Virginia�s New River Valley

Strategic Plan

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

INTRODUCTION

ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT

VISION 2020 - UPDATED MAY 2000

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

NATURAL AND CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

REPORT ON PREVIOUS YEAR�S ACTIVITIES

Completed/Funded Projects

Continuing Projects

Evaluation

ANNUAL PROJECT PACKAGE REPORT

Project Evaluation Criteria - Revised May 2000

Prioritization of Programs and Activities

Economic Development

Education and Training

Health and Human Development

Natural and Cultural

Physical Infrastructure

New River Valley Annual Project Package Report

New River Valley Annual Project Package Report in TIME ORDER

APPENDIX I

Minutes of the New River Valley Planning District Commission

APPENDIX II

CEDS Committee Membership

APPENDIX III

Letters/Resolutions from Localities (only available in hard copy)

This annual report of the New River Valley Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) seeks to respond to the reporting requirements of the Economic Development Administration, and also respond to the deficiencies that were noted in the original CEDS Review and Critique.

The New River Valley Planning District Commission (PDC) continues to serve as the lead committee for all planning and economic development efforts in the New River Valley region. However, it works closely with three regional groups that take leading roles in pursuing economic development projects and funding to advance the quality of life in the New River Valley: the American Heritage River, New River Valley, Virginia; the Regional Competitiveness Partnership; and Managing Information in Rural America (MIRA).

This spring, memoranda were sent to all the localities that participate in the New River Valley Planning District Commission (PDC), and to members of the American Heritage River and MIRA organizations. Each was asked to submit a list of projects that they were working on or considering. Then each group met to review the status of current projects, and plan for the future. Staff at the PDC compiled the information for this report. The approved minutes of the PDC meetings that were related to the CEDS are attached in Appendix I.

In addition to considering projects, the PDC also reviewed and updated the goals and objectives, and the project evaluation criteria. The updated goals are on the following pages, and the revised evaluation criteria are included in the Annual Project Package Report Section.

There have been some changes in staff to the CEDS Committee. David Rundgren continues as the Executive Director of the Planning District Commission. Greg Zody, Lydeana Martin, Lesley Howard and Holly Lesko compiled the original CEDS document with the guidance, support and approval of the CEDS Committee and the regional groups mentioned above. This year, Lesley Howard and Holly Lesko continued their work primarily as liaison with the American Heritage River and Grassroots Development (MIRA) groups, while Lydeana Martin and Cindy Miller prepared the report.

A list and description of the current CEDS Committee membership, and current letters/resolutions from each of the localities that has participated in and supported the planning process are also attached in Appendices II and III.

Strategy: Organize creative financing programs and improve entrepreneurs' access to risk capital.

Strategy: Strengthen the New River Valley SBDC's capacity to assist in the creation of new businesses that are competitive locally, nationally, and globally.

Strategy: Support the development of business incubators, and the facilities/services they offer to new businesses.

Strategy: Provide professional, technical, and educational assistance to businesses.

Strategy: Organize creative financing programs and improve entrepreneurs' access to risk capital.

Strategy: Locate, develop, and market appropriate facilities for entrepreneurial ventures.

Strategy: Provide alternate educational opportunities and support to encourage self-employment.

Strategy: Encourage and acknowledge entrepreneurial efforts in established local industries and businesses.

Strategy: Identify unique natural and cultural locations and events in the region.

Strategy: Cooperatively market and coordinate scheduling of local attractions to best utilize resources and identify the New River Valley as a tourism destination.

Strategy: Develop a rural heritage-based business incubator to support the development of arts, crafts and related businesses.

Strategy: Encourage the use of locally developed technology in manufacturing and other industry.

Strategy: Support the development of E-commerce and business-to-business ventures.

Strategy: Recruit environmentally responsible companies.

Strategy: Use land use controls and utility availability to direct business to appropriate locations.

Strategy: Develop and promote microbusiness opportunities for recycled materials to enhance local utilization of recycled materials.

Strategy: Market the region's existing industrial, technology, and research space.

Strategy: Seek regional certification through the Virginia Community Certification Program and market the region's assets to prospective industries.

Strategy: Pursue a multi-regional marketing campaign involving the New River Valley Economic Development Alliance, New River Valley Visitors Alliance, and Chamber of Commerce Coalition.

Strategy: Enhance the diversity of the region's shopping opportunities.

Strategy: Improve the competitiveness of downtown business districts.

Strategy: Provide instructional opportunities for hospitality employees.

Strategy: Improve the region's ability to provide basic travel information to visitors.

Strategy: Encourage the development of appropriate hospitality businesses in strategic areas with high tourist traffic.

Strategy: Increase the region's tourism readiness and marketing capacity.

Strategy: Seek inter-regional partnerships with other Virginia communities, West Virginia, and North Carolina to enhance the region's chances of becoming a tourism destination.

Strategy: Lengthen visitors� stays to the New River Valley.

Strategy: Increase the display, performance, and sale of all crafts, food and drink, art, and other goods made by local residents.

Strategy: Organize events that display the special qualities and lifestyles of Virginia's Southwest.

Strategy: Pursue a targeted industry approach to industry recruitment.

Strategy: Recruit outside firms seeking a trained and skilled labor force, low utility costs, high quality industrial space, and convenient highway access.

Strategy: Recruit outside firms that currently have significant vendor relationships with New River Valley companies.

Strategy: Designate a regional delegation to lobby the Virginia General Assembly for support.

Strategy: Encourage local governments to take a more pro-active approach to economic development.

Strategy: Provide creative public incentives to encourage private investment.

Strategy: Use multi-media technologies in the classroom to share instructional delivery and access to information throughout the region.

Strategy: Allocate resources equitably to ensure that students from all economic and basic skill groups in school are prepared, encouraged, and ready to learn.

Strategy: Encourage students, parents, teachers, and administrators to develop shared solutions for problems.

