Chester County residents value open space preservation, see the county as a great place to raise a family, and are generally positive about the county’s economic future, according to a recent VISTA2025 survey.

Overall, 300 respondents reported positive views of county economic development efforts, believe the county has maintained a “small-town” feel and is a good place to raise a family, and feel that local K-12 schools are meeting student educational needs.  Results also showed residents have strong feelings about the need to balance economic initiatives with open space and farmland preservation.

The community questionnaire was conducted by VISTA2025 as it works with county government and business leaders to develop a strategy to guide the next 10 years of local economic development efforts.

Looking to the future, respondents said Chester County’s greatest economic opportunities are the agriculture, high tech, and manufacturing industries; capitalizing on the county’s existing assets; attracting new businesses; and redevelopment efforts in Coatesville.

“An important part of maintaining Chester County’s strong economy is constantly looking to and preparing for the future,” said Tom Fillippo, president and CEO of Devault Foods and private sector co-chair of the VISTA2025 Executive Alliance.

“We also need to develop a strategy that capitalizes on the county’s core strengths and reflects the values and priorities of local residents.  That’s why the public feedback we have received is so important.”

A total of 302 individuals responded to VISTA 2025’s call to answer the online questionnaire during May and June.  A full copy of the findings is available here: www.vista2025.com.

The VISTA 2025 process is being managed by the Chester County Economic Development Council and financially supported by its visionary partners. TIP Strategies of Austin, Texas is also a consultant.