Despite a weaker than expected job report , President Bush remains optimistic about the nation's economy. He pointed out a growth spurt that closed out last year in a speech Friday. Brazos Valley officials say 2006 will be a good year for our local economy.

The start of a new year brings a new economic outlook and local leaders say all signs point to a prosperous year for the Brazos Valley.

"I think the economy is very strong in the Bryan, College Station area. I think we're looking for some good solid growth this coming year," said Royce Hickman with the Bryan, College Station Chamber of Commerce.

He says the Brazos Valley has generated a lot of interest from outside businesses and will continue to do so in 2006.

The Research Valley Partnership, which seeks out new businesses to come to the area is changing its focus a bit and plans to tap into the local market even more.

"Within the last year we've realized that we have such a gold mine in B/CS and specifically Texas A&M, that we're trying harder to focus internally on what's going on campus," said Celia Goode-Haddock with Research Valley Partnership.

Several businesses including companies dealing with health sciences, technology, and research will get up and running this year creating hundreds of new jobs.

Analysts say it's better for several small businesses to come to the area rather than a big business.

"You want a business that is stable and if they do leave for any reason it does not hurt the community," said Goode-Haddock.

Economic developers will continue to tout Texas A&M and the desire for many to live in work in Bryan/ College Station as a reason for new businesses to come here.