Moving forward, step one

The first thing that needs to happen before Hammond can move forward is our leaders must be willing to accept good ideas, regardless of origination. Until that begins to happen we will continue to be trapped in an economic, political, and social quagmire.
Economically we should be actively and agressively working to take advantage of our geographic location and the transportation infrastructure that we have. We are, quite literally, at the crossroads of America.
I believe that aggressive marketing of the Gibson Yards as a site for an intermodal rail yard would be a great step forward. If that could be developed it would bring many spin off industries with it; warehousing, distribution, trucking, etc.
The Homan Avenue corridor would be ideal for medical professionals. This would take advantage of the proximity to Illinois, without the onerous restrictions of being in Illinois.
And what about our lakefront? Believe it or not Hammonds' lakefront consists mainly of two beaches and a marina. The Port Authority seems to be doing a good job with the marina, but what about the beach and park? Surely these can be groomed much better than they are, drawing more people, allowing for some small businesses to spring up there.
These are some of my ideas, what are yours?
more later......