3.3 Community Survey

An online survey was used to hear citizen ideas and to identify opportunities and constraints for future infrastructure development. The survey also informed respondents about the responsibility of the McDowell County Tourism Development Authority (MCTDA) to manage occupancy tax revenues for marketing and tourism-related capital infrastructure projects.

The survey received a total of 210 responses between April 20 and June 3, 2021. The survey was distributed online by the MCTDA, Town, City, and County officials, and local stakeholder groups via web, email and social media.

This section presents key survey findings. Complete survey results can be found in Appendix D on page 160.

FEMALE

How important is tourism?

Tourism Categories in Order of Importance Respondent Demographics

GENDER MALE

60+ 23-30

AGE

31-40

41-50 2% OTHER 6% ADJOINING COUNTIES

PREFER NOT TO ANSWER 51-60

92% MCDOWELL CO.

Barriers to Access

Development Priorities Top Four Downtown Priorities

Top Three Natural Assets