Strategy: Support efforts to respond to issues related to racial or cultural differences or perceived differences. (e.g., the Diversity Forum)

Strategy: Realign local resources into early childhood development programs (i.e., Head Start and Even Start).

Strategy: Identify and address potential barriers and opportunities for learning through need and ability screening (e.g., learning disabilities, medical problems, nutritional deficiencies, high aptitude areas, student defined learning aids, etc.).

Strategy: Achieve a crime-free and drug-free environment in our schools.

Strategy: Encourage all students to achieve and excel according to their abilities.

Strategy: Educate voters and elected officials regarding the roles and duties of school boards in the New River Valley.

Strategy: Use local public access TV, print media, and other approaches to promote school needs and accomplishments and the importance of education.

Strategy: Provide students with more "real world" learning opportunities in order to prepare them to compete in a global economy.

Strategy: Expand mentoring and "shadow" programs.

Strategy: Establish partnerships between industry/business and schools to promote the importance of skill development and inform educators of the skills needed (e.g., Work Keys)

Strategy: Seek a closer partnership between industry leaders and educators to design traditional and vocational programs.

Strategy: Expand programs to teach basic literacy skills.

Strategy: Offer more on-site training opportunities to local businesses and industries.

Strategy: Train managers and workers to meet the current and future challenges of a competitive marketplace.

Strategy: Expand existing corporate training and professional development programs.

Strategy: Develop a "one stop career shop" based on the economic opportunities of the region and geared to providing skills and assistance necessary to compete in the global marketplace.

Strategy: Foster interagency cooperation in the delivery of services to assist residents with training and employment opportunities.

Strategy: Implement a program to prepare secondary school students for technical careers that will support the recruitment of high technology industries to the New River Valley.

Strategy: Link local industries with technology and research capabilities of Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

Strategy: Market the region's specialty skill base (e.g., tool and die operators and engineers) to prospective industries.

The New River Valley provides opportunities for families and individuals to achieve their potential.

Strategy: Improve the region's preparedness and ability to respond to natural crisis and man-made emergencies.

Strategy: Reduce police, fire, and Emergency Medical Service response times throughout the New River Valley.

NATURAL AND CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

The New River Valley is an attractive and desirable place to live, work, and visit.

Strategy: Design and market a series of travel packages for different recreational consumers.

Strategy: Institute measures to protect critical areas from inappropriate development.

Strategy: Inventory cultural sites and artisan shops, and establish loop trails off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Strategy: Develop nature-based recreational opportunities, including a system of trails for hiking and biking.

Strategy: Identify and publicize appropriate recreational opportunities around the region.

Strategy: Adopt and practice sound land use planning and utility development to preserve the region's rural character.

Strategy: Encourage the development of recreational amenities in conjunction with all development throughout the region.

Strategy: Adopt open space planning techniques in each jurisdiction to ensure that critical or high risk areas are protected from inappropriate development.

Strategy: Collaborate with regional and state land trusts to educate landowners regarding voluntary easements.

Strategy: Continue public awareness of benefits and needs for recycling.

Strategy: Develop convenient means to recycle throughout the New River Valley.

Strategy: Promote the enhancement of educational and cultural amenities.

Strategy: Cooperatively market regional events.

Strategy: Identify, develop, and package the region's inventory of historical, cultural, natural features, and events and market to outside markets.

Strategy: Examine opportunities to attract travelers from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Strategy: Create and support a regional tourism agency/organization to promote the New River Valley as a whole in partnership with each locality and other regional promotion organizations.

Strategy: Seek the commitment of government and private interests to improve the capacity, efficiency, and condition of the regional transportation network.

Strategy: Increase the capacity and utilization of existing air service facilities in the New River Valley.

Strategy: Identify necessary road, rail, and air transportation improvements.

Strategy: Interconnect water and sewer systems regionally where possible to improve reliability and safety.

Strategy: Examine the potential of the New River as an alternative source of water for communities using springs and wells.

Strategy: Encourage AEP to build redundancy in electrical service to eliminate blackout/brownouts.

Strategy: Encourage the development and updating of Capital Improvement Plans (CIP).

Strategy: Seek creative and alternative funding sources for eligible capital improvement projects.

Strategy: Seek creative and cooperative regional financing strategies for major infrastructure needs.

Strategy: Pursue plans to expand the "Electronic Village" concept.

Strategy: Promote the expansion and use of the "Electronic Classroom" at Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

Strategy: Pursue direct electronic links to marketing information and market sources for advancing the region.

Strategy: Establish a regional communications program for marketing and other outreach programs.

Strategy: Reduce the amount of waste added to the waste stream.

Strategy: Seek inter-and intra-regional cooperation regarding the disposal of regional solid waste.

Strategy: Pursue markets for recycled and reused products.

Strategy: Adopt creative development approaches to encourage the creation of affordable housing.

Strategy: Determine appropriate and cost-effective means for providing shelter for all residents.

Strategy: Identify, evaluate, and negotiate the acquisition and/or reserved use of industrial and business property within the region.

Strategy: Develop regional properties tailored to the needs of targeted industries

Many of the projects in last year�s project package were long term projects, and will be included again this year. The first part of this section will discuss projects that are being eliminated from the new project package either because they have been completed, or they are funded, with implementation underway or to begin soon. The second part describes projects that are making progress, but need additional funding, and will remain on the new list.

Continuing Projects

Evaluation

There has been considerable development in the New River Valley this year. Of the 35 projects in this year�s project package, seven (20%) are either completed, or are funded for completion. At least eleven more are making progress toward their goals. Some have achieved funding to accomplish certain phases of the project. Others have submitted proposals for funding.

Some of the projects, such as the Foreign Trade Zone, Commerce Park, and Technology Magnet School have an impact on the entire New River Valley and beyond, while others have a more local effect. While many of the projects support the goals of the Economic Development key area as described in the Vision Statement and Goals, each of the other key areas, with the exception of Health and Human Development, is supported by at least one of the projects.

