FAYETTEVILLE — The Triangle and cities surrounding it have exploded with growth over the past couple of years. Many people move to get away from the big cities and big city problems. It all boils down to quality of life. Cumberland County officials have been studying those issues-- everything from economic growth to health care.

There is good and bad news in Cumberland County. The good news is six of the 10 red flag issues identified in last year's annual report card have shown signs of improvement. The bad news is the county is still well below the state average in many areas.

The annual report card was compiled by MetroVisions. It is geared to show the quality of life in Fayetteville and Cumberland County. The study showed that the county is getting better in the areas of violent juvenile crime, SAT scores, airport usage, highway accidents and school overcrowding.

All of the categories still show reason for concern. MetroVisions Chairman Ernest Johnson says his group has seen a real interest from the community to come together to work on the red flag issues and reverse the cycle.

There is still a lot of work to be done. Some of the red flag issues identified in this year's report card-- average annual wage, per pupil expenditure, voter participation, as well as child abuse and heart disease mortality rate.

The report card will be used to create new programs in the area from both a church, business and private citizen standpoint.