Community Survey Results
Over the last several months, we’ve been collecting survey responses from community members like you to generate ideas for the new Main Street mural.
The survey is still open so if you haven’t given your input, now is a great time to do it!
So far, more than 50 people have responded to the survey, and we have loved reading your thoughts, stories, memories, and hopes for our community.
At the beginning of the survey, we asked you to “share five words to describe your experience living, working, or frequenting locations in this community.”
We created a word cloud from the responses so far, and saw four themes emerge that were echoed throughout the rest of the survey.
This word cloud highlights responses from the more than 50 people who have filled out the survey so far.
1) Social connection
The most frequently mentioned words in the first question were:
Friendly (14)
Community (11)
Neighborly (7)
These words suggest that South Evanston is a place where interpersonal relationships and social bonds are highly valued, and that social connection is a priority for community members.
What makes you feel connected to this community?
“Connections and institutions like churches, schools, sports, book-groups, and other activities.”
“Seeing neighbors in local businesses, being known by the local business owners, connecting with neighbors.”
2) Inclusivity and openness
There was a strong emphasis on being open to everyone with the following words appearing frequently:
Diverse (10)
Welcoming (8)
Belonging (7)
Kindness (7)
Acceptance
We also saw these same themes show up at our mural community workshops.
3) A vibrant creative atmosphere
Many of you celebrated a spirited environment in our community, using words such as:
Fun (9)
Creative (7)
Eclectic (5)
Artsy (5)
We couldn’t agree more, and it’s one of the many reasons we’re excited to have an artist like Oscar Joyo on board as a muralist.
4 ) Livability and Environment
The survey revealed that residents value a practical and pleasant physical environment as noted by the frequent use of words such as:
Walkable (6)
Lake (4)
Local (4)
Comfortable (4)
“Southeast Evanston is a very walkable and diverse and welcoming community with great small businesses and near the lake… We walk everywhere and always run into neighbors on the street… I love that we have two bakeries, a flower shop, vintage stores, fine dining and fun dining - and so many great outdoor eating places, and so many parks and green space.”
Overall, the data paints a picture of a warm, inclusive, and active community that prizes both its creative spirit and its “small-town” neighborly feel.
If you have more words that you’d like to add to the list, take the survey and share your ideas! Then join us on May 16th for YEA! Fest at Raymond Park where we’re unveiling the final design of the new mural.