Even though considerable progress has been made on this year�s projects, work will continue, and new projects have been added to the list. These are described in the next section of this report.

As stated in the Organization and Management section of this report, the PDC Board members reviewed and updated the project evaluation criteria.

Project Evaluation Criteria - Revised May 2000

The "Project Evaluation Criteria" are designed to allow the Planning District Commission to make rational judgments as to the relative value of various project proposals. The proposed projects should be aimed at encouraging private investments in economic development or activities to support such developments. The first step in developing the criteria included a review of the stated goals and objectives. In addition, the Planning District Commission has established priority ratings for various project types as required by the Commonwealth of Virginia in its administration of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, the CDBG management agency, has identified 30 project types as eligible for CDBG financing. These project types have been placed into four priority levels by the Planning District Commission and serve as the project type portion of the criteria.

Having established a relative importance of the specific types of projects to the district, criteria were developed to rank individual projects. The criteria include:

Additional criteria include credit if the project is related directly to energy conservation or development, if the project is mandated by the courts, or if it addresses an emergency need or an eminent threat to public health or safety. The project evaluation criteria follow.

PROJECT TYPE*

1. Growth Area Relationship: The location of a project is significant in relation to an identified area of growth within the Planning District.

Points

4 A. Located Within the Economic Development Center

3 B. Located Within a Growth Area

2 C. Located Within a Rural Service Center

1 D. Located Outside the Above Identified Areas

2. Regional Significance: The significance of a project is in relation to the number of jurisdictions participating in reference to services and money invested.

Points

4 A. Four or More Jurisdictions Participating

3 B. Three Jurisdictions Participating

2 C. Two Jurisdictions Participating

1 D. One Jurisdiction Participating

3. Relationship to Local (Adopted) Comprehensive Plan: The relationship to the LCP is determined from stated goals and objectives which serve as the standard of measure (in the case of multi-jurisdictional projects, project must relate to goals or objectives of at least one LCP).

Points

5 A. Project Relates Directly to Two or More Community Goals or Objectives

3 B. Project Relates Directly to One Community Goal or Objective

1 C. Project Relates Indirectly to One or More Community Goal or Objective

0 D. Project Does not Relate to any Community Goal or Objective

4. Per Capita Income: Utilizing the latest available data, per capita income will be used in evaluating project significance. City-County/Town rank will be utilized, while in cases of multiple jurisdictions, the average rank will be determined.

Points

3 A. If less than or equal to 60% of State per capita income

2 B. If 61 - 74% of State per capita income

1 C. If 75 - 99% of State per capita income

0 D. If greater than or equal to the State per capita income

5. Unemployment Rate: Utilizing the latest annual average figures available, unemployment rates will be used in evaluating project significance. City-County/Town will be utilized, while in cases of multiple jurisdictions, the average rank will be determined.

Points

3 A. If 50% or more above State average

2 B. If 25 - 49% above State average

1 C. If 1 - 24% above State average

0 D. If equal to or below State average

6. Relative Jurisdictional Stress: A composite index prepared by the Commission on Local Government to compare the relative strengths of the jurisdictions in the State.

Points

2 A. High stress

1 B. Above average stress

0 C. Below average stress

7. Relationship to Private Investments: Capital investments from private sources relate to the significance of the project.

Points

5 A. Direct Private Capital Investment

3 B. Direct Relationship to Private Capital Investment

2 C. Indirect Relationship to Private Capital Investment

1 D. Minimal Indirect Relationship to Private Capital Investment

8. Relationship to Previous Investment

Points

2 A. New Service or Facility; Expansion of Service from an Existing Service

1 B. Replacement of Existing Service or Facility

9. Readiness to Initiate Project

Points

5 A. Jurisdictional Commitment and Final Plans and Specifications

4 B. Jurisdictional Commitment - Preliminary Plans and Specifications

2 C. Jurisdictional Commitment, but no Plans and Specifications

1 D. No Jurisdictional Commitment, but Preliminary Plans and Specifications

0 E. No Jurisdictional Commitment and no Plans and Specifications

10. Energy Conservation or Development Related Projects

Points

3

11. Emergency Need as Identified by the Governor

Points

3

12. Eminent Threat to Public Health or Safety as Identified by the Governor

Points

3

13. Mandated Projects

Points

1

In addition, the environmental impact of each project will be evaluated on a project by project basis.

Prioritization of Programs and Activities

This section of the report outlines the projects that are required to implement the goals, objectives and strategies for the continued economic development of the New River Valley. General projects are included, as well as the prioritized projects which follow.

These projects comprise an economic development approach that links directly into the original Vision 2020 goal of having "an optimum level of employment; an income level equal to or better than the state�s average; and a beneficial living environment." 

Economic Development

The arena of economic development showcases the New River Valley's approach to creating a sustainable, diverse local economy that is also globally competitive. Those projects in bold print are included in the prioritized Action Plan that follows this section.

Project title and description                                                                                        Total Dollars

Beautification of Radford's Riverbank:                                                                    $75,000
Clean up and provide landscaping for the riverbank in Radford.

Communications Center:                                                                                        $60,000
Purchase telecommunications equipment to make the New River Valley
Competitiveness Center a world-class telecommunications center.

Floyd Commerce Center Development:                                                                $950,000
Site development

Marketing for Local Food & Lodging Establishments:                                          $50,000
Assist local establishments in reclaiming a portion of the market for their services.

New River Business Center:                                                                                 $2,000,000
Development of a multi-use facility including childcare, banking, food court,
and business support services.

NRV Airport Improvements (2005):                                                                     $7,000,000
Improve the NRV Airport

NRV Commerce Park:                                                                                           $6,405,000
Acquire and develop approximately 1,000 acres as regional industrial park
owned by Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facility Authority.

