Recent Research
Recently Published
The most recent research published by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
What’s New in Utah’s 2020 Census Geography?
Geography is a foundational aspect of the census, providing the framework for the once-a-decade count of population and housing. The U.S. Census Bureau released Utah’s 2020 census geographic boundaries in February, with the corresponding demographic data planned for release in September 2021. Though census count data are not available yet, census geography provides insight into the decade’s population change and defines the upcoming data’s reference locations.
An Economic Analysis of Zion National Park Scenarios, 2021
Proposed developments at Zion National Park’s east entrance include the construction of a new visitor center, lodging, and hiking/biking trails along with the deployment of an electric shuttle fleet. This study analyzes the economic impacts of east park improvements on Kane and Washington counties over 10 years by comparing this high-investment scenario with a projected baseline scenario.
Ivory-Boyer Construction Report, Fourth Quarter 2020
The year 2020 was record-breaking for construction in the state of Utah. Total permitted construction value reached $11.0 billion for the year, a number that doesn’t reflect the economic challenges faced by the rest of the economy. The record-breaking year was led by a surge in residential construction activity. Residential construction value reached $6.7 billion in 2020, surpassing the previous 2006 record. Nonresidential construction value declined 3.4% from 2019 to $2.5 billion. Addition, alteration, and repair permitted values increased 31.2% from 2019 to $1.9 billion, also a record
March Newsmaker Breakfast: Federal Stimulus and its Impact on Utah
Hear from local economists and experts on the impact of federal stimulus spending on Utah.
March 2021 Utah Consumer Confidence
Our survey shows that consumer sentiment among Utahns continued to climb between February and March 2021. A similar survey by the University of Michigan concerning all Americans shows strong gains in sentiment during the same time period.
Ivory-Boyer Construction Report, Third Quarter 2020
Construction activity continued its momentum into the third quarter. Total permitted construction reached $8.01 billion for the period of January through September, a record and an increase of 9.4% from the same time period last year (Table 1). Residential construction values also set a record, increasing 10.7% from 2019 to $4.9 billion. Nonresidential construction overcame its slump in the first half of the year.
The Impact of High-Density Apartments on Surrounding Single-Family Home Values in Suburban Salt Lake County
New, dense housing continues to be a point of conflict in growing communities as concerns over negative impacts to home values dominate the discussion. This study quantifies how new apartment construction has impacted single-family home price acceleration over the last decade.
Shifting Foundations: A Contemporary History of Utah Households
Utah’s signature demographics have long distinguished its households in the national context. Long-term social, economic, and demographic trends continue to shape Utah’s households over time.
Utah’s Economically Disadvantaged Students: A review of the data and the role of education (PowerPoint)
1.Education creates greater economic opportunity; 1 in 3 Utah students experience economic hardship; Economically disadvantaged students face worse educational results; Targeted funding for economically disadvantaged students makes a difference; Utah’s long-term future improves for everyone.
Utah’s Economically Disadvantaged Students: A review of the data and the role of education
Many Utah children face economic hardship leading to significantly worse educational results. Targeted funding for this population can improve academic achievement, enhance economic outcomes, provide a multitude of societal benefits, and ensure Utah's future success.
