owing to concentration of agriculture, animal husbandry and dairy industries, the island has maintained the relatively rural and tranquil character. the island's fields produce various fruits, wines, grass-fed beef and dairy cattle as well as cheese and other dairy products. the construction of a commercial port and the 1980 construction of the graciosa aerodrome has retained the islands links to the archipelago while strengthening exports and importing goods and services. in addition to this, the island has benefited from infrastructural investments that have included the re-qualification of the secondary school, the construction of a new milk factory and fishing port. as well, improvements to the recreational areas in praia and refurbishment of the thermals in carapacho, the construction of a new hotel and medical center have been done in order to improve both the tourist industry and support the local community.