Annual Report 2022-23

Wilkes Economic Development Corporation

20232022 Annual Report

Reflecting Back

This past year has been a time of change and great opportunity in our Wilkes County.

Some of the long-held dreams of the past have become reality and new dreams are being dreamed. Through the hard work of the Wilkes EDC team, our local and state governments, community leaders, our citizens and those that have interests in Wilkes County, old things have become new again, small things have become large and things that never were, are.

North Wilkesboro Speedway (Project Reborn) reopened its’ doors after a multi-million dollar facelift and welcomed back old friends and made lots of new ones. The NASCAR All-Star Race Week was a tremendous success for Wilkes County as tens of thousands of visitors came to our home and were welcomed with open arms. Speedway Motorsports (SMI) put on an amazing week-long event that filled our hotels, restaurants, shops, and streets. The Town of Wilkesboro, North Wilkesboro, the County of Wilkes, and community organizations teamed up to make a seamless presentation of our community. And I am told that the best is yet to come!

We completed our first Wilkes Commercial Business Center and… it is fully leased!! This project is a partnership of the County of Wilkes, GoldenLEAF Foundation, and Wilkes EDC. Through this partnership, we welcome two new businesses to Wilkes County to provide new job opportunities and support our county. JavaMaster (JMI) is a coffee roaster and packager that works closely with Lowes Foods and other partners in the Southeast Region of the US. They currently operate with 13 new employees and hope to grow the business further in the future. And recently, Prism Medical Products became our second tenant. PRISM is a national provider of specialty home medical supplies. More information will be forthcoming upon their arrival. Having completed the first WCBC successfully, Wilkes EDC has applied for and received GoldenLEAF grants that will help move us forward towards the next WCBC. I believe the best is yet to come.

Our housing study has spurred both single family residential and multifamily residential development. The current need for housing in Wilkes will likely only grow as more people learn of the beauty and safety that is found in Wilkes County. The EDC has renewed its’ efforts in this area and will continue to assist in finding developers and land for development. The Outdoor Economy Plan is proceeding into its’ next phase to move from concept to implementation. The Wilkes EDC will remain active in its’ role as a partner and will seek ways to move initiatives forward. We continued our Entrepreneurial Grant Program and assisted 8 more local businesses with improvements to their operations. This program has impacted 56 entrepreneurs since its’ inception in 2015 with nearly a 90% long-term success rate. We congratulate each of them. There are so many great things happening around us and I know the best is yet to come!

Lastly, it has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Chairman of the Wilkes EDC Board of Directors for the past year. In December, I will be sworn in as the next Mayor of Wilkesboro (unless something unforeseen occurs). Being Mayor will place me in a situation that will require me to step down from serving as Chair. This is disappointing to me as economic development in my home community is a passion of mine. I plan to continue to serve on the Board through the Town of Wilkesboro appointment.

I want to thank our EDC President LeeAnn Nixon, Vice-President/CFO Robin Hamby, Marketing Manager Francisco Martinez, Office Administrator Paula McNeil as well as our volunteer Board of Directors for their dedication and hard work for our county. The Wilkes EDC exists to serve our community. If you need a solution for your business, please do not hesitate to contact the EDC staff or any of our Board members. I encourage all of us to stay connected and keep this synergy going for our citizens as we are all on the same team. Thank you for your support in making Wilkes a better place to live for all of us!

Dale Isom Wilkes EDC Chairman

See Project Activities from the 2022-23 year.

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Learn about stories efforts surrounding the NW Speedway during the 2022-23.

Golden LEAF SITE Program

Wilkes EDC is moving forward with the SITE Program!

14 Outdoor Economy Updates

See news and updates regarding Wilkes County’s Great Outdoors!

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Wilkes County Childcare Study

The Study is complete! Learn about our next steps for collectively solving the Childcare Challenge.

Learn about what’s happening around the area.

See our 2022-23 Grant Program Recipients!

Reflecting back.

See updates from past winners of the Grant Program.

About Us

Our Mission: To facilitate the creation of new jobs and capital investment in Wilkes County, through the retention and expansion of existing businesses, recruitment of new businesses, along with real estate development for growth in Wilkes County.

Our Vision: Wilkes County continues to be stronger and more sustainable economic development organization that facilitates growth and strengthens the economy.

What’s New?

Our Annual Activity Report got a makeover!

Read on to see the new look.

The Wilkes EDC will launch an updated website this Fall. The update will feature a new resource library, an improved user experience, and more. WilkesEDC.com

North Wilkesboro Speedway Revitalization

Racetrack Revival

In November 2021, Governor Roy Cooper allocated funds from the American Rescue Plan towards SMI tracks, including Charlotte Motor Speedway, Rockingham, and North Wilkesboro Speedway. The North Wilkesboro Speedway received $18 million Federal American Rescue Funds which moved the revitalization of the Speedway forward.

