One of the most pressing problems Northeast Ohio faces is arrested economic development. The litany of woes is familiar, including the declining population in the urban core, falling median income, under-funding of education in general and technology education in particular, and under-development of the "new economy" enterprises.

A partnership between public broadcasters 90.3 WCPN, WVIZ/PBS and The Plain Dealer resulted in a multi-faceted and in-depth project centering on this important subject. Called "A Quiet Crisis," the project is designed to inform viewers, readers and listeners about how economic development directly affects their lives and has a real impact on their jobs, families, neighborhoods and general livelihood. "A Quiet Crisis" will also explore and reveal how individuals can influence productive regional economic development projects and will encourage broad community involvement and provide opportunities for direct, immediate participation.