Niche Farming:                                                                                                       $40,000
Agri-tourism for a regional community of farmers

Radford Corporate Center East:                                                                          $500,000
Establish office suites on the east side of Radford

River Access Points:                                                                                              $45,000
Develop canoe camping spots along the New River that are water accessible only.

Sustainable Agriculture:                                                                                          $75,000
Provide an outlet for locally-produced dairy products.

New River Valley Welcome Center:                                                                     $150,000
Establish a physical office space and permanent staff for the NRV
Welcome Center.

Glen Lyn Coal By-products Recycling Study:                                                      $15,000
Determine uses for the by-products of the American Electric Power plant.
 

Education & Training

In the area of Education and Training, the NRV has reached the critical point of needing to support significant workforce development, as unemployment rates are relatively low. While this is an enviable position in some respects, in other ways it represents us with a larger challenge than ever before: providing a high-quality workforce to area businesses and industries who are in global competition for markets and labor. Projects in bold are in the Action Plan that follows.

Project title and description                                                                                      Total Dollars

Citizens' Water Atlas:                                                                                             $35,000
Develop a database for water resources, including threats in the watershed.

Grassroots Leadership Development:                                                                 $30,000
Develop and sustain a network of grassroots leaders, providing training and
support as opportunities for participation in civic activities.

Human Resources Managers' Roundtable:                                                             $20,000
A coalition of HR Managers identifying solutions to employer needs.

New River Educational Curriculum Materials:                                                      $50,000
Coordinate a group to outline and develop curriculum materials.

New River Interpretive Trail Guidebooks:                                                             $50,000
Complete the guidebooks project begun by New River Community Partners.

New River Research and Outreach Coalition:                                                        $25,000
Establish a teaching and learning center and coordinate an interdisciplinary group
of faculty, staff, students, agency personal and citizens to gather and share
information about the natural and cultural history of the NRV watershed.

Save Our Streams Water Quality Monitoring & Education:                                  $25,000
Provide training, data review, reports, QA/QC, siting, teacher workshops,
management, and volunteer coordination for the SOS programs in the NRV area.

Technology Magnet School:                                                                                  $8,000,000
Designed to develop a specialized workforce in the NRV by providing advanced
technology education to secondary schools. Federal funds will be used
to purchase training equipment.

Training Models:                                                                                                     $45,000
Create models and disseminate resources for teaching and learning about
the New River and its surroundings.

Virginia Tech Appalachian Studies Education & Training:                                    $55,000
Develop education/training initiatives to foster learning about New River resources.

Health & Human Development

Health and human development put a personal face on the region's approach to supporting its
citizens. Projects in bold are in the Action Plan that follows.

Project title and description                                                                                       Total Dollars

Daycare run by Teens:                                                                                            $5,000

Imagine: Theater for Youth                                                                                     $50,000

Welfare Reform:                                                                                                      $75,000
A regional effort to address the welfare-to-work strategy.

Addition to Radford Public Library:                                                                      $390,000
Additional space to include a youth room, genealogy center, and
technology center

The Natural and Cultural projects represent the importance our citizens place on the often
intangible aspects of quality of life that can make a place one that people are proud to call home. Projects in bold are in the Action Plan that follows.

Project title and description                                                                                        Total Dollars

Adopt-a-Stream:                                                                                                       $25,000
Support for state-run program

Arnheim House Preservation:                                                                                   $40,000
Preserve the historic Arnheim House.

Baseline Wildlife & Habitat Inventory:                                                                     $100,000
build baseline landscape-level wildlife species and habitat inventory for the greater New River watershed.

Christiansburg Institute:                                                                                          $75,000
The Black Educational Experience, Cultural Learning Curriculum, Oral History,
and Site preservation.

Coal Miners Park:                                                                                                     $50,000
Develop park, recreation area adjacent to the Huckleberry Trail in the Merrimac
area of Montgomery County.

Compliance Study of Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices:                      $30,000
Examine compliance rates of erosion/sedimentation control practices.

Covered Bridge Restoration in Newport:                                                                  $150,000
Restoration and preservation of 1916 covered bridge.

New River Craft Heritage Trails:                                                                            $55,000
Creating single and multi-day trips to natural and cultural sites in the region.

Erosion Control:                                                                                                         $75,000
Educate landowners on erosion control and restore eroded areas.

Maple Shade Museum Complex:                                                                             $4,000,000
Develop an art/history museum complex in downtown Pulaski.

Narrows Annual Fall Festival                                                                                    $5,000

Native American Sites:                                                                                               $25,000    
Document and catalog Native American sites, lands and trails.

New River Valley Land Trust:                                                                                     $20,000
Establish land trust for voluntary land donations and easements.

Traditional Mountain Square Dance:                                                                          $5,000
Support of traditional mountain dance.

Whitt-Riverbend Park:
Land acquisition                                                                                                             $124,650
Development                                                                                                                 $1,000,000
Eighty-five acre park with 1.75 miles frontage on Walker Creek and the New River.

Wildwood Park Revitalization:                                                                                   $550,000
Implement proposed park rehabilitation (partial funding in place).

New River Valley River Project:                                                                                $800,000
Provide for comprehensive and cohesive education, recreation and
eco-tourism network of trails, camping, etc. along the New River

Physical Infrastructure

A sound physical infrastructure is the base on which all other projects are built. These projects
represent a broad range of both local and regional efforts. Projects in bold are in the Action Plan
that follows.

Project title and description                                                                                           Total Dollars

Bikeway Network:                                                                                                        $300,000
Plan and create a network of bikeways through the NRV that connects towns,
scenic areas and historic areas.

Blacksburg Major Street Improvements                                                                   $1,226,000

Christiansburg Institute Site Development:                                                              $250,000
Site work for the preservation of the Christiansburg Institute.

New River Trail Extension:                                                                                        $250,000
Extend trail into Pulaski.

Solitude Renovation Completion:
Renovate Solitude, Virginia Tech's oldest building into an Appalachian Center.