In August 2022, the North Wilkesboro Speedway hosted the CARS Tour race with Racetrack Revival, produced by XR Events. Dale Earnhardt Jr. drew a crowd exceeding the 10,000 attendance predictions.

On Thursday, September 8, Speedway Motorsports and NASCAR officials gathered in Raleigh to announce the North Wilkesboro Speedway to host the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race. They received an additional $4 million to make it possible sooner than projected.

NASCAR All-Star Race

The NASCAR All-Star Race Week, May 15-21, 2023, was a triumphant week for Wilkes County. The race week came together with collaborative efforts by Speedway Motorsports (SMI), Wilkes County, Town of North Wilkesboro, Town of Wilkesboro, Wilkes EDC, Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, NCDOT, Law Enforcement, volunteers, and citizens. There was attendance from all 50 states, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition, there was representation from seven countries, as far away as Israel and Australia. According to SMI, there were at least 50,000 tickets sold. Based on SMI’s experience at other events, they believe there was more than a $50 million impact.

• 1949 the speedway hosted a year-end race that became the Cup Series.

• The track held two races each year, starting in 1951.

• There were 90 Cup Races until the track closed in 1996.

• The North Wilkesboro Speedway is a .625-mile oval track.

• 2023 is the 75th anniversary of NASCAR.

Thursday, during Race Week, both towns put together FanFest, the ultimate NASCAR fan experience with live music, food, and NASCAR racing simulators. The Hauler Parade took place during FanFest, which flowed from Wilkesboro to North Wilkesboro and ended at the North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Another example of collaboration was the joint effort of Wilkes EDC and Wilkesboro TDA promoting Wilkes County during the All-Star Race Week through advertising opportunities offered by NASCAR. Thanks to the help of Serrano Film Company, Jared C. Shumate Media & Marketing, Dawson Films, and Created by Coffee Designs, we all delivered an excellent marketing package for the race week. The video can be viewed at AllStarRaceWeek.com (assembled by Wilkes EDC, Wilkesboro TDA, and Downtown North Wilkesboro Partnership), or scan the QR Code to visit the site. AllStarRaceWeek.com.

The Wilkes EDC team continued local efforts by welcoming guests to Wilkes County by working with Cindy Thompson, an EDC Board Member, and Wilkes County Airport Manager, Dustin Caudill, to get the airport Race Ready! Upon arrival, airport visitors could see the NASCAR All-Star Race flag flown under the American Flag, followed by a ‘Welcome Race Fans’ banner outside the terminal. When entering the building, they received a Wilkes Warm Welcome, a complimentary gift bag with Wilkes EDC and tourism information along with refreshments.

Wilkes County and Wilkes EDC added two TV screens in the terminal, one for flight schedules and another as an ongoing advertising opportunity for Wilkes EDC. Over 50 additional flights came through the Wilkes County Airport and the fuel sales were up by 40%, exceeding expectations for the All-Star Race. Additionally, Samaritan’s Purse provided a food truck throughout the week, graciously feeding airport staff and visiting pilots daily.

Engaged with NC Carolina Core

Wilkes EDC has developed an excellent working relationship with the Carolina Core, which is the brand for a region in central North Carolina centered along the U.S. Highway 421 corridor. That corridor begins in Wilkes County, goes through Winston-Salem / High Point / Greensboro, and then down to Pinehurst, Sanford, and Fayetteville.

The Carolina Core – a branding initiative of the Piedmont Triad Partnership that began in 2018 – promotes this region to companies and site selectors by highlighting all the economic development assets that make it a globally-competitive market.

Wilkes EDC began using the Carolina Core brand in August 2022 and has been warmly welcomed by the Piedmont Triad Partnership staff and the region’s other local economic development offices.

The Carolina Core works closely with Wilkes EDC and the other local economic development agencies. Those local economic developers are brought together several times per year to help promote the Carolina Core to site selectors, to work together regionally on projects, to share information, and to focus on team-building.

One of the Carolina Core’s current efforts that is especially important to Wilkes County is working to designate a 65-mile segment of U.S. Highway 421 in Wilkes, Yadkin, and Forsyth counties into a Future Interstate highway.

• Carolina Core is working on this designation with North Carolina’s congressional delegation and transportation officials.

• In support of this effort, the governing bodies of Wilkes County, Town of Wilkesboro, and the Town of North Wilkesboro unanimously passed resolutions of support for this Future Interstate designation.

• Commissioners in Yadkin, Forsyth, Ashe, and Surry counties also adopted resolutions of support.

The Carolina Core brand came about from the efforts of the Piedmont Triad Partnership, a private leadership organization bringing together and leveraging the business community to promote prosperity and help drive economic and job growth. PTP supports regional development platforms including megasite development and other transformational projects that will prepare the Carolina Core region to compete for major economic development job-generating projects.

Learn more at NCCarolinaCore.com

Scan the QR Code to learn more about The Carolina Core.

