How is tourism affecting you? Park City Chamber launches Resident Sentiment Survey

This year’s survey will assess whether residents have seen progress on these issues and ask how they perceive tourism's benefits and impacts. Responses will help track changes and refine future strategies.

PARK CITY, Utah—The Park City Chamber & Visitors Bureau is asking Summit County residents to share their thoughts on the region’s tourism economy through the  Resident Sentiment Survey, which will launch on Jan. 6. The survey aims to collect 1,000 responses from locals and provide insight into how tourism impacts day-to-day life and community priorities.

“Two years ago, we developed the Sustainable Tourism Plan through extensive surveys and stakeholder input, examining both visitor and resident experiences,” said Becca Gerber, Senior Director of Community & Government Affairs at the Park City Chamber & Visitors Bureau. “Now, we’re following up to measure whether that plan is effective and how tourism affects our community.”

Past surveys have identified key concerns, including traffic, environmental degradation, and workforce housing, as top challenges. This year’s survey will assess whether residents have seen progress on these issues and ask how they perceive tourism’s benefits and impacts. Responses will help track changes and refine future strategies.

“We’re also looking to educate residents on tourism’s role in our local economy,” Gerber said. “For example, sales taxes generated by visitors fund many of the public amenities we all enjoy.”

Participants who complete the 10-minute survey will be entered to win one of five $100 Mountainkind cards. The survey link will be distributed through the Chamber’s newsletter, community partners, and the Park City Chamber Bureau website.
Gerber emphasized the importance of resident participation.

“This is a great opportunity for locals to voice their opinions without needing to attend a long meeting or navigate complex plans. Your input will help us understand how to make tourism more sustainable and less impactful,” Gerber said.

Residents can access the survey on the Chamber’s local website, which is distinct from its visitor-focused “Visit Park City” site. The local site provides resources tailored to Summit County businesses and the community.

“The Resident Sentiment Survey is a unique opportunity to hear directly from locals, not just the business community,” Gerber said. “It’s a way to ensure our work reflects what residents value most.”

The survey results will inform ongoing initiatives, such as promoting Park City as a car-free destination, enhancing waste management systems, and supporting affordability and childcare efforts. The survey is part of a broader effort to balance tourism’s economic benefits with its impacts on the community.

Take the survey here.