The town recently released a summary of the National Community Survey Livability Report, which was conducted last summer by the National Research Center. The results show that the overall image/reputation of Hopkinton is higher than the national average, with 91 percent of respondents rating it as either excellent or good. The overall quality of life in town also is reported as higher than the national average, with 94 percent of those surveyed stating it’s either excellent or good.

The results previously were shared with the Select Board in March.

“I’ve sat on the board for a number of years, and you get a gut feel for what the community is all about,” then-Select Board Member Brian Herr said at the March 16 meeting. “A lot of those numbers confirm that. … I would congratulate Mr. [Town Manager Norman] Khumalo and his team for providing excellent service to the taxpayers of Hopkinton and treating them with respect.”

The National Community Survey reports on a town’s “livability,” or its desirability to be lived in, and offers a holistic view of the town’s quality of life. Analyzed in the report are 10 central facets of a community: economy, mobility, community design, utilities, safety, natural environment, parks and recreation, health and wellness, education, arts and culture, and inclusivity and engagement.

The survey was mailed to randomly selected households in July 2020, and data was collected through Sept. 14, 2020. The report provides the opinions of a representative sample of 589 residents.

“The results from the National Community Survey’s Livability Report are a testament to Hopkinton’s ongoing efforts to continuously improve our residents’ quality of life,” Khumalo stated. “We are extremely pleased to see numerous ratings within multiple facets increase from our 2013 survey and we look forward to continuing to build upon the work we’ve done to improve town services. We thank those who responded to the survey and also encourage any resident with an issue or concern regarding town services to contact town officials.”

To read the report, click here.