Georgetown Town Council tonight (July 9) will get its first official look at a market analysis conducted in partnership between the University of Delaware and the Georgetown Chamber’s Economic Development Committee (EDC).

The presentation will take place at council’s regular meeting, beginning at 7 p.m. at town hall on The Circle.

The project started as a do-it-yourself survey conducted by members of the EDC, but under the direction of survey subcommittee chair Bill Pfaff, has grown into a partnership with the university.

Highlighted in the analysis were demographics of the trade area, customer survey results, areas for potential expansion and recommendations from the university staff. To those familiar with Georgetown, many of the results were expected, but the hope is to use the information to recruit business and help the town plan for future growth.

Recurring themes in the report include the importance of U.S. 113 in economic development, the large role Wal-Mart plays in the trade area, Georgetown’s diverse population and the public’s desire for additional entertainment and dining options (see attached graphs).

“It’s a snapshot,” project manager Troy Mix said of the report. “It asks what do people want, and are there enough people in the trade area to justify what people want.”

The analysis is the first of its kind in Sussex County and could mark a major step in responsible commercial growth in Georgetown.

“It’s essentially a blueprint for the business community,” Pfaff said when the project kicked off. “This study and the end product will really be a great tool for any business looking to relocate to Georgetown or expand in town.

“It will really set Georgetown apart from other towns.”

Town council agreed, voting to give $10,000 toward the project.

“It’s going to be huge for the planning office…if we update it ourselves on a smaller scale, it will definitely help,” then mayor Mike Wyatt said following an April 9 meeting with university officials.

Town planning director Tom Klein echoed his comments.

“It definitely can be used as a tool [with the comprehensive plan update],” he said. “The information here is going to be very helpful.”

From here, the university will be publishing 20 hard copies of the market analysis to be available throughout town to the public. An electronic copy will also be provided and will be available on the town and chamber Web sites.