Top 3 Community Features to Consider in Site Selection

11/14/2024

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When considering a new place for a site there are many factors to consider. You’ll want to look into the location, your future workforce, transportation, the cost, and other factors. However, quality of life is consistently ranked as one of the most important factors to consider in site selection.

  1. Recreation and Leisure Time

Recreation and leisure options play a vital role in site selection because it directly impacts future employees and their families, which can help attract and retain talent. Access to parks, cultural events, and recreational facilities gives employees opportunities for relaxation and social engagement, contributing to their overall wellness and job satisfaction. For businesses looking into recreation and leisure time in an area can reduce turnover, increase morale, and support a balanced lifestyle, which are all beneficial for a thriving, sustainable workplace.

South Western Kentucky is home to Land Between the Lakes, the largest inland peninsula in America, between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The area offers some of the best hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and horseback riding. It’s a world-class getaway that’s close to home.  Each year, local festivals celebrate everything from other cultures to butterflies, to country ham and bourbon. There’s always an activity to do in the SWK, like visiting a museum, joining a softball league, heading to a Hoptown Hoppers baseball game, or golfing. Fun is easy to find here.

  1. Education

Nearby universities, colleges, and workforce development programs are key factors in site selection because they create a sustainable talent pipeline for businesses. Access to higher education fosters a skilled workforce by offering relevant training and certification programs that equip employees with essential skills. Additionally, companies benefit from partnerships with local institutions for research, internships, and recruitment, which can reduce hiring costs and enhance employee retention. These educational resources make it easier for businesses to attract talent, adapt to changing industry needs, and support long-term growth.

South Western Kentucky workers (and companies) regularly capitalize on the rich supply of universities, colleges, and technical schools. There are many programs available that work to train the future workforce and develop skills of current workers. Hopkinsville Community College is part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. It has a Technology Training Center designed for area companies and industries. Key courses include:

  • Agriculture Technology
  • Electronics
  • Engineering
  • Industrial Technology
  • Applied Science
  • Computerized Manufacturing and Machining
  • Business Management

Murray State, consistently recognized as one of the top universities in the United States, has a fully functioning campus in Hopkinsville and the main campus is less than an hour away.

  1. Economy

Local businesses are essential to consider in site selection because they indicate a healthy, supportive economy and community infrastructure. Local shops, restaurants, and service providers create a self-sustaining economic loop that benefits both employees and employers by making the area more attractive to potential talent. They offer convenience and lifestyle benefits, like dining and shopping options, which can improve employee satisfaction and quality of life. Furthermore, a vibrant local business scene often fosters partnerships and collaborations, boosting innovation and resources for businesses entering the area.

A significant aspect of South Western Kentucky’s livability is its community-oriented economy. By choosing local small businesses, residents strengthen their neighborhoods and support economic growth. The holiday season is the perfect time to shop at community events like Cadiz’s Mingle & Jingle Open House or the Candy Cane Crawl in Hopkinsville. These festive gatherings showcase local gems like The Persnickety Pig, Magnolia Too Boutique, Ruffled Willow, and more. Find local businesses in our 3 counties:

This commitment to supporting small businesses sustains South Western Kentucky’s local economy. Spending locally means each dollar multiplies in impact, from creating jobs to funding community projects. It's an investment in the people who make South Western Kentucky a wonderful place to live, work, and explore.

Many factors ultimately lead to site selection and business expansion decisions. These three quality of life indicators are just a piece of that puzzle you should consider as you consider expansion.  The World Health Organization identifies additional quality of life indicators at https://www.who.int/tools/whoqol.  We share more information related to quality of life for companies that locate in South Western Kentucky in the “Living Here” section of southwesternky.com.