A survey of more than a quarter of the households in Cranberry paints a picture of a community pleased with where it stands as well as the direction in which it's going.

"It has validated that township residents are happy,'' said John Trant Jr., chief strategic planning officer for the township.

The first-ever survey polled 3,000 households selected randomly. It produced a response rate of more than 50 percent, with 1,510 households returning the survey.

.The survey was conducted in partnership with the Professional Services National Research Center of Boulder, Colo. It began in January. The company was paid $7,500.

Mr. Trant said the survey had "no surprises."

Residents want less traffic congestion and more cultural opportunities, efforts that are in the forefront of the township's ongoing planning, Mr. Trant said.

"The survey gives us an excellent base to plan on,'' he said.

The following are some summaries of survey responses:

• Cranberry residents chose to live in the township for its easy access to amenities and to the workplace, 39 percent; because their dollars go farther, 36 percent; and for the township's community feel, 21 percent.

• Eighty-nine percent of respondents ranked the overall quality of life as good or excellent, 92 percent said it is an excellent or good place to live, 87 percent said the same for raising children; 79 percent said the same for working there; and 46 percent said it is excellent or good for retiring.

Mr. Trant said township officials believe the 46 percent rating regarding Cranberry as a retirement community could go up if Cranberry is successful at attracting more opportunities for senior housing and for more walkable neighborhoods.

• Respondents said they feel safe in the township neighborhoods during the day and at night, 97 percent and 89 percent; and 88 percent rated the police and 93 percent rated the fire department as excellent or good.

The top 10 reasons to live in Cranberry, in order are: overall image and reputation, appearance of the township, sense of community, recreational opportunities, education opportunities, welcoming toward people of diverse backgrounds, job opportunities, quality of new development, shopping opportunities, and opportunities to attend cultural events.