Volusia County has selected TPMA to spearhead the strategic planning process for its Environmental, Cultural, Historical, and Outdoor Recreational (ECHO) program. The initiative is essential for preserving the county’s natural and cultural resources while fostering exceptional recreational opportunities. The strategic plan will serve as a blueprint for the program’s growth and resource allocation through 2040, with a sharp focus on sustainability, community impact, and long-term success.
“We are honored to partner with Volusia County on this important initiative,” said Zachary Rice, Director and Project Lead for TPMA. “The ECHO program plays a vital role in the community, and we are committed to developing a strategic roadmap that will guide its continued success for decades to come. Our team’s deep experience in strategic planning, combined with our data-driven approach, will ensure the final plan is both visionary and practical.”
TPMA will take a comprehensive, multi-phased approach starting with a detailed assessment of the program’s current state. The process will include extensive engagement with community stakeholders through interviews and surveys to ensure the plan reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of residents. Leveraging a design-thinking methodology, TPMA will identify best practices and develop a forward-thinking, actionable strategy.
Dr. Brad Burbaugh, Volusia County Community Services Director, added, “I am confident TPMA’s experience will help us develop a grassroots-informed strategic plan that maximizes taxpayer value and preserves our ‘good life’ investments through ECHO. Working with TPMA will ensure these community assets continue to make Volusia County a special place to live.”
The finalized strategic plan will feature a comprehensive vision for 2040, measurable goals, implementation timelines, resource allocation recommendations, and a progress monitoring framework. Deliverables will include an executive summary, presentation materials, and practical implementation guides.
Next Steps
This initiative marks the beginning of an ambitious effort to enhance the ECHO program. Additional updates on process improvements and marketing strategies will be shared in the coming months. Community participation will be central to this effort, and residents are encouraged to take part in upcoming engagement opportunities.
For more information, please contact Dr. Brad Burbaugh, Volusia County Community Services Director, at bburbaugh@volusia.org.
About Volusia County’s ECHO Program
Volusia ECHO is a citizen-driven initiative that funds environmental, cultural, historical, and outdoor recreation projects through a voter-approved referendum. ECHO strives to enhance quality of life by preserving resources, promoting heritage tourism, and providing recreational opportunities. Learn more at Volusia ECHO.