Public Administration Field Service Program for Energy-Impacted Communities. Economic Diversification Project: Business Community Survey, Carbondale, Colorado

摘要

This report analyzes the results of a business community survey for the Town of Carbondale, Colo., as a first step in lessening its economic dependency on the mining industry and creating a more diversified economy. Students and faculty from the University of Colorado, under the Public Administration Field Service Program for Energy - Impacted Communities, offered technical help. Results from the 77 questionnaires returned showed that (1) respondents felt the most important economic planning issues were the preservation of the small - town character, development of the older business core, and promotion of tourism; (2) most businesses were individually owned and had less than five employees, except for the finance, real estate, and insurance sector; (3) owners felt optimistic about increased business activity; and (4) respondents felt that restaurants and a discount store were needed. Further studies are necessary to define the extent and potential of present tourism, size of a trade area, and the extent of a potential labor force. Notes and four appendices with energy - impact and business inventory information, questionnaire responses, and a community profile are attached.