Rockville, MD ( February 18, 2004 )—A new year for Rockville 's economic development agency also comes with a new name. The former Greater Rockville Partnership is now Rockville Economic Development, Inc., or REDI, and while the organization changes its name, its services and objectives remain the same.

"Our mission remains developing new business and stimulating economic growth for the city of Rockville, helping new companies succeed, and promoting those that are established," said Sally Sternbach, Executive Director for REDI. "The new name emphasizes the purpose of our organization and the services we provide," she said.

Created in 1997 by the City of Rockville, the economic development organization is a public-private partnership. The organization was designed to strengthen and broaden the economic base in Rockville through business recruitment, retention, and expansion efforts. The close working relationship between both public and private sectors provides valuable assistance and direction to existing and potential businesses in Rockville.

The new name comes with a renewed commitment to the companies in Rockville. It also comes during a time of exciting change within the city. One source of renewed vibrancy in the city is the Town Center development, a mixed-use project that will bring new housing, retail, and office space to Rockville 's central business district.

Other Rockville projects include mixed-use developments in Fallsgrove, at the Twinbrook Metro station, the Preserve at Tower Oaks, and King Farm's Irvington Centre. These projects are in different stages of development, helping to fuel the activity in Rockville.

"Our name change reflects the excitement happening in the city," said Albert Lampert, Chair of the Board of Directors for REDI and President of Aspen Systems, a Rockville-based information management company. "Rockville is a place where both businesses and families can enjoy a welcoming, supportive, and nurturing environment," he said.

The organization's Web site is also undergoing a change in design to better market Rockville as a destination for new and relocating businesses and to promote the city's quality of life. The Web site, to be launched this year, is seen as a first step in a broader effort to publicize REDI's new name and to promote the organization as a resource for people and businesses considering a move to or expansion in Rockville.

For further information on Rockville Economic Development, Inc., call 301.315.8096 or e-mail Daniel Hurtado, Marketing Manager, at Daniel@GreaterRockville.org.

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The mission of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI), is to strengthen and broaden the economic base of Rockville. As part of that mission, REDI promotes Rockville as a great place to work and live; assists businesses looking to relocate or expand in Rockville; facilitates the site selection, permitting, and licensing processes; serves as a liaison to the people and programs in other levels of government; and maintains and disseminates information on the community, workforce, and economic climate of Rockville, where we are "Known for the Companies We Keep."