Connecting Point works with public agencies, community partners, and regional stakeholders to explore emerging community needs and evaluate potential solutions before moving into implementation.
Our feasibility studies bring together research, data, community input, existing service models, funding considerations, and operational analysis to answer an important question: Is there a practical and sustainable path forward?
These studies are designed to support informed decision-making. A feasibility study does not necessarily mean that a new program or project will be implemented. Instead, it provides partners and communities with a clearer understanding of the need, opportunities, challenges, costs, and considerations associated with moving an idea forward.
Explore Our Feasibility Studies
Explore research examining opportunities to strengthen services, resources, and communities across our region.
Nevada County Volunteer Transportation Study
Expanding access, independence, and community connection for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
In partnership with Agency on Aging Area 4, Connecting Point evaluated the feasibility of developing a volunteer-based transportation program in Nevada County. The study examined existing transportation resources, community needs and service gaps, successful program models, operational requirements, and potential funding opportunities.
The study found significant unmet need for transportation beyond medical appointments, including trips to grocery stores, pharmacies, essential errands, social activities, and other destinations that help people remain independent and connected to their communities.
The final recommendation is a Hybrid Volunteer Transportation Model that combines rider-selected trusted drivers with a supplemental network of screened community volunteers.
Biomass Recycling-to-
Energy Feasibility
Study
Exploring a regional approach to agricultural biomass, renewable energy, and economic resilience.
Connecting Point commissioned a regional feasibility study examining whether agricultural residues across Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, and Yolo Counties could support a small-scale biomass recycling-to-energy project. The study evaluates feedstock, technology, economics, infrastructure, transportation, workforce, land use, regulatory considerations, and community alignment.
The study found that a small-scale agricultural biomass recycling-to-energy project is conditionally feasible and warrants further exploration through a project-specific pre-development phase. It does not recommend moving directly to construction; additional work would be needed to identify a site, confirm feedstock commitments, develop project-specific financial assumptions, and evaluate utility and permitting requirements.