ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 26, 2007) - - -  One hundred and ten relocation experts, commercial real estate professionals, and business executives representing retail, banking and the hospitality industry participated today in the 15th Annual VIP Real Estate Tour of Anne Arundel County.

 

The day-long tour aboard two buses highlighted major successes over the past year and opportunities for the future.  Tour highlights included existing and new development around Fort George G. Meade, National Business Park, Parole Town Center, Arundel Preserve, and Anne Arundel County’s major hotel district in and around Airport Square. Guest narrators on two busses provide information on economic trends, transportation infrastructure, and targeted growth areas. 

 

“The VIP Tour provides an outstanding venue for witnessing the strength of Anne Arundel County’s economy through current business growth and potential, future growth,” said County Executive Leopold.  “I congratulate Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation on the 15th anniversary of this important event.”

 

At the breakfast prior to departure, Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold gave an overview of the Anne Arundel County business economy.  John Porcari, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation, gave a brief update on transportation initiatives in Anne Arundel County.  Jerry Wit and Rick Williamson of St. John Properties gave an update on Arundel Overlook Business Park.

 

During lunch, Annapolis Mayor Ellen Moyer talked about the Annapolis business economy.  Steve Muller of Union Realty gave an update on 1901 West.  Greg Masi, Vice President of Manekin Corporation, was given a special award for his volunteer service to the VIP Tour since it began 15 years ago. 

 

Robert Hannon, President and CEO of the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC), said, “The VIP Real Estate Tour puts us in contact with those professionals who can help us attract quality business investment to Anne Arundel County.  I thank the many individuals and our sponsors who have made this event possible.”

 

VIP Tour sponsors for this year include The City of Annapolis, The Arbors at Arundel Preserve, Corporate Office Properties Trust, Cushman and Wakefield, Gardiner Realty and Development Company, Greenberg Gibbons Commercial Corporation, Heffner and Weber, Konterra Realty, Manekin Construction, LLC, St. John Properties, Union Realty Partners, and Wood Partners.

 

Since its inception in 1992, over 1,600 professionals have participated in the VIP Tour, organized on behalf of Anne Arundel County by the AAEDC.  The AAEDC mission is to serve business needs and increase the county’s economic base through job growth and investment.  For more information, visit our web site at www.aaedc.org.