NWCCOG was the fastest growing region in the state from 1990-2000, with an overall 73% population growth. Over 70% of the skier visits in the state occur in this area. A tourism based economy dominates the region which includes a strong second home market and high real estate values. In 2002, the Town of Vail, on behalf of towns and counties in the NWCCOG region, received a Colorado Heritage Grant from the Colorado Office of Smart Growth to study the social and economic effects of second homes. A steering committee for the project was established with representatives from NWCCOG member towns and counties. This report was published in 2004.