make your home smart. 

 Whether you need a partner supplier or you are working on making your house a home, Denney Electric Supply is the place to shop.  

Community Feedback Survey from the Kennett Library

Are You an Immigrant Living in Chester County? Do you want to improve your English skills? Are you looking to start or grow your business? Having trouble finding a job that matches your qualifications? Do you hold a degree from your home country but find it difficult to use here? 

The Welcoming Center is partnering with local organizations in Chester County to provide programs and services that support immigrants in making economic progress. We want to learn more about the needs of immigrants in Chester County and how we can help you succeed! Please take a moment to fill out the form below and share your needs with us.

Guest Columnist

The Future of Transportation in Chester County: Addressing Our Growing Needs

By P. Timothy Phelps, IOM

Transportation is the cornerstone of Chester County’s growth, connecting commuters, businesses, and communities. Whether it’s getting to work, transporting goods and services, accessing healthcare, enjoying recreational activities, or navigating our shopping and shipping demands, a well-functioning transportation system is critical. Chester County’s evolving population and economy demand thoughtful investment in infrastructure that supports mobility, sustainability, and economic vitality.

SEPTA Transit Funding
SEPTA’s regional rail and bus services are a lifeline for Chester County residents, providing reliable and affordable transportation for thousands of daily commuters. However, as the system faces increased demand and rising operational costs, securing long-term funding for SEPTA is essential. Investments in SEPTA’s infrastructure and service expansion will help alleviate road congestion, reduce emissions, and ensure access to employment hubs both in and outside the county. Without this critical support, Chester County’s economic competitiveness and quality of life could be compromised. Case for Investment

The Chester County Public Transportation Plan
Produced by the Chester County Planning Commission, the recently drafted Chester County Public Transportation Plan offers a vision for improved public transportation across the county. The plan focuses on expanding bus routes, increasing frequency, and ensuring access to underserved communities. It prioritizes enhancing connections between residential areas, employment centers, and educational institutions. By embracing this forward-thinking plan, Chester County can offer more equitable and sustainable transit options, while reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Public Transportation Plan

Chester County Trails Master Plan
Chester County’s vast network of trails is not only a recreational asset but also an important piece of its transportation framework. The Chester County Planning Commission’s Trails Master Plan aims to expand this network, including the westward extension of the Chester Valley Trail (CVT) through Atglen. This expansion will provide a safe, green transportation alternative for residents and visitors, while promoting healthy living and reducing traffic congestion. The trail system also supports tourism and local business growth, enhancing the region’s economic resilience. Trails Master Plan

Investment in Route 30 Bypass
The Route 30 Bypass is a critical artery for Chester County’s economy, carrying high volumes of commuter and freight traffic daily. However, congestion and safety issues have long plagued this corridor. Investment in widening the bypass, improving interchanges, and enhancing safety measures will not only improve traffic flow but also boost economic development in surrounding areas. These improvements are crucial to ensuring that Chester County remains a hub for commerce and growth. US Route 30 Reconstruction Program

Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority
The Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority (SRPRA) initiative, which aims to restore passenger rail service between Reading and Philadelphia, holds great promise for Chester County. This service would pass through key areas in the county, providing residents with a sustainable and efficient alternative to driving, particularly for those commuting into Philadelphia. With growing traffic congestion and environmental concerns, projects like the SRPRA are essential for building a more connected, sustainable future. SRPRA

As Chester County continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that transportation will play an ever-greater role in shaping our future. Whether it's securing funding for SEPTA, implementing the Chester County Transit and Trails Plans, or making critical investments in the Route 30 Bypass and SRPRA, these initiatives are vital for maintaining and improving the quality of life in our region. It is now more important than ever to support these transportation projects to ensure Chester County’s continued growth, connectivity, and prosperity.

Let’s commit to building a transportation system that meets the needs of today while preparing for the demands of tomorrow.

P. Timothy Phelps, IOM

 is the Executive Director of the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), which serves as liaison between public sector transportation agencies and the private sector on transportation issues affecting the Chester County business community. 

Legislative Update

Port Strike Could Impact Local Supply Chain and Further Damage Already Struggling Economy

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) have gone on strike starting October 1st on East Coast Gulf Coast ports. The ILA is asking for protections from automation and increased compensation for their members. On the other side is the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX), an alliance of companies that have offered increased wages, but not concessions on automation.

In between these two factions are thousands, if not millions, of products entering and leaving the United States. With the Delaware River being a major port, even a short delay of these products going to their intended destination could lead to a supply chain disruption detrimental to regional businesses and consumers.

According to the US Chamber of Commerce, the ports that have been shut down typically handle more than 68% of all containerized exports and 56% of imports for the nation, with a daily trade value exceeding $2.1 billion.  The National Retail Federation recently noted that economists believe a similar disruption in 2002 cost the economy $1 billion per day and leading to a six month recovery period for the economy.

A similar situation to 2002’s strike will worsen our current economy, which is struggling with inflation. The fear of this type of impact has led to a call for both sides to resume negotiations immediately. The US Chamber has gone so far as to request that the Biden Administration invoke the Taft-Hartley Act in an effort to end the work stoppage at the 14 ports currently shut down.

Until negotiations are able to yield a settlement, CCCBI will continue to monitor the port closures, supply chain disruptions and the relevant impacts on our local economy.

Member Spotlight

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