A recently released Community Survey, conducted by ETC Institute, paints a compelling picture of Fuquay-Varina as a community that residents are proud to call home. Presented at the Town Board meeting on April 7, the results demonstrate a town that consistently delivers high-quality services and fosters a strong sense of community.
The survey, a regular tool used to assess resident satisfaction and identify areas for improvement objectively, reveals that Fuquay-Varina isn’t just keeping pace with regional and national benchmarks – it’s surpassing them. ETC Institute recognized the town’s exceptional performance by awarding Fuquay-Varina its prestigious Leading the Way Award. This honor is reserved for only the top 10% of local governments in the United States, based on service quality, customer service, and value for taxpayer dollars. The survey data show that Fuquay-Varina’s ratings exceeded the national average in 47 out of 51 areas, with 27 of those areas exceeding the average by more than 20%. This is the second Community Survey administered in Fuquay-Varina.
The results highlight several key strengths of the town:
- A Strong Sense of Community: An overwhelming 89% of respondents rated Fuquay-Varina as an “Excellent” or “Good” place to live, with similar high marks for overall quality of life and raising children.
- A Welcoming Environment: A majority (76%) feel Fuquay-Varina is a welcoming and inclusive community, and a strong 69% believe it’s a good place for seniors.
- Exceptional Service: Residents consistently praised the quality of service provided by town employees, with satisfaction levels 41% higher than the US average.
- Safe Place to Live: A resounding 93% of residents feel safe in Fuquay-Varina, and the vast majority expressed satisfaction with the effectiveness of both police and fire services.
- Positive Trends: The survey also revealed positive trends in resident satisfaction with special events, the accessibility of information on the town website, the programming offered at the Arts Center, and neighborhood safety.
While overall satisfaction remains high and similar to 2022, the survey also identified areas for improvement. Residents indicated water and sewer services, stormwater management, parks and greenways, and sidewalk/street maintenance are areas for continued investment.
Finally, residents identified traffic management and growth/development planning as top priorities for the Town.
“We value citizen input,” Mayor Blake Massengill said. “Our Town is committed to addressing these opportunities for betterment and continuing to build a thriving community.
The town has already demonstrated a commitment to addressing these concerns, with 23 transportation projects, totaling $63 million, slated for completion or currently under construction within the next two years. Furthermore, a significant $300 million has been allocated to water and wastewater improvements, laying the groundwork for long-term growth, economic development, and an even higher quality of life for residents.
“Thank you to all who participated in the Community Survey. We’re proud of our standing among the top 10% of local governments in the United States, and we will continue striving to be a dash more – delivering that extra bit of service and value to our community,” said Massengill.