Announcements

Wilkes Commercial Business Center

Wilkes EDC gives Wilkes County Government a special thank you for their financial support as well as Golden LEAF for their grant funding program. Together all three intenties contributed and made WCBC possible.

The grand opening of the WCBC commenced one year after construction began with a celebration on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at the business center. Members of the Wilkes EDC Board, Golden LEAF Foundation, Wilkes County Government, Omega Construction and partners, ArcVision Studio, the Town of North Wilkesboro, the Town of Wilkesboro, and various other community members were present at the event.

A new tenant was announced for Suite 101, Bob Gumber, President of JavaMaster (JMI), at the event. In July, JMI began operating at WCBC. John Pryzbyla, Vice President of JMI, oversees their facility. Pryzbyla has been working closely with Lowes Foods since 2014 during the launch of The Boxcar Coffee. JMI’s headquarters is in Wixom, Michigan. Their relationship with Lowes Foods led them to consider opening a location in the Carolinas. JMI will roast, package, and distribute its products using roasters they manufacture in Michigan from this facility. They will provide local products and expand their support to Lowes Foods along with adding other clients in the Southeast Region. Learn more about JMI by scanning the QR code or visiting: JavaMaster.com.

LeeAnn Nixon said, “WCBC completion is a celebration of many working together to move Wilkes forward through partnerships. Having available space welcomes existing companies to grow or new companies to locate in Wilkes County that are ready to add above average wage jobs and investment, which creates opportunities for our citizens.”

Recent Updates

On July 25 Wilkes EDC Board Members gathered together to discuss applications received for the Wilkes Commercial Business Center and unanimously voted to invite Prism Medical Products (PRISM) as WCBC’s second tenant.

PRISM is a nationwide provider of specialty home medical supplies with a core competency in advanced wound care products. It is a privately held company founded in 2006 with headquarters in Elkin, North Carolina, as well as an operations office in Las Vegas, Nevada, and 10 fulfillment centers located across the U.S. The company has more than 200 team members and had net revenue for the 12 months ended September 30, 2020, of approximately $52 million. PRISM operates as a subsidiary of Henry Schein Medical and is managed separately as an individual division by Chris Cartwright, Founder and President of Prism Medical Products. PRISM serves a broad and loyal referral network of nationally affiliated and independently operated wound care clinics, as well as specialist practices and clinics in primary care, ostomy, podiatry, rehabilitation and physical therapy, general and plastic surgery, dermatology, and vascular medicine. PRISM enjoys strong referral retention rates as well as high marks for customer satisfaction. Learn more by scanning the QR code or by visiting: Prism-Medical.com.

Wilkes County welcomes JavaMaster and PRISM to our community and looks forward to supporting their growth and continued success.

$41,815,000 Investment Project Totals

7 Projects

133 Jobs

New Business

New Business

Announcements

Retail Solutions Group - Existing Business

Wilkes EDC assisted RSG in locating a building as part of our complimentary business services. We joined community members and partners for the ribbon cutting, coordinated by the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, for the Retail Solutions Group’s (RSG) new building. RSG is an Wilkes-Based company established in 2011 as NRS Logistics, Inc. RSG is a multi-layered company with three divisions; the Steel Recovery Center, the Filled Service Teams, and RSG’s warehousing and logistics division. This celebration marked its fourth largest warehouse, located at 1000 Ridge Street, Wilkesboro, NC. Learn more at RSG-co.com.

Wilkes Woodworking - Existing Business

Wilkes EDC assisted in identifying and connecting Wilkes Woodworking to their new location at 1200 Woodfield Way located in Wilkesboro, NC. They specialize in custom high-end manufacturing of range hoods for Hoodsley, floating shelves and other fine wood items. Moving to a new location allowed them more room to organize their production and expand their offerings. Learn more at WilkesWoodWorking.com.

Race City Industrial - New Business

Wilkes EDC encouraged and assisted Race City in relocating to North Wilkesboro from Statesville, NC. They manufacturer custom-made, heavy-duty reinforced truck and roofing tarps, stone guards, cargo and seat covers, shade cloths for decks, gazebos, tennis courts, ball fields and swimming pools. Additionally Race City specializes in storm water inlet bags and sacks. Learn more at WeatherTeckEnterprise.com.

Contentment - New Business

Wilkes EDC is providing assistance to Contentment through introductions and referrals. Curt Sidden, founder, along with family and a team of experts are developing Contentment. A world-class private golf retreat is emerging on approximately 900 acres of family farmland in Hays, northwest of Traphill, next to Stone Mountain State Park. Lester George, an award-winning championship golf course architect who is known for renovating and restoring CD Macdonald and Seth Raynor-designed classics, is engaged. George’s creativity will flourish in Contentment’s 18-hole course, which will represent a minimalist style course that flows within the native landscape. Other amenities being planned by Chapman Coyle Chapman (Atlanta-based Architects), involve a clubhouse with lodging and full-service dining, as well as rustic yet elegant style member cottages. In addition to golf, members, and guests will be encouraged to experience nature through hiking trails and spending leisure time around a 7-acre fishing lake or by the trout streams. In a later phase, a spa and fitness facility, as well as a chapel, will be established for enjoyment. The development timeline of Contentment will begin by breaking ground in the Fall of 2023, with the clubhouse and suites slated in the Winter of 2023. In 2024, the golf construction will progress throughout the year followed with a grand opening expected in the Summer/Fall of 2025. Learn more at ContentmentGolf.com.

