Recent Research

The Institute conducts routine research for community organizations and counties utilizing data and surveys; see the most recent publications as well as data tools and research resources below.

Research Archive

2022 Research

Survey of Wages & Benefits for the Grant County Economic Development Council

By Katie Gower, Dr. Kelley Cullen, & Dr. Patrick Jones
A survey of Grant County companies to better understand the state of business in Grant County, including factors such as location, wages, exports, business environment, and benefits.

An Analysis of the Effects of COVID-19 on the Economy of the Greater Tri-Cities & a Near-term Outlook

By Dr. Kelley Cullen, Dr. Patrick Jones & Sophia Vrieling
A comprehensive data analysis of COVID-19’s impact on the local economy of the Tri-Cities, including its impact on economic sectors, revenue, economic assistance programs, and the workforce.

An Analysis of Trends in the Continuum of Housing for Homeless & Low-Income Residents in Benton-Franklin Counties

By Dr. Patrick Jones, Dr. Kelley Cullen, Sophia Vrieling, & Katie Gower
A data analysis report regarding housing and homelessness in Benton & Franklin counties written on behalf of the Benton Franklin Health District through the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Constructed using community indicator data and survey data from service providers in the region.

An Analysis of Trends in the Behavioral Health of the Residents in Benton & Franklin Counties

By Dr. Patrick Jones, Dr. Kelley Cullen, Sophia Vrieling, & Katie Gower
A data analysis report regarding the state of behavioral health and behavioral health services in Benton & Franklin counties written on behalf of the Benton Franklin Health District through the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Constructed using community indicator data and survey data from service providers in the region.

2021 Research

Analysis of Downtown Streateries for the City of Walla Walla (ongoing)

A study to investigate the growth rates in sales of downtown Walla Walla’s streateries, as compared to other downtown restaurants and all restaurants in the city.

2020 Research

A First Look at Greater Tri Cities Jobs at Risk in March & April, 2020 due the Corona Virus and Ensuing Washington State Policies

By Dr. Patrick Jones
An analysis of at-risk jobs in the Tri-Cities following the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (March & April of 2020) and Washington state COVID policies utilizing several economic data indicators.