HARLINGEN — Economic development in the Rio Grande Valley and the role of retail in that effort is the subject of a Harlingen conference Thursday.
The Rio South Texas Economic Council and the International Council of Shopping Centers are sponsoring the forum at the University Center at Texas State Technical College-Harlingen, 2424 Boxwood.
The main events of the 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. forum will be a regional leaders’ panel followed by a local retail panel.
Panelists at the conference will cover the expansion of commercial businesses over the past 10 years in the RGV, including Simon’s Palms Crossing, Rio Grande Premium Outlets, Bass Pro Shops, Space X and most recently the Texas LNG project, event organizers say.
This program will showcase the strengths and weaknesses of the Rio Grande Valley when it comes to economic development and growth of the retail sector, organizers say.
Those interested in attending still may register on-site for the forum beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday. Cost is $40 for an ICSC member, $55 for a non-member, and $15 for an ICSC student member.