Catholic Charities - New Business

Wilkes EDC assisted in identifying and connecting Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte with their new location at 201 Tenth Street, North Wilkesboro, NC. The office will provide Wee Care Ministry assistance as its foundational ministry which assists participants with free infant and toddler clothing and a variety of supplies to families and children in need. Learn more at ccdoc.org.

Wilkes EDC Entrepreneurial Grant Program

Wilkes EDC is proud to hold the Entrepreneurial Grant Program twice a year, in the Spring and Fall. Since 2015, the program has helped 56 entrepreneurs with total funding of $127,363. Nearly 90% of businesses that completed the program are still operating today. The submissions are judged based on the potential funding impact on the business and the sustainability of each respective recipient. Applicants submitted a video pitch in addition to their business plans and financial summaries to give the judges insight into their proposed use of funds. The grants totaled $12,000 for Fall 2022 and $13,500 for Spring 2023. The last round marked the 11th successful program. We thank our sponsors, Duke Energy (Fall 2022 Sponsor) and The Small Business Center (Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 Sponsor), in joining us for making this program possible. To learn more about our program, visit WilkesEDC.com.

Thank You to Our Program Sponsors!

Fall 2022 Grant Recipients

Hive Fitness Studio - Existing Business

Hive Fitness Studio LLC, located at 1301 Westwood Lane, Unit 3-4 in Wilkesboro, offers private and semiprivate training, small group fitness classes, and sports performance training. Owner, Megan Barnett, started her career teaching large group exercise classes and boot camps but wanted to offer her clients something more personal and focus more on longer-term health and fitness. Barnett received a $3,700 grant for rubber flooring for the studio. The rubber flooring will help to expand the space for classes and exercises. To learn more, please visit TrainWithHive.com or scan the QR code.

Arlene & Friends Salon & Spa - Existing Business

Arlene and Friends Salon and Spa, located at 205 6th Street, North Wilkesboro, was purchased by Melissa Byrd in May 2018. They offer services for hair care and some skin and nail treatments. Melissa proudly offers her team opportunities to grow and expand their skill sets through certifications and training programs to bring back to their clients. They received a grant of $2,150 towards an 8-in-1 DermiSystem to expand their services. To learn more or to book an appointment, call (336) 838-4384.

Fall 2022 Grant Recipients (continued)

Comity Cabin - New Business

Comity Cabin LLC, a New Business applicant of the Entrepreneurial Grant Program, is an arts and crafts retreat in Moravian Falls. Sarah Chapman came from a family of crafters and was inspired to create a crafting retreat cabin. Chapman and her husband, Chris Chapman, began renovations in early 2022 and continue adding to it for more crafting activities. Sarah received a grant of $3,400 for tables and chairs for crafting sessions at the cabin. To learn more or to book your getaway, visit ComityCabin.com or scan the QR code.

Update

Sarah Chapman officially began reservations for Comity Cabin at the beginning of the year. Further accommodations have been made to the cabin such as completing the ramp to the side door for handicap-accessibility and modifications to the fireplace.

Whitney Deal Dancewear - New Business

Whitney Deal Dancewear operates in the North Wilkesboro area and creates custom dance apparel for young dancers. Owner, Whitney Deal, has experience with the dance studio growing up and found herself in this familiar setting thanks to her daughters sharing the same interests. She started her business in January 2022 and has since operated under the philosophy of creating dancewear designed to make girls feel comfortable, confident, and cute. Whitney Deal Dancewear was awarded a $2,750 grant for their first production order of custom-made dance leotards. To learn more about this business or its selection, visit WhitneyDealDancewear.com or scan the QR code.

Update

Whitney Deal Dancewear transitioned to a new location at the corner of 10th Street in Downtown North Wilkesboro in May 2023! Their new location comes with a larger storefront and more space to showcase more of their dancewear and accessories.

Spring 2023 Grant Recipients

TwoBoros Performance Shop - New Business

TwoBoros Performance Shop is the first Late Model Stock Car Team in Wilkes County since the 1990s. The performance shop owner Seth Cohn shared that they are in the first development phase and currently have one full-time driver, Dylon Wilson. Cohn plans to expend the $6,000 grant towards equipment and safety for growing their current Driver Development program and developing a Speedway Driver Experience where racing fans could rent a car to drive around the track or accompany a professional driver on a first-hand racing experience. Stay up to date with the shop by following their Facebook page or scan the QR code.

