Dryden Council has awarded a contract to carry out what is being called a ‘Community Capacity Study and Business Gap Analysis.’
Economic Development Manager Tyler Peacock says part of the study will focus on understanding the extent, nature, and retail-commercial potential of the Dryden retail market over time.
“I think it’s going to shine a light on the areas of opportunity of our community. I think right now we have an idea what the gaps may be, however, this should provide a very deep dive into those gaps, and it will be valuable information for our community.
Peacock stresses the purpose of the study is to help local businesses grow and prosper.
“I think it provides important information for our businesses regarding demographics and the location of their potential customers which would aid them in business planning and marketing. I think they will be able to find new customers and vice-versa as well, I think customers may be able to find new services in Dryden that they weren’t aware of.”
Peacock believes the research will also identify opportunities for outside partnerships.
The second scope of the study is better positioning the community to meet future needs and grow the local economy.
Marshalina Reader is the Special Projects and Communication Manager and says it will include a detailed assessment on community infrastructure, facilities, and services to ensure they align with Dryden’s strategic planning.
Reader says the city wants to develop, implement, and sustain their own solutions to problems in a way that helps them shape and improve their physical, social, economic, and cultural environments.
She says, “Through this process we really want to get a great understanding of the existing gaps, deficiencies, estimated life cycles in terms of asset management and how are we going to forecast future needs to accommodate growth.”
Reader notes they will be actively engaging community members and holding public consultations.
The findings of the comprehensive study, being carried out by Explorer Solutions Inc., will allow leaders, businesses, and organizations make evidence-based, informed decisions.
Council has approved the $126,720 contract and the study is still eligible for funding under the FedNor program.
