North Branford
North Branford hired CERC to formulate an economic development action plan, followed by a strategic marketing plan.
Description:
The town of North Branford decided to renew its efforts to plan for its future and engaged CERC to formulate an economic development action plan, followed by a strategic marketing plan. The action plan was intended to serve as an initial component of the town's plan of conservation and development, as well as provide an economic development strategy to be used by the town to enhance its economic and tax base. The strategic marketing plan provided a timeframe of recommended tactics for retaining and recruiting appropriate businesses to North Branford.
Issues:
North Branford had experienced significant residential growth over the past several decades which created the demand for additional services. At the same time, growth in its commercial and industrial sector lagged. Much of the area's economic development occurred in neighboring communities. The town faced the challenge of utilizing its scarce resource of land in the most effective way possible to increase its economic base, at the same time enhancing the rural quality of life enjoyed by the citizens.
Deliverables:
CERC prepared a report which analyzed the civic capacity for economic growth, identified constraints and limitations, and made specific recommendations as to what actions would be needed by the town to enhance economic development. The civic capacity was analyzed with input gathered from a business survey. CERC also analyzed the economic conditions that impact North Branford. The purpose was to identify industries and business categories that have growth potential within the region in which North Branford was located and the town's place within the region. Another component focused on analyzing the real estate market conditions impacting North Branford. Specific properties were assessed as to their development potential, based upon the overall economic findings. Finally, CERC included recommendations in the action plan for future efforts by the town to advance its economic development potential to the next level. CERC also completed a market plan for the town, including identifying a positioning strategy for the town based on its strengths. The process identified key audiences that needed to learn about North Branford's qualities in order for the town to retain its existing business base and to fill vacancies in key retail locations.
Outcomes:
The town has begun implementation of its economic development program, as recommended in the study. Meanwhile, the town has initiated the establishment of an economic development position within the municipal government to further its new marketing objectives.