‘Mighty Micro’ designation for Peoria? What are they driving at?
I’m sorry, but I cannot take this seriously.
Peoria Economic Development Director Craig Hullinger made note on his blog that Peoria is ranked 16th on Next Generation Consulting’s list of “Mighty Micros.” What does that mean?
“Small but significant, these ‘Mighty Micros’ don’t have all the amenities of the Super Cities, but they more than make up for it in their accessibility and ease of getting around. In these cities, you don’t have to wrestle rush-hour traffic, and you will probably learn the names of your neighbors.”
Seriously. It said that.
No doubt New Yorkers or Chicagoans spend more time on the road commuting than we do here in Peoria. And Hullinger is doing his job in pointing out the positive press for Peoria.
But Peorians have to laugh, considering how the city and utility companies seem to conspire to make it impossible to get from one side of town to the other.
Billy Dennis is a former reporter and editor at small daily and weekly newspapers in Illinois and Missouri. He comments on media, news and politics. He also owns and operates 
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Old news Billy, that’s the “Peoria is one of the top 16 places for young professionals among cities our size” story.
I’ve lived in New York for 16 years and don’t worry about rush hour traffic, because I take the subway or walk. And believe it or not, I know the names of my neighbors! This reminds me of when years ago Mayor Maloof did the “Peoria’s Hot, New York’s Not,” campaign. Embarrassing.
Peoria’s track record is one of losses: population, young people (who must move away to find good jobs — I know 3 young adults with masters degrees, two in physics and engineering, from top schools, who have been unemployed for months) historic properties, now schools including a high school. It can’t seem to develop the Kellar hike and bike trail, and its symphony is run like orchestras in North Korea (my way or the highway).
It is a relatively cheap place to live (with losses like those above, property values will never rise), and it’s close to Chicago and St. Louis. That’s it.
More symbolism over substance. Peoria was a far more influential city during the immediate post-World War Two era when manufacturing was king and everyone in the country knew where those big yellow machines, Ten High Bourbon and Walker’s Deluxe and Red Brand Fencing was made. Now, local officials think they have to resort to gimmicks like bike trails.