Lost Owl Glamping - New Business

The Lost Owl Glamping is a unique camping destination with luxury tents, geodesic domes, cabins, and tree houses. Owner, Eiryn Dishmon, came up with the idea to allow guests to enjoy the great outdoors while having a comfortable space to end the day. All units will have décor and luxury bedding, while larger units will contain coffee and tea stations with complimentary amenities for each guest. Dishmon plans to allocate her $3,000 grant towards infrastructure as they continue building the units and start on a camping store. The store will allow guests to shop for convenience items they may need during their stay without ever having to leave the site. Visit Wilkes EDC to read the full press release or scan the QR code.

Spring 2023 Grant Recipients (continued)

Brushy Mtn. CrossFit - New Business

Brushy Mountain CrossFit, located at 301 L St in North Wilkesboro, offers instructor-directed group classes focusing on functional fitness and promoting overall wellness. Owner, Meagan Reavis, opened Brushy Mountain CrossFit to provide a space where a community could be built centered around being healthy. The gym opened in September of 2022 and has grown faster than expected. Meagan received a grant of $3,000 for storage equipment that will allow more space in the gym for their growing community. To learn more about Brushy Mountain CrossFit, please visit BrushyMountainCrossFit.com or scan the QR code.

Patti’s Leather and Shoe Repair - New Business

Patti’s Leather and Shoe Repair moved from their Elkin location and opened their new location in North Wilkesboro in January 2023. They specialize in shoe repairs, patching, and accessory attachment or repair. They plan to offer retail products such as conditioners, waterproofing, polishes, and more for quality shoe and leather care. Owner, Patricia Miller, received a $1,500 grant and will use it towards equipment for a new apprentice for the shop. She will continue working with Laurie Brintle-Jarvis at the Small Business Center to set up an apprenticeship program through Apprenticeship NC. Learn more about their services and get a quote on leather and shoe repairs today! Visit Patties-Leather-Repair.business.site or scan the QR code.

Past Winner Entrepreneur Updates

Merle’s Cocktail and Lounge - New Business

The former Wilkes EDC Entrepreneurial Grant Program recipient, Merle’s, officially opened their doors on February 7, 2023. Merle’s is a cocktail lounge operated and owned by Erin and Michael Vanderploeg, partner LB Prevette, and mixologist expert Stephanie Elliott. The family-owned, 157-year-old historic cottage has undergone renovations over the last two years. The cottage has operated as several business entities over the years, and Erin Vanderploeg, great-granddaughter to original owner, had an innovative vision for this space that would become a community favorite. Merle’s operates Thursday through Friday from 4 to 9 pm and Saturday from 3 to 9 pm. See their beautiful space at 106 E. Main Street, Wilkesboro, NC.

Stardust Cellars - Existing Business

Two time Entrepreneurial Grant recipient, Stardust Cellars, officially closed their doors at Stardust Cellars & Taproom on July 2nd to move their operations to their second, and now, primary location at 4780 Statesville Road, North Wilkesboro. Nick Hogrefe, owner, opened the newly renovated Stardust Cellars on July 28 with live music. Stay up-to-date with events and new releases of their mead by visiting StardustCellars.com

Wilkes Wags & Wiggles - New Business

Wilkes Wags & Wiggles, former Wilkes EDC Entrepreneurial Grant recipient of Spring 2022, secured its facility at 325 West Park Circle in December 2022. Owner, Amanda Cowles, worked with EDC since November 2021 to find a location, start a Customer Relationship Management software (funded by the Wilkes EDC Entrepreneurial Grant Program), and connect to local resources. They offer personalized doggy daycare, premium boarding services, and a safe, fun, and friendly experience. Their facility will also give dogs a place to exercise and increase their quality of life. Visit WilkesWagsandWiggles.com to learn more.

Golden LEAF SITE Program

The Golden LEAF Foundation announced 11 grant awards across North Carolina for their SITE Program. We are excited to be a recipient of the$50,000 Due Diligence grant after previously winning and going through the Identification grant! This is the largest amount available in the Due Diligence program.

The SITE Program provides resources to help communities with three phases; Identification, Due Diligence, and Development. The Identification program identifies potential large economic development sites. During the program, a team of experts identified Wilkes Industrial Park as one location having high potential for future development since it is already publicly owned. This insight enabled us to proceed to the Due Diligence phase of the program, which focuses on publicly controlled sites. The final possible phase, which we plan to make application for later, is Development, where the program provides funding to extend public utilities to publicly controlled sites or to conduct clearing and rough grading of publicly owned sites.

