Specialty Surveys

Transportation

Our surveys and focus groups have been used extensively in transportation studies. We have conducted travel diaries of residents and travel-to-work studies of employees. We also have surveyed riders of bus and rail. To improve transportation planning, we have conducted origin and destination studies that were used for updating travel models. We have tested public support for transportation solutions to traffic congestion and have designed and implemented a survey technique for measuring resident values associated with transportation improvements. Our surveys have been used to gather the perspectives of representative samples of residents as part of environmental impact statements (EISs) related to planned transportation improvements and our analyses include measurement of stated and revealed resident preferences.

Parks and Recreation

Parks and recreation departments frequently have used our surveys and focus groups for studies that shape and evaluate parks and recreation planning. We have created evaluation strategies to monitor use of open space and trails. Our survey work with special district populations has been used to determine support for or opposition to proposed bonding and tax increases. We have tested residents’ interest in the expansion of recreation facilities as well as measured resident perspective about the quality of service delivery for parks and recreation and the availability and maintenance of open space and trails.

Environmental Issues

Our surveys and focus groups have provided direction in environmental studies regarding water, waste, open space and energy issues. We have conducted surveys on water conservation, water redundancy, water quality, water reclamation, water billing and use of coin operated washing machines. We have gauged public support and willingness to pay for recycling programs, transit and alternate modes of transportation as well as open space acquisition. Our surveys regularly have been used to evaluate environmental programs and policies by measuring changes in resident knowledge, attitudes, intentions and behaviors.

Human Services

Human service organizations have used our surveys and focus groups to help plan and evaluate a variety of programs. We have conducted numerous studies of special population needs such as older adults, low income residents and youth. We have teamed with and provided information to numerous community based organizations about the effectiveness of services in topic areas such as domestic violence, youth self esteem, alcohol and drug use, health and lifestyle issues, conflict resolution and more.

Community Health

Public health departments have used our surveys and focus groups to create increasingly healthy environments for their residents. We have conducted surveys on unintended pregnancy, mosquito abatement, smoking ordinances, access to health care, recreation and leisure activities and health- related issues affecting older adults. Our survey work with health care providers has included needs assessments for new facilities and programs, measurement of patient satisfaction and determination of public assistance eligibility for uninsured patients. We also have surveyed clients of community based organizations to assess improvements in the areas of nutrition, food security, physical activity and obesity prevention.

Business Surveys

NRC has created a customizable survey of businesses, called The Main Street Business Monitor™. Local governments and businesses often must work together to assure a thriving local economy and understanding where the partnership is working and where it can improve is essential to success. The MSBM is designed to answer these key questions:

What do the people who run businesses need to succeed?
What do business owners or managers think about the services that local jurisdictions provides?
What barriers inhibit strong commerce in jurisdictions across the country?

The Main Street Business Monitor™ answers these and other important questions for business owners, staff of chambers of commerce and other business organizations, elected officials, local government staff, directors of business improvement districts, economic development officers and residents in community organizations. The 100 item questionnaire provides a starting point for you to customize your business community survey.