Survey: 2,589 Utah County residents rate quality of life high but cite growth, roads and density as concerns

Richard Piot, communications manager, presented the results of the county's resident satisfaction survey at the Feb. 12 Utah County Commission meeting, reporting 2,589 responses and broad satisfaction with quality of life alongside recurring concerns about growth, congestion and roads.

Piot said 69% of respondents think the county is moving in the right direction and 85% rate the county's quality of life as good. He told commissioners most respondents had lived in the county 10 years or more and that comments frequently raised growth-related concerns, including housing density and traffic. “A large number of people who responded said that they've lived here a long time,” Piot said, adding that respondents value natural resources such as Bridal Veil Falls and river and canal trails.

Survey results showed parks and recreation as the top priority for tourism-tax spending, followed by support for the Provo Airport expansion and local arts and culture. Breakdown by geography showed most responses coming from central and northern Utah County, with some representation from the west and south. On roads, Piot said 25% of respondents were dissatisfied and another 8% were extremely dissatisfied, an outlier compared with generally positive service ratings for elections, the sheriff's office and the health department.

Piot said the full Qualtrics results and public comments are available for commissioners to review and suggested the county consider making the survey an annual tool. Commissioner Beltran thanked staff and supported continuing the survey program.