March 13th, 2017 11:45 AM by Shane Greene
NEWTON – There has been a buzz among leaders in Catawba County about attracting and retaining a working-age population.
From strategic planning sessions to bond projects, Catawba County and its municipalities are poised for growth – but does Catawba County have the housing necessary to support a larger population?
The county’s strategic planning sessions offer commissioners and residents an in-depth analysis on topics related to economic development – mainly attracting younger, working-age professionals to the area.
Jacky Eubanks, planning and parks director for Catawba County, made a presentation to county commissioners in February highlighting the current assessment of housing stock in the area and how to prepare for growth.
When compared to 15 other metropolitan statistical areas (MSA), including Asheville, Charlotte, Durham, Winston-Salem and more, Hickory ranks number one in percentage of housing built pre-1980.
The Hickory MSA includes Catawba County, Burke County, Alexander County and Caldwell County, Eubanks said. Read more...