The City of Ann Arbor is focusing additional efforts on economic development, having hired its first economic development director, Joe Giant.

Giant came to Ann Arbor last March, after serving as community development administrator for the department of redevelopment in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He is experienced in acquiring and assembling strategic real estate, managing TIF districts and financing for complex deal structures. Giant previously worked as a city planner in both Fort Wayne and in Minneapolis. He earned a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Miami University.

In this new economic development director role, Giant will work to advance collaborations, form partnerships and attract investments that promote industry and commerce streams. These opportunities will help to solidify the city’s position as a premier destination that proactively supports growth, new opportunities and quality of life for its residents.

“Joe brings an extensive track record of success and a collaborative spirit that will mesh well with our team,” said Ann Arbor City Administrator Milton Dohoney Jr.

During his tenure in Fort Wayne, Giant led public-private initiatives including creation of mixed-use developments — the $300 million Treeline District (Pepsi Warehouse redevelopment); the Riverfront at Promenade Park, an $88 million project; the $95 million project Lofts at Headwaters Park; the Electric Works Phase II ($125 million) — development of a new $200 million Amazon Robotic Sortation Center fulfillment facility as well as an affordable housing/clinic/daycare complex, Village Premier, and redevelopment of a 30-acre site into the North River Activity Center and fieldhouse.

Dohoney added, “Joe is passionate about Ann Arbor and will help us to expand our vision for development.”

Here’s a link to the web page for the City’s Department of Economic Development: https://www.a2gov.org/economic-development/