We are working with the Golden LEAF team and the Town of North Wilkesboro during Q3 to perform due diligence on the Wilkes Industrial Park. Click the link to read the full article: GoldenLEAF.org/news/spring-2023round-of-the-site-program-results-in-4-5-million-in-funding/

Outdoor Economy Updates Outdoor Economy Action Plan

Wilkes EDC signed its second MOU in July 2023, following our 2020 commitment to the Outdoor Economy workinggroup. The EDC will continue to collectively work together and financially contribute to progress over the next five years with an additional focus on our mission of marketing and recruitment outdoor businesses. Marketing efforts to promote the Great State of Wilkes continues jointly too as the Outdoor Economy Marketing Committee prepares a kiosk for the Outdoor Economy Conference in September 2023, where Wilkes EDC will be an exhibitor to create awareness of Wilkes County’s outdoor amenities. Wilkesboro TDA will be joining us at the booth

MADE X MOUNTAINS Acceleration Cohort

The Building Outdoor Communities program of MADE X MTNS (Made by Mountains) is a regional effort to position Western North Carolina as the outdoor economic hub of the Eastern United States. The goals of the program are to build stronger communities, attract outdoor businesses, and promote outdoor culture and amenities in the 25 western North Carolina counties and the Qualla Boundary. The Great State of Wilkes Outdoor Economy Workgroup, a Health Foundation initiative of which the EDC is a member, was chosen to participate in a seven-month technical assistance program as one of only five counties with both a strong local collaborative and a plan of action aligning with those goals. Members of the workgroup have prioritized strategies and are seeking to leverage local funding with federal, state, and private grant dollars to position Wilkes as a multi-faceted place to live, work, and play.

Outdoor Economy Updates

Roaring River Park and River Access

The Roaring River Park and River Access Project will serve as a community park along the Yadkin River in eastern Wilkes County. The overall project scope involves engineering and development for phase one of the park, including a river access area with a ramp, paved walking trail, playground, parking, and access road improvements. The park will provide a public river access point for the Yadkin River State Trail (YRST), and a paved walking trail will be eligible for certification and designation as Overmountain Victory National Historic and State Trail (OVT). The site is located on approximately 66 acres of property owned by Wilkes County between Highway 268 and the Yadkin River in the Roaring River community. In pursuit of this project, the County of Wilkes has applied for three grants to help fund the project: the North Carolina Water Resources Development Grant, Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant, and the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant. The North Carolina Water Resources Development Grant and the Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant have each been secured. The North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Grant awards will be decided in mid-August. This is an exciting project for our county as the park will provide an excellent opportunity to help fill an essential need for parks and open space in a very rural area of Wilkes with few recreational facilities, and will also provide environmental awareness, health, and wellness, and economic impact benefits which will increase the overall quality of life for Wilkes County residents.

“Boros River District” Land Secured

Part of the Wilkes Outdoor Action Plan includes the concept of developing the “Boros River District” in the area where the Reddies River and Yadkin river converge. In April 2022, The Herring Family Foundation purchased the land needed for this initiative to encourage development. The Town of North Wilkesboro and Wilkes EDC are exploring potential next steps for the district with the Herring Family Foundation.

Smoot Park Inclusive Playground

Phase I of the Smoot Park Revitalization project has been completed (including a new inclusive playground, a new challenge course, and painting the picnic shelters). Phase II will be out for bid by the end of August, and construction will be begin this fall. Phase II aims to renovate the pool, diving well, and pool house to fully comply with ADA regulations.

Cub Creek Park Official Opening Set

The first and second phases of a universally designed inclusive playground in Cub Creek Park, Wilkesboro, are nearing completion. The playground, designed for all ages and mobility levels, features climbing net structures, ground-level mini-trampolines, and spinning equipment. The park includes a fishing pier with ADA access to Cub Creek waters. The official opening will take place on October 21, 2023.

Outdoor Economy Updates

2023 is North Carolina’s Year of the Trail

The NC House and Senate has passed a bill that designates 2023 as “North Carolina’s Year of the Trail.” The Mountain to Sea trail stretches 1175 miles from the Great Smokey Mountains to the Outer Banks, stopping at many of our state’s most beautiful places along the way. North Carolina’s Year of the Trail in 2023 is a celebration of all North Carolina’s thousands of miles of stunning trails, greenways, and blueways. Wilkes County is full of adventures to hike, bike, and paddle. Enjoy riding our rolling hills, enjoy quiet rivers, or exercise on our many vibrant greenways and trails. Learn more at GreatTrailsNC.com.

Additionally, The Moonshine and Motorsports Trail will highlight our state’s history and cultural impact on increased economic development. Wilkes county will be one of the locations to showcase North Carolina’s intertwined history of distilling and stock car racing. Visit dncr.nc.gov/programs-services/moonshine-andmotorsports-trail to learn more about the trail locations.

Wilkes County Childcare Study

On Thursday, June 29, at The Stone Center, the Childcare Taskforce released a year-long study of their findings of the Wilkes County Childcare Study. The Herring Family Foundation recognized the need and graciously provided funding for this study.

