Econsult Solutions is working with JVM Studio, a Philadelphia-based placemaking firm, and The Riddle Company, a retail consulting practice from Washington, D.C., on Media Borough’s Economic Development Strategy and Implementation Plan. As part of this project, the consulting team and the Borough are seeking input from residents and local consumers about downtown retail and economic development in Media, PA. The Perception Survey is located at surveymonkey.com/r/MediaPASurvey and will be available until September 15, 2017.
According to Mayor Bob McMahon, the survey is a critical tool to help the borough with short and long-term economic development planning. “Keeping Media attractive and welcoming requires a renewed focus on the key elements that make a downtown thrive: easy navigation, dynamic retail, and a strong sense of place,” said McMahon. “This survey provides a chance for people to share their perception about these areas, and how they envision Media in the future.”
The Perception Survey is just one of many tools utilized by the consulting team to help support the economic development plan. The consultants have hosted a series of stakeholder meetings with representatives of the retail and business community, public officials, property owners, and residents. This survey provides an avenue for those unable to attend the meetings to share their ideas and preferences with the consultants. “We use these types of surveys to supplement original data and research about the markets we work in”, said Peter Angelides, Ph.D., Principal at ESI. “Surveys also help us reach a larger audience than would be feasible through community and one-on-one meetings in an abbreviated period of time”.
The assignment is to strengthen Media’s appeal by building upon its vibrant environment, engaging the community around a shared vision for growth, and developing a sustainable implementation strategy. The project team will look at economic development opportunities and alternatives, with close attention to business attraction and downtown retail.