The heart of the Chester County business community is pumping strong, and the prescription for continued vibrancy is effective management of new business growth, attraction and retention of a qualified workforce, and improved public transportation and traffic conditions, according to the latest Take the Pulse checkup survey.

“Take the Pulse survey results further validated one of the primary themes contained in the VISTA 2025 strategy: Quality of place is paramount to the people of Chester County and critical to our continued ability to attract talent and businesses,” Chester County Economic Development Council President and CEO Gary W. Smith said.

Specifically, the most beneficial aspects of Chester County’s quality of place were its community safety, community events and activities, recreational opportunities, community attitudes, and quality of educational system.

“It is reassuring to find that Chester County business owners really value the quality of place that Chester County offers, and it’s not surprising to see that public transportation and traffic congestion have the most negative effect on businesses,” Commissioner and VISTA 2025 Co-Chair Michelle Kichline said.

“We will continue to identify the top transportation improvements that support economic development and are working on ways to improve additional modes of transportation, including rail, bike and pedestrian infrastructure.”

As for the pulse of the county’s businesses, nine out of 10 leaders who responded to the 20-question public survey assessed the local economic climate as “stable” or “improving,” and an incredible 94 percent of the 400 surveys expressed an expectation for increased revenues over the coming year. Beyond that, 82 percent of business owners anticipate maintaining or growing their business.

“The data gathered will help influence the course of Chester County’s economic well-being over the next decade,” Commissioner Kathi Cozzone stated.

“These survey results, combined with the feedback we receive through our urban center forums, our workforce and education summit and workshops, and the work of our goal teams, continue to provide valuable insight for our future economy.”

Click here to review key findings of the Take the Pulse survey.