Attendees learned about the challenges of locating childcare in Wilkes County and the demand during the presentation. The high-level recommendations were:

• Increase Workforce Participation of Parents through Family-Friendly Practices

• Attract, Develop, and Retain Childcare Workforce

• Support the Childcare Business Model of Existing Providers

• Encourage New Childcare Providers

• Help Families and Caregivers Navigate Childcare

• Continue to Elevate the Importance of Childcare in the Community

Members in the room had the opportunity to ask questions regarding the study and recommendations. The meeting concluded with an invitation to implement the recommendations in the upcoming Childcare Coalition. Members in the room had the opportunity to ask Childcare Taskforce

The Childcare Taskforce included Cyndi Dancy of Dancy Research, Dr. Pamela Shue of Appalachian State University, Michelle Shepherd of Wilkes Community Partnership for Children, Kirstin Robert of the Health Foundation and Wilkes EDC members, LeeAnn Nixon, Robin Hamby, and Francisco Martinez. Local members of the Childcare Taskforce will continue to work on the structure and implementation of the Childcare Coalition.

If you are interested in receiving or helping solve the challenges of increasing access to quality, affordable, and acceptiable childcare in Wilkes County, visit WilkesEDC.com to learn more about the Wilkes County Childcare Study or scan the QR code.

Area Growth

Red Roof Inn and Suites Completed

On Thursday, April 20, Wilkes Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Red Roof Inn & Suites at 1206 River Street, Wilkesboro, NC. Spectrum Hospitality Management

LLC began renovating the hotel in July 2022. Red Roof Inn & Suites offers several options for lodging with fully renovated rooms and new amenities.

Dale Isom, president of Spectrum Hospitality Management, said phase two of the renovation will include a playground and picnic area with a fire pit and grills by the soonto-come swimming pool. Guests have access to free coffee in the lobby, breakfast in the mornings, free Wi-Fi, and an expanded cable package. The hotel is also pet-friendly.

Samaritan’s Inn and Warehouse Progress

Ron Wilcox, Samaritan’s Purse Executive Advisor to the CEO and COO and a member of Wilkes EDC Board, announced at Wilkes EDC’s December Board Meeting the construction of Samaritan’s Inn behind the ministry’s existing buildings on N.C. 268 East in North Wilkesboro. The inn will house people training for disaster assistance and other activity from Samaritan’s Purse. The inn will have 29 beds and 44,042 square feet of floor space. The projected completion date is by the end of April 2024. The layout will reflect the cabin heritage of Wilkes County. The exterior of the inn is nearing completion, and the interior is now under construction. It includes a catering kitchen, fitness room, indoor dining area, outdoor seating, and 49 parking spaces, with two electric vehicle chargers. Wilcox shared Samaritan’s Purse employs 348 people who work in Wilkes full-time and 11 part-time with a combined income of almost $22 million.

In addition to the construction of Samaritan’s Inn, grading has begun for the additional warehouse building where the Greene Brothers Furniture building once stood. Building specifications call for a two-floor, 82,243-square-foot warehouse with 111 workstations for staff, loading docks, and lab space. The projected completion date is September 2024.

Wilkesboro’s Bryant Village

The Town of Wilkesboro and Wilkes Habitat for Humanity are partnering on a residential development called Bryant Village. The project, located on a six-acre parcel at the end of Corporation Street, will include 23 homes, with around half available at market rates to fund the construction of the other Habitat for Humanity homes. Homes will have different designs, ranging from 1,070 to over 1,500 square feet. The development aims to promote community and bring people from different backgrounds together. Construction is planned to begin in the next three to six months.

Banker’s Ridge Townhomes

Finley Properties is well along with construction of a five-unit townhome development called Banker’s Ridge, bordered by West North Street, North West Street and the property with the Finley Properties office building (former Bank of America building). These two-story units are set to complete in early fall and will each have approximately 2,600 square feet of floor space. The master bedroom will be on the first floor.

Area Growth

Courthouse Square - Townhomes Available

Finley Properties has completed a 10-unit townhome development in Wilkesboro, behind the Wilkes Heritage Museum, with direct access to downtown and convenient greenways.

All units are three-bedroom and two and a half baths. Seven of the units are two stories, and three are three-story units. All have two-car garages and enjoy access to a common area with a central mailbox system.

The Masthead Opens in North Wilkesboro

The Masthead is open in the former Wilkes Journal-Patriot building, offering 11,200 square feet of co-working space in North Wilkesboro. The facility provides various work areas, including open desks, private offices, Zoom rooms, and conference spaces, catering to solo workers and small businesses. It also features amenities such as a community kitchen, wellness room, and a podcast studio. The Masthead and NC Tech Paths were co-located initially and focused on remote tech job opportunities in Wilkes and surrounding counties. Recently NC Tech Paths relocated to Wilkes Community College. Consider locating your business at The Masthead by contacting them today: Masthead.space

Groundbreaking at FaithFest Complex

Wilkesboro-based Craig Church Ministries Inc. held a groundbreaking ceremony on March 30, 2023, for a 36-acre FaithFest Events Complex. The site, located along the Yadkin River and Lowe’s Park, will serve as the new venue for FaithFest and other events. The complex will feature a large stage, a 130-foot-tall lit cross, a fountain, and support facilities like restrooms. FaithFest 2023 lineup includes Chris Tomlin, Cece Winans, and others. The new venue is expected to accommodate larger crowds and offer diverse events such as revivals, concerts, retreats, and athletic events. The complex will also have camping facilities and will be financed through fundraising efforts.

Bethany Medical Center Expands in North Wilkesboro

Bethany Medical completed its relocation to a new $3.5 million, two-story building in North Wilkesboro on Feb. 6. The 16,000-square-foot facility provides primary care, urgent care, pain management, X-ray imaging, and a weight loss clinic. The new building includes office/retail space for lease on the ground floor. Bethany Medical aims to offer a full range of medical services with easy access and convenient locations for patients in the Triad and surrounding communities.

New T-Hangars at Wilkes County Airport

The completion of a new county-owned T-hangar at Wilkes County Airport was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event on June 30. The hangar offers ten bays, available for lease to store aircraft. The construction bid of $1.08 million from A. Vogt Construction was approved by the county commissioners, staying within the budget. The new hangar is located north of the current airport terminal and next to Samaritan’s Purse hangar.

Wilkes County Occupancy Tax

On February 7, the County Commissioners approved a resolution enacting the Occupancy Tax for overnight guests in Wilkes County with a rate of 6% of gross receipts. This pertains to rentals at any hotel, motel, inn, tourist camp, Airbnb, and Vrbo rentals. A county Tourism Development Authority (TDA) has been organized to oversee the funding and marketing efforts that will be possible by collecting the Occupancy Tax.

Area Growth (continued)

Wilkes County - New Emergency Services Building

On May 12, 2022, Wilkes County EMS broke ground on our new Headquarters Station (Base 1). A 24,000-square-foot facility will be located on Call Street in Wilkesboro, NC on a 6.75-acre site between the Wilkes County Jail and Oakwoods Road. Construction of this base has progressed steadily with Vannoy Construction as the general contractor overseeing this project from a bidding process. The contract calls for full completion by Nov. 30, 2023.

Local Restaurant & Retail

Wilkes County has had many notable businesses open or expand during the 2022-23 year. Businesses include Randy Marion Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, The Lost Wombat, Liberty Theater, Fast Lane, Shortstops, Sheetz, Chappy Crepes, Suck it Up Milkshake, Mulligans Indoor Golf Center, Third Turn Speedway Go-Kart Track, Rock N’ Roll’d Ice Cream.

Infrastructure

The Town of North Wilkesboro received a $15,000,000 state appropriation in 2022. They contracted with McGill and Associates in May of 2023 to engineer a new raw water intake system that will double the town’s raw water intake capacity and be located on the Yadkin River. This project will be bid for construction in February 2024. In the fall of this year (2023), North Wilkesboro will also begin construction on the Actiflo project at their existing water plant on the Reddies River. The new Actiflo System will assist in removing turbidity from the raw water before it enters the water plant. Regarding underground utility infrastructure, in partnership with Wilkes County Government, the Town has committed to upsizing water and sewer lines as well as installing upgraded pump stations on HWY 115 to serve growing commercial demands.

The Wilkesboro Water Treatment Plant will be improved with a raw water intake and various upgrades to support sudden increases in turbidity by adding an ActiFlo System. Also, Cub Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant is reaching capacity requiring upgrades of an AquaNereda Aerobic Granular Sludge filtration process. The advanced technology of this proprietary process will be the first facility of this type in North Carolina and will have the most stringent discharge limits in the state.

Board of Directors

2023-2024

Dale Isom, Chairman

Spectrum Hospitality, LLC

Amy Blair, Vice Chairman Blair Properties

Terry Bumgarner, Past Chairman

Bumgarner Services

Brett Cothren, Treasurer

Oakwoods Properties, LLC

Blue Ridge Real Estate Group, LLC

Keith Elmore

Wilkes County Representative

Russ Ferree

Wilkesboro Representative

Andrew Palmer

North Wilkesboro Representative

Sandra Simmons

Ronda Representative

John Cothren

Cooperative Extension Agent

Cindy Thompson

Fortress Management

Shelmer Blackburn

The Ruby Pardue Blackburn

Adult Day Health Care Center

Joe Johnston

Johnston Casuals Furniture

Ron Wilcox

Samaritan’s Purse

Luke Mathis

Mathis Concrete

Lesa Hensley

First Community Bank

Alternate Members

John Yates - Wilkes County County Manager

Ken Noland - Town of Wilkesboro Town Manager

Holly Minton - Town of North Wilkesboro Town Manager

Ex-Officio

Mark Byrd - Wilkes County