In 2013, the Cabinet selected a consultant to conduct an update to the 2006 NQL Study. During
this process, the Cabinet worked closely with Civic League leaders, City staff and elected
officials, and the consultant team to facilitate and oversee an update process that included:
•
Gathering quality of life priorities from Civic League leaders, City staff and elected
officials,
•
Conducting a survey of the national state of the practice in neighborhood quality of life
indices,
•
Updating the 2006 NQL Study methodology and NSA boundaries to reflect advances in
the state of the practice,
•
Statistical analysis of 26 variables to assess the neighborhood-scale livability by
Neighborhood Statistical Areas (NSAs), and
•
Identification of High Priority NSAs to help target future investments in neighborhood
quality of life.
This report, the 2014 Neighborhood Quality of Life Study Update (2014 NQL Study Update),
summarizes the results of this process including the research process, the findings and the larger
set of information that contributed to the study conclusions.
The goal of this report is to increase public awareness and understanding of critical quality of life
issues and challenges facing the City of Chesapeake and to foster collaboration and discussion
around finding solutions. By working together, citizens, elected officials, businesses, community
groups and staff can create stronger neighborhoods throughout Chesapeake.
November 2014
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