ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STUDY

Purpose

An Economic Development Study will provide strategic recommendations for the Town of Essex based on research. The main objective of this work is to understand Essex’s current economic status and help us craft economic development goals and strategies for the town of Essex. A primary goal, post-study, is to ensure Essex is positioned for sustainable growth that builds off its unique strengths, is responsive to new economic realities and is consistent with the desires of town residents as documented in the 2024 Essex Town Plan.

Project Details

The Town requested proposals in November 2024 for experienced and knowledgeable firms to produce the study. TPMA, Inc. was selected to provide the services. TPMA is a national leader in strategic partnerships and data-informed solutions. This comprehensive planning effort will establish a framework for economic vitality, sustainable growth, community impact, and the support local businesses need to thrive.

TPMA will employ a multi-phased approach, beginning with a review of current plans and data analysis to build upon the work already completed. This analysis will happen concurrently with outreach and engagement, including a community survey, interviews, and focus groups to gather diverse perspectives to ensure the plan reflects the community's needs and aspirations. Using a design thinking approach, TPMA will identify robust strategies primed for collaborative action. 

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Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP)

View the DRAFT plan

The Town of Essex requested proposals in November 2024 for experienced and knowledgeable firms to produce an Economic Development Study. TPMA, Inc. was selected to provide the services. TPMA is a national leader in strategic partnerships and data-informed solutions. This comprehensive planning effort will establish a framework for economic vitality, sustainable growth, community impact, and the support local businesses need to thrive.

The Essex Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) was developed to:

  1. Create an understanding of Essex’s current economicdevelopment status and context.
  2. Build upon previous work, including the 2024 Essex Town Plan and ETC Next.
  3. Assess strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats; identify competitive advantages.
  4. Create an economic development framework with strategies, implementation, and metrics.

The EDSP draft is available for viewing below. The plan will be presented to the Selectboard in April 2026.

Draft EDSP

  1. TPMA Selected to Lead Economic Development Strategic Planning for the Town of Essex

    The Town of Essex is embarking on the creating of a dedicated economic development strategy, and has selected TPMA to lead the process. Read on...
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Documents

  1. Town of Essex VT - Economic Development Study RFP - TPMA

Contact Information

Tammy Getchell, Director of Community Engagement & Economic Development
Jean O'Sullivan, Economic Development Coordinator
community-development@essex.org
Ph. (802) 878-1343