Indiana Code Title 5. State and Local Administration § 5-28-26-0.3

(1) is at a competitive disadvantage for economic development due to the area's rural character;

(2) faces unique challenges because the area borders another state;

(3) consistently ranks among the highest areas in unemployment in Indiana;  and

(4) is served by an interstate highway and rail infrastructure that is well suited for the development of a proposed global commerce center.