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Survey targets Western North Carolina business recovery after Helene

Survey targets Western North Carolina business recovery after Helene

Depot Street in Asheville's River Arts District during cleanup from flooding caused by Tropical Storm Helene. Photo: Saga Communications/828newsNOW


ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Businesses across Western North Carolina are being asked to weigh in on their recovery from Tropical Storm Helene through a regional survey aimed at gauging ongoing needs and economic conditions.

The survey, facilitated by Riverbird Research, is the third and final in a series tracking the storm’s impact roughly 18 months after it struck the region.

Officials say the survey is open to any business with a presence in Western North Carolina, regardless of size or industry — including sole proprietors, large employers and companies that may have closed since the storm. Organizers are seeking input from businesses at all stages of recovery, from those still rebuilding to those minimally affected.

“Your business perspective plays an important role in helping shape how recovery efforts and regional decisions move forward,” Heidi Reiber, senior director of research at Riverbird Research, said in a statement.

The effort is a partnership among the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Buncombe County, the city of Asheville, the Land of Sky Regional Council, Explore Asheville and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

Responses will be kept confidential and reported only in aggregate, according to organizers. Participants may also opt into a drawing for one of five $100 gift cards to a Western North Carolina restaurant.

The survey is available online and will remain open through mid-May.

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