Expansion of the New River Valley Competitiveness Center:                                 $3,350,000
20,000 s.f. addition to mixed use incubator space.

Floyd Commerce Center Exterior Roads:                                                                  $400,000
Develop roads to the entrance of the Floyd Commerce Center.

Floyd Incubator/Shell building:                                                                                    $700,000
Develop building in new Floyd Regional Commerce Center.

Ingram Village Infrastructure:                                                                                    $1,500,000
Put in water/sewer lines.

Intermodal Transportation Center:                                                                             $8,000,000
Further explore the possibility of developing an intermodal transportation site
on under-utilized US Army property near Dublin, Virginia.

Link Road Dublin to Blacksburg                                                                                 $34,000,000

Mary Draper Ingles Trail:                                                                                              $75,000
Multi-use trail following approximate route of Mary Draper Ingles.

New River Bridge at Industrial Park (2005)                                                                $11,000,000

Radford Army Ammunition Plant Infrastructure Improvements:                               $500,000
Water, sewer, and rail upgrades at the New River site.

Regional Conference Center on the New River at Radford:                                      $50,000,000
Determine feasibility and appropriate site for regional conference center, probably
adjacent to new golf course and Radford University.

Route 8 Improvements, South:                                                                                     $1,500,000
Road Improvements on Route 8 southbound from Montgomery toward Floyd.

Jacksonville Center Rural Cultural Business Incubator:                                            $500,000
A rural culture and marketing center to provide artisan work space and retailing
space, as well as office area and training and performance areas.

American Heritage River Signs on Interstate 81:                                                        $7,500
Signs at Radford Exit 105 promoting the New River as an American Heritage River (both north- and south-bound lanes).

Glen Lyn Industrial Park Infrastructure                                                                       $125,000

Southwest Virginia Multi-modal Transportation Plan Study                                        $5,000
To be conducted by the Virginia Tech Institute for Policy Outreach. Will look at all major modes of transportation including roads, trains and planes.

Bluff City Comprehensive Improvements                                                                     $1,650,000

Pearisburg Fire Department                                                                                           $500,000

Pulaski County Mobile Home Park Infrastructure Improvements:                             $700,000
To provide water and sewer.

Rock Road Improvements:                                                                                             $300,000 Improvements to arterial roadway in Radford.

New River Valley Park and Ride Study                                                                         $4,000

Pearisburg Town Shop                                                                                                     $350,000

Pearisburg Sewer Plant Upgrade                                                                                    $1,000,000

Yellow Sulphur Springs Infrastructure Improvements:                                                  $700,000
To provide water and sewer.

Town of Pulaski Water System Improvements                                                               $2,100,000

Dora Highway Flood Project - Phase I:                                                                           $500,000
To relocate people out of flood plain in Town of Pulaski.

Henson Avenue Improvements                                                                                        $1,195,000

New River Valley Annual Project Package Report

New River Valley Annual Project Package Report in TIME ORDER

APPENDIX I

Minutes of the New River Valley Planning District Commission

Motion: Dr. Moore moved to proceed with the necessary steps to increase the Commission=s membership to include Radford University, Virginia Tech, the towns of Pearisburg, Rich Creek, and Narrows.  Dr. Randolph seconded the motion.

              00-15

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that these projects be found not to be in conflict with regional
plans, policies, or goals. Mr. Weaver seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

B.           Environmental Project Review

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions on the following projects:

1.    Art Laboratory - Radford University

2.    New Bookstore - Radford University

3.    Timber Stand Improvement for 321 Acres in Mont./Giles/Craig Counties, and Monroe West Virginia - Blacksburg/Wythe Ranger District

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that these projects be found not to be in conflict with regional plans, policies, or goals. Mr. Weaver seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

There being no further business, it was a consensus that the meeting be adjourned.

Thomas L. Starnes, Chairman

New River Valley Planning District Commission

00-16

NEW RIVER VALLEY PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION

Minutes of the Commission Meeting

held on December 16, 1999

New River Valley Competitiveness Center, Fairlawn 7:30 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL

Chairman Starnes called the meeting to order with 14 members present.

PRESENT: Mr. T. Starnes, Chairman, Radford; Mr. S. Weaver, Treasurer, Town of Christiansburg; Mr. G. Gentry, City of Radford; Mr. F. Gerald, Floyd County; Dr. H. Harvey, City of Radford; Mrs. E. Janney, Floyd County; Dr. A.T. Leighton, Town of Blacksburg; Mr. L. Light, Giles County; Dr. J. Moore, Montgomery County; Mr. J. Morgan, Pulaski County; Mrs. A. Perkins, Montgomery County; Mr. J. Sheffey, Pulaski County; Mr. C. Stewart, Town of Pulaski; and Mr. B. Stipes, Town of Christiansburg..

ABSENT: Mr. B. Freeman, Giles County; Mr. J. Randolph, Town of Blacksburg; and Mr. J. Weddle, Town of Pulaski.

II. APPROVAL OF OCTOBER MINUTES

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions or additions to the October minutes.

Mrs. Perkins noted that the "s" was missing from Mrs. in front of her name in the Present list.

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that the October minutes be approved with the spelling correction. Dr. Moore seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

III. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT

A. Setting of Local Assessment

Mr. Starnes stated that the Executive Committee met and discussed the setting of the local assessment rate for FY 00-01. In earlier Commission meeting discussions of expanding the Commission, the issue of under-funding of the Commission was discussed. At that time there was a feeling that the assessment should be 75 cents per capita. After discussing several per capita rates, the Executive Committee recommends that the rate be set at 68 cents per capita. Mr. Weaver stated that since the ARC and EDA matching rates have gone up, it gets harder to meet the matching requirements.

Motion: Dr. Moore moved for approval of the Executive Committee's recommendation of setting the per capita rate at 68 cents per capita for FY 00-01. Mrs. Perkins seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

00-17

B. Amendment to the PDC Charter and Bylaws and the State Code

Mr. Starnes stated that the Executive Committee considered approaches to implementing changes to the Charter and Bylaws as well as the State Code. The suggested changes in the Charter and Bylaws are emphasized by strikeout wording replaced by bolded wording. The State Code additional wording is bolded. Mr. Rundgren has spoke with State officials who agree that this is the appropriate wording for this type of change.

Dr. Harvey stated that she was confused with the change from "participating jurisdictions" to "members". She felt that "participating" should not be deleted; it should read "participating members".

Dr. Moore asked if the next step is to send on to General Assembly. Mr. Starnes stated that local governments would need to approve first.

Motion: Mr. Weaver moved to accept the changes to the Charter and Bylaws along with the recommendation to leave in "participating", and to accept the inclusion in the State Code of the sentence referring to .... "representatives of higher education". Mr. Stewart seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

IV. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

The Chair had nothing to report.

V. REVIEW OF MUTUAL CONCERNS AND COMMISSIONER'S REPORTS

There were no Commissioner's reports.

VI. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR OCTOBER

Mr. Weaver presented the Treasurer's Report for October. He asked if there were any questions or additions to the Report.

Motion: Dr. Leighton moved that the Treasurer's Report be approved as presented. Dr. Harvey seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

VII. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

No report (Mr. Rundgren was absent from meeting)

VIII. PUBLIC ADDRESS

Mr. Starnes stated that there was no one in the audience to address an agenda item.

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IX. OLD BUSINESS

There was none.

X. NEW BUSINESS

A. Approval of FY 98-99 Audit

Mr. Starnes stated that Commissioners received the Audit in their packet. He asked if there were any questions.

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that the FY 98-99 Audit be accepted. Mr. Gerald seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

B. Appointment of Joe Gorman to the New River-Highlands Resource & Conservation District

Mr. Starnes stated that Mr. Gorman agreed to serve as the Commission's representative on the NR-H RC&D if appointed.

Motion: Dr. Moore moved to appoint Joe Gorman as the Commission's representative. Mr. Sheffey seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

XI. COMMONWEALTH INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS

A. Continuation or Renewal Projects (Signed-off by the staff)

There were none.

B. Regular Project Review

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions on the following projects.

1. Melissa's Knitting, Riley's Cab and Delivery Co., & C&M Designs

2. Housing Construction and Renovation Youth Training

3. Regional Development Venture Capital Fund

Motion: Mr. Gerald moved that these projects be found not in conflict with regional plans, policies, or goals. Mr. Light seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

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B. Environmental Project Review

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions on the following projects:

1. Replace Existing Bridge on Route 648 in Montgomery County

Motion: Mr. Gerald moved that these projects be found not in conflict with regional plans, policies, or goals. Mr. Light seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

There being no further business, it was a consensus that the meeting be adjourned.

Thomas L. Starnes, Chairman

New River Valley Planning District Commission  

00-25

NEW RIVER VALLEY PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION

Minutes of the Commission Meeting

held on February 24, 2000

New River Valley Competitiveness Center, Fairlawn, 7:30 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL

Chairman Starnes called the meeting to order with 12 members present.

PRESENT: Mr. T. Starnes, Chairman, Radford; Mr. G. Gentry, City of Radford; Mr. F. Gerald, Floyd County; Dr. H. Harvey, City of Radford; Mrs. E. Janney, Floyd County; Mr. L. Light, Giles County; Mr. J. Randolph, Town of Blacksburg; Mr. J. Sheffey, Pulaski County; Mr. H. Spencer, Giles County; Mr. C. Stewart, Town of Pulaski; and Mr. B. Stipes, Town of Christiansburg; Mr. J. Weddle, Town of Pulaski.

ABSENT: Dr. A.T. Leighton, Town of Blacksburg; Dr. J. Moore, Montgomery County; Mr. J. Morgan, Pulaski County; Mrs. A. Perkins, Montgomery County; Mr. S. Weaver, Town of Christiansburg.

II. APPROVAL OF JANUARY MINUTES

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions or additions to the January minutes.

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that the January minutes be approved as presented. Mr. Randolph seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

III. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

Mr. Starnes acknowledged Shirl Quesenberry's 23^rd anniversary with the PDC. Everyone congratulated her and stated they hoped she would be able to celebrate another 23 years.

Mr. Starnes reported that Scott Weaver had broken his ankle but is doing very well. Everyone sends their get well wishes.

IV. REVIEW OF MUTUAL CONCERNS AND COMMISSIONER'S REPORTS

There were no Commissioner's reports.

00-26

V. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR JANUARY

Mr. Rundgren presented the Treasurer's Report for January. He asked if there were any questions or additions to the Report. Mr. Rundgren explained that the copies category had been reduced and the printing category had been adjusted to compensate for the negative balance.

Motion: Mr. C. Stewart moved that the Treasurer's Report be approved as presented. Mr. Gerald seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

VI. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

Mr. Rundgren reported on the following items:

A. Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC) Meetings

Committee Meetings - Uses for GIS In Economic Development

Mr. Rundgren stated that the State is busy collecting data on water and sewer pipe lines. Anderson & Associates are doing western Virginia. A target date of June '00 has been set for the completion of the project. In answer to a question as to why the State is seeking this information, Mr. Rundgren responded that the State wants to be in a position of assuring levels of service to prospects. Throughout the State a number of the industrial parks are private and the State is in a position of evaluating other potential sites and need the information.

Regional Partnership Meeting - A loose consortium of Regional Partnerships has finished a brochure promoting the accomplishments of the Partnerships. They discussed formalizing a volunteer association to talk about partnership issues, perhaps as an arm of the VAPDC.

VAPDC Board Meeting - Joe Morgan represented the PDC at the Board Meeting.

GIS/Technology Conference - To be held in Richmond in October or November. There was discussion of a VGIN Budget amendment which is being considered by the General Assembly to assist in mapping in the State. If successful, the project could provide the localities with a way of updating 911 mapping without the locality flying the locality.

B. VAPDC General Session

Virginia Economic Development Partnership- Provided a presentation focusing on "why in good times do we continue to do economic development", economic base must change or be left behind.

"Growing Smart "- Presentation by Connie Cooper, the talk focused on transferable development rights as the vehicle to achieve "Smart Growth".

Department of Housing and Community Development - Increased funding from General Assembly

00-27

C. Local Government Conference

Congressman Boucher's Conference is to be held at 9:30 a.m. April 10^th in Abingdon. Topics will be Solid Waste Management, Workforce Development, Regional Industrial Parks, and Regional Certification.

D. VAPDC Transportation

Air quality indexes are going to change July 2000- Roanoke may be under more stringent rules and may also impact Montgomery County.

VII. PUBLIC ADDRESS

Mr. Starnes stated that there was no one in the audience to address an agenda item.

VIII. OLD BUSINESS

A. Status of Legislative Change

Mr. Rundgren stated legislation is still alive in the General Assembly.

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. Setting of CDBG Priorities

Mr. Rundgren made a presentation showing some of the grants due and projects which may be undertaken in the coming year to help with deciding which categories should be ranked highest.

Each Commission member ranked the priorities which were compiled and totaled. It was the consensus to accept the following priorities as the final ranking:

Priority #1

Economic Development - Job Creation and Retention

Comprehensive Community Development

Economic Development - Entrepreneurship Development

Priority #2

Economic Development - Development Readiness

Economic Development - Economic Environment Enhancement

Housing - Housing Rehabilitation

Priority #3

Housing - Housing Production Assistance

Community Facility

Community Service Facility

00-28

B. Transportation Items

DRAFT Pre-Allocation Hearing Comments

Mr. Burton provided the Commissioners with the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee's recommended comments to be forwarded to the Commonwealth Transportation Board at the Pre-Allocation Hearing.

Mr. C. Stewart stated Pulaski is still trying to get the New River Trail extension.

The Montgomery County Board of Supervisors are not in support in any way shape or form of the concept of the New River Valley Link Road.

Mr. Spencer submitted a request to VDOT for hangers on the bridge at Celanese and asked if this should be included in comments.

Patrick asked if Mr. Starnes could make the presentation at the Hearing. Mr. Starnes said he would check his schedule

Motion: Mr. Weddle moved that the draft pre-allocation hearing comments be accepted. Dr. Randolph seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

DRAFT Transportation Work Program FY 00-01 & DRAFT Resolution of Support

Mr. Burton presented the Draft Transportation Work Program for the PDC and asked for approval of the work program by a Resolution of Support

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved for approval of the Resolution of Support of the Transportation Work Program for FY 00-01. Mr. C. Stewart seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

Brief Summary of Proposal for Submission to Rural Transportation Grant Program (RTGP) & DRAFT Resolution of Support for RTGP Proposal

Mr. Burton stated that the Town of Blacksburg has identified a need to conduct a study of vehicle and pedestrian circulation in its downtown area. The Town will provide the 20% match.

Motion: Dr. Randolph moved that the Resolution of Support be approved. Mr. Stipes seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

00-29

C. Discussion of Sustainable Communities

Ms. Therrien presented a slide show of sustainable options for drinking water, wastewater, solid waste management, and innovative recycling. She included discussion of ozone treatment of wastewater discharge would eliminate dechlorinations and traditional disinfection by-product options; membrane filtrations for drinking water vastly reduces sludge and removes almost all micro organisms; the green building concept improves indoor air quality and has comparable costs per square foot as traditional construction; for energy efficiency use compact fluorescent lights, heat pumps and solar heating; and for fuel efficiency use gas-electric hybrid vehicles.

XI. COMMONWEALTH INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS

A. Continuation or Renewal Projects (Signed-off by the staff)

1. FTA Section 5310 Purchase of Vehicles - Mountain Empire Services of the Southwest

2. FTA Section 5310 Purchase of Vehicles - New River Valley Workshop

3. FTA Section 5310 Purchase of Vehicles - New River Valley Senior Services

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions on either the regular project or the environmental projects; if not, could they be approved by one motion.

B. Regular Project Review

1. Grace's Jewelry and New River Inn & Bookstore - New Enterprises Fund

C. Environmental Project Review

1. Campus Development Project- Radford University

2. Proposed Construction of Equipment Storage & Wash Buildings - VDOT

Motion: Dr. Randolph moved that these projects be found not in conflict with regional plans, policies, or goals. Mr. Light seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

There being no further business, a motion was made by Mr. Weddle, seconded by Mr. Sheffey, and unanimously approved that the meeting be adjourned.

________________________________________

Thomas L. Starnes, Chairman

New River Valley Planning District Commission

00-34

NEW RIVER VALLEY PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION

Minutes of the Commission Meeting

held on April 27, 2000

New River Valley Competitiveness Center, Fairlawn, 7:30 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL

Chairman Starnes called the meeting to order with 11 members present.

PRESENT: Mr. T. Starnes, Chairman, Radford; Mr. F. Gerald, Floyd County; Mrs. E. Janney, Floyd County; Dr. A.T. Leighton, Town of Blacksburg; Dr. H. Harvey, City of Radford; Mr. L. Light, Giles County; Dr. J. Moore, Montgomery County; Mr. J. Morgan, Pulaski County; Mrs. A. Perkins, Montgomery County; Mr. J. Sheffey, Pulaski County; and Mr. C. Stewart, Town of Pulaski.

ABSENT: Mr. G. Gentry, City of Radford; Mr. J. Randolph, Town of Blacksburg; Mr. H. Spencer, Giles County; Mr. B. Stipes, Town of Christiansburg; Mr. S. Weaver, Town of Christiansburg; and Mr. J. Weddle, Town of Pulaski.

II. APPROVAL OF MARCH MINUTES

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions or additions to the March minutes.

Motion: Dr. Leighton moved that the March minutes be approved as presented. Dr. Moore seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

III. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

Mr. Starnes stated he had nothing to report.

IV. REVIEW OF MUTUAL CONCERNS AND COMMISSIONER'S REPORTS

Mr. Morgan stated that the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions' summer meeting will be held July 13-15 in Virginia Beach. They are encouraging PDC Directors to bring as many members as they can because the agenda covers important topics.

Mrs. Perkins stated that Mr. Weaver had been named "Citizen of the Year" by the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce.

V. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR MARCH

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions or additions to the March Treasurer's Report.

Motion: Mr. Morgan moved that the Treasurer's Report be approved as presented. Mrs. Janney seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

00-35

VI. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

Mr. Rundgren reported on the following items:

A. Grant Applications

Mr. Rundgren stated that four grant applications have been completed:

Expansion of Competitiveness Center: EDA authorized as an expansion of the Competitiveness Center, a 20,000 square foot facility at a cost of $2 million dollars.

Floyd Industrial Park: This project would be funded again beginning in October.

Jacksonville Center 2: Expansion of Jacksonville center for incubator space. This type of incubator has potential because of its closeness to the Parkway.

New River Access: The Economic Development Administration reviewed the CEDS and identified a number of projects which they would like to have in a proposal for a single project. There is a potential for $400,000 to support a river access project. The identified projects included: City of Radford - $75,000; Water Atlas - $35,000; Pulaski access - $45,000; Watershed map -$50,000; Interpretive Trail Guide - $55,000; etc. There are many potential project locations including Peak Creek in the Town of Pulaski; Rt. 114 Bridge, Whitethorne, and Arsenal in Montgomery County. The PDC met with participating jurisdiction representatives and they thought the PDC should plan and implement this project. Mr. Rundgren stated that a PER for engineering services should be placed and contact made with Game and Inland Fisheries representatives. Mr. Gerald asked if Floyd County would be considered. Mr. Rundgren stated that Floyd is not directly on the River, even though it is in the watershed but if Mr. Gerald could think of something, let him know. Mrs. Perkins asked what is the timeframe. Mr. Rundgren said September of October.

B. Workforce Investment Act

Mr. Rundgren stated that at the last Commission meeting the PDC accepted a request to become the fiscal agent for the Workforce Investment Act Program. Mr. Sheffey has been named Chairman of the Consortium of Elected Officials which sets policy. A Workforce Investment Board has been appointed, with Waylon Overstreet as Chairman, Hi Nicely as 1^st Vice Chairman and Dave Elmore 2^nd Vice Chairman; the Board is responsible for direction of the program. Separate from the WIA Board will also be One-Stops which are responsible for providing the services. Funding has been awarded to Pulaski County for planning the transition from the Private Industry Council (PIC) to the WIA system. A contract has been signed with the PIC for the staff work required for the transition to the Workforce Investment Board. Mr. Sheffey stated that the program is very complex and the deadline dates are unreal. There are 13 workforce areas involved in the program and our area is ahead of the game right now. Mr. Rundgren commended Mr. Sheffey for a masterful job.

Labor Market Intelligence System: The Mount Rogers Planning District Commission has asked the Commission to participate in a comprehensive study of the regional workforce to be produced by ERISS Corporation. The resulting databases and web pages would be available for a year to be used for development and recruiting purposes. Mt. Rogers is proposing that the Economic Development Administration and Rural Development grants be used to cover the full costs of the first year. After the first year it is understood that update costs would run approximately 25 percent of the original cost. The Commission asked Mr. Rundgren to check into the proposal further.

00-36

VII. PUBLIC ADDRESS

Mr. Starnes stated that there was no one in the audience to address an agenda item.

VIII. OLD BUSINESS

There was none

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. Review of Goals & Objectives for (CEDS)

Cindy Miller reviewed proposed changes the staff made to the goals and objectives since they were provided to members at the last meeting. Those changes were italicized for easy reading. A copy of those changes will be provided with the minutes. Mr. Starnes asked if the goals and objectives could be approved subject to any changes the Commissioners may wish to make after reviewing them further. There was a consensus to approve the goals and objectives.

B. Review of Project Evaluation Criteria

Cindy Miller reviewed the proposed project evaluation criteria. She stated that changes were made to items 4-6 concerning the points system, changing the points from a 1- below average or 2 - above average status to a 3-0 status relating to State statistics.

C. Review of Draft Project List

Cindy Miller stated that localities were contacted and asked to provide the Commission with projects that are proposed in their locality. Pearisburg, Town of Glen Lyn, the City of Radford, Montgomery and Pulaski counties responded with projects. If the Commissioners know of any other projects, they are asked to call the PDC office.

D. Other

There was no further new business.

X. COMMONWEALTH INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS

A. Continuation or Renewal Projects (Signed-off by the staff)

Mr. Starnes stated the continuation/renewal projects were signed off by staff, but will answer any questions.

1. FY 2000 Department of Defense Cooperative Agreement - Department of Environmental Quality

2. Virginia Chesapeake Bay Non-point Source Pollution Control Program - Department of Conservation & Recreation

00-37

B. Regular Project Review

Mr. Starnes asked if there were any questions or if the projects could be approved as a group.

1. Bluff City Neighborhood Revitalization - Town of Pearisburg

2. The Jacksonville Center - Floyd Community Center for the Arts

3. Pollution Prevention Services for Small and Medium-sized Manufacturers - Wytheville Community College

4. State Food Safety Task Force Meetings - VA Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Motion: Mr. Sheffey moved that the projects be found not in conflict with regional plans, policies, or goals. Dr. Leighton seconded the motion.

Action: Motion carried unanimously.

________________________________________

Thomas L. Starnes, Chairman

New River Valley Planning District Commission

APPENDIX II

CEDS Committee Membership

Return to CEDS Introduction

Return to NRVPDC Home Page

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