20/20 Study

20/20 Study

What was Project 20/20?
It was a study taken by a group of Ionia County citizens from various parts of the county with different occupations, working with Michigan State University to look at the long term needs of the county.

Why was this study done?
Ionia County population was growing and it's character was changing. That was evident from the 1990 census that showed more than a 10 percent county-wide growth--much of it in the rural townships. This study was done to help with the anticipating needs of the growing rural county to help inform elected officials address those needs.

What comprised the study?
The study involved 1,200 households, roughly five percent of the county households. The committee worked with a list of concerns that they felt needed to be addressed and with the help of MSU Research Specialist Joel Lichty the study was comprised.

Who sponsored the study?
The Ionia County Board of Commissioners was the primary sponsors. In addition, other agencies cooperated, including the County Cooperative Extension Service, Ionia County Intermediate School District, Ionia County Farm Bureau, and the Ionia Downtown Development Authority, as well as, city, village and township officials.

If you would like any information about this or data on this study please contact the Ionia County Economic Alliance.