There are numerous train spurs, and Amtrak passenger service. There has been some diversification in the manufacturing industries, particularly in Grant County, where a number of firms have located. In addition to the well developed infrastructure, cheap electricity is abundant. Trade and service industries have shown good growth and provide large numbers of jobs in the counties. The dominance of agriculture does cause some concerns, though.
Unemployment remains considerably higher in both counties than it is throughout the state.
Throughout the state, where agriculture is not the primary industry, the rate was 7.5 percent. Income and earnings are also a problem. Because farm work occupies so much of the labor force, and because farm work is relatively low-wage work, the county income indicators are low. In both Adams and Grant counties, per capita income, the annual average wage, and median household income are all considerably less than the statewide averages. Further diversification and growth of area manufacturing industries, which are normally higher paid than other sectors, should result in increases in income and earnings.