TAMPA, FL (April 10, 2007) – For the fifth consecutive year, the Planning Commission conducted an annual Quality of Life Survey in Hillsborough County .  Citizens evaluated eighteen quality of life factors based on their perception of that factor compared to last year.  The Survey helps the Planning Commission understand the concerns of Hillsborough County residents and how those concerns could be addressed in the local comprehensive plans.  Surveys were mailed in January to 8,500 randomly-selected registered voters in Hillsborough County .

With five years of data, it is interesting to note the change in perception of each factor over time.  Economic Opportunities and Non-Government Social Services were two of the factors that showed an improvement since 2002.  Economic Opportunities relates to jobs and employment.  “That makes sense; jobs are plentiful,” said Suzi Dieringer, Economic Research Manager with the Planning Commission.  “Our economy has been booming over the past five years.  Our unemployment rate is lower than most cities in the nation.”  Non-Government Social Services includes the presence of charities and non-profit organizations.

Two factors, Affordable Housing and Transportation System, were perceived worse in 2006 than in 2002.  Respondents also indicated more attention should be given to these factors over the next year.  Affordable Housing includes both rental and home ownership.  Transportation System reflects a system with options for moving people and goods. 

The Survey provided an opportunity to ask questions of special interest on the back of the survey form.  This year’s area of special interest was transportation and growth.  Almost 95 percent of residents who participated in the special survey indicated that they strongly believe growth should pay for itself.  Over 80 percent also anticipate the need for rail/transit within the next 50 years and support rail/transit in addition to roads to address regional transportation issues. 

“There’s no denying it, the results reflect that Hillsborough County citizens have a strong opinion in favor of rail/transit – at least the ones who responded to the survey.” remarked Ramond Chiaramonte, AICP, Planning Commission Assistant Executive Director.  

Citizens were split on the need for more roads.  When asked if building more roads would solve our traffic congestion over the next 50 years, fifty-five percent of respondents said no.  “I think this is evident, citizens want mobility choices.  One transportation option is not enough, given our large projected growth.” said Planning Commissioner Executive Director Robert B. Hunter, FAICP.

The Planning Commission is the official Land Planning Agency for the four jurisdictions, the cities of Plant City, Tampa, Temple Terrace and Unincorporated Hillsborough County.  It also serves as staff to the Metropolitan Planning Organization and Hillsborough River Planning Board.

For more information contact:

Suzi Dieringer

Economic Research Manager

Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission

(813) 273-3774, ext. 348