Community and business leaders came together at Bayside Church on Wednesday for the Future Folsom event, hosted by Choose Folsom. Against a backdrop of optimism and standing before an audience of area residents, business owners, and media representatives, regional officials discussed challenges, successes, and ongoing collaborations driving growth along the Highway 50 corridor.
The morning began with breakfast and networking, setting a lively tone as leaders from Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, Folsom, and El Dorado County gathered to share updates on current developments, future growth forecasts, and the pros, cons, and challenges of expansion. The event, led by David Lichtman, publisher of the Sacramento Business Journal, provided a detailed overview of economic trends in the region, with a focus on healthcare, technology, and residential development.
Lichtman’s keynote offered a nuanced view of economic progress and obstacles. He began by noting that while inflation has eased from its earlier peak, housing costs remain a significant issue.
“Our housing costs are going up 5.2%—part of that is due to a lack of supply,” Lichtman said.
Workforce Challenges Persist
Though employment is up, the region faces workforce shortages in key industries. Despite strong job growth, labor gaps persist in skilled trades like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work. These shortages have slowed construction projects.
“The trades are down, which is surprising given the amount of construction and community needs, but they’re down,” Lichtman said. “General contractors tell me there aren’t enough people in the workforce pipeline to fill these jobs. We need more HVAC technicians, plumbers, electricians—everything in the trades. It’s a shallow pool right now, so we really need to build that up. There are programs working on this, but more is needed.”
Despite these challenges, entrepreneurship is on the rise. According to ongoing research by the Business Journal, many new businesses are being launched, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
“People are starting businesses and hiring employees, which is increasing our tax base,” Lichtman said.
Technology also plays a critical role in the region’s development. Roseville has seen growth in tech manufacturing, with companies like Bosch leading the way in semiconductor production. Rancho Cordova is transforming office spaces into innovation hubs, attracting life sciences and research firms. Regional programs are also incentivizing high-paying jobs in industries like aerospace and semiconductors.
Lichtman addressed concerns about recent business closures and downsizing, emphasizing that new business growth continues to outpace closures.
“Since the pandemic, business openings have outpaced closures in all four counties,” Lichtman said.
Healthcare Developments Reshape the Region
Speakers highlighted the healthcare sector as a key driver of job growth. Major healthcare providers—including UC Davis Health, Dignity Health, and Kaiser Permanente—are investing in new facilities across the region, boosting both employment and healthcare access.
“UC Davis Health is developing the first phase of its center for health just west of Bidwell Street, south of the freeway,” said Folsom Mayor Mike Kozlowski. “Dignity Health is building a state-of-the-art medical complex south of Highway 50 that will eventually include a 300-bed acute care hospital. Meanwhile, Kaiser continues its development near Palladio, and Sutter Health is constructing a 100,000-square-foot ambulatory facility on Iron Point Road at Bidwell. These projects solidify Folsom as a growing healthcare hub.”
Collaboration Powers Success Along Highway 50
Throughout the event, leaders emphasized the importance of regional collaboration. Representatives from participating cities discussed how cooperation is helping them capitalize on shared opportunities and attract investment.
Rancho Cordova Vice Mayor Siri Pulipati highlighted the city’s housing boom, with thousands of new units approved. She also noted efforts to link workforce programs with in-demand industries, ensuring residents have the skills needed for future jobs.
Folsom’s Kozlowski discussed his city’s role as a healthcare hub and the impact of residential growth south of Highway 50, which has led to new fire stations, schools, and parks.
Wendy Thomas, chair of the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors, spoke about balancing growth with quality of life. El Dorado is focusing on projects that align with its character, such as workforce cottages and the long-anticipated Costco.
“We are the home of recreation, part of the Gold Rush’s legacy, and the gateway to the Lake Tahoe Basin,” Thomas said. “These attributes elevate the Highway 50 corridor, making us the region’s playground. But to support these amenities, we need a thriving workforce.”
Placerville City Manager Cleve Morris echoed the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. Placerville’s strategy includes supporting local business parks while maintaining the area’s quality of life.
Infrastructure Improvements and Housing
Infrastructure improvements were another focal point. Leaders discussed projects like the Southeast Connector, designed to ease congestion on Highway 50. Regional transportation upgrades, including expansions at Sacramento International Airport, are also underway to meet future demand.
“Have any of you been to the airport lately? Is that parking working for you?,” said Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond during his podium moment ” It’s horrible right? But they’re breaking ground right now on a 5,005 space parking garage. There’s a new pedestrian walkway from terminal to terminal b so when the tram is down or people would choose to, they can walk, in a protected enclosed area as opposed to out in the out in the air. The passenger terminal b is gonna be expanded by multiple gates. There’s a new, the rented car center is moving closer to the airport and new transportation hub, which was split with 2 terminals, where all all transportation will enter and exit in that area for public transportation. So that’s a huge, huge project.”
Housing affordability remains a challenge, with residential construction unable to keep pace with demand. Leaders stressed the need for additional housing to prevent further affordability issues as the population grows.
The Future Folsom event concluded with a sense of optimism. Speakers encouraged businesses and community members to collaborate with local governments to build on the region’s successes. With ongoing investments in healthcare, technology, and infrastructure, the area is well-positioned for sustainable growth.
The event wrapped up with a fast-paced forum featuring the day’s speakers, followed by networking opportunities.
In addition to regional leaders, key sponsors also spoke at the event, including Lisa Haussman, CEO of Dignity Health Mercy Hospital of Folsom, and Brandon Rose, a member of SMUD’s Board of Directors.
For those interested in watching the event in full, the presentation will be available on demand at www.choosefolsom.comand on social media platforms.
