The Alabama College of Osteopathic
Medicine is being touted as a future "economic engine for the region."
According to school officials, the college will generate about $34.5 million
for the state by the end of 2013. That number is expected to rise to $81.8
million by 2020 and over $116 million by 2030.
These numbers come from the Tripp Umbach
Company the county commissioned to develop an economic impact projection for
the college. According to the company, the college is expected to bring in over
67 jobs by next year and nearly 400 by 2030 in Houston County.
The economic impact is already being
felt in Dothan as construction for the college is underway. "During the
construction time there are 150 or so jobs that are being created, and those
folks have to live and work in the community. That is having an economic
impact," said Ron Owen, the CEO of the Southeast Alabama Medical center.
The College is scheduled to be ready
for its first class next summer.