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W7 INDIAN RIVER COUNTY Analysis/Key Takeaways Respondent Characteristics Both the public engagement workshops and online survey findings reveal a community deeply rooted in Indian River County, with nearly all respondents living locally and many having long-term residency. There was also a high proportion of older adults among the respondents towards older adults, particularly retirees and full-time employees. Respondent Preferences Concerns about future growth predominantly center around environmental impact, infrastructure readiness, and traffic congestion, reflecting a desire to balance development with responsible planning and environmental stewardship. Both the workshops and online survey indicate a preference for low-density, single-family housing, while also revealing notable support for more compact, multi -modal urban environments. The Community Idea Wall primarily collected calls for more affordable housing, equitable access to services, and effective management of population growth and natural resources. When pressed for preferred locations to accommodate future growth in the County, responses emphasized strategic areas like Downtown Vero Beach and the 85th St. Corridor, highlighting the community's interest in managed growth within existing urban areas rather than expansive developments beyond the USB. The only identified hot spot outside the boundary was located at the future transportation hub west of the new Oslo Interchange. Survey results indicate a substantial segment of the population advocating for maintaining current boundaries. Additionally, suggestions for infill development and adaptive reuse of existing spaces, such as the Indian River Mall, highlight a preference for maximizing existing resources before expanding into new areas. In summary, responses from Indian River County residents expressed housing preferences for larger single-family homes while there is still some desire for diverse living options and sustainable development practices. The community's commitment to preserving its natural and rural character, while enhancing its infrastructure and improving access to services, underscores a dedication to maintaining quality of life as the County continues to grow. Appendix B: Public Engagement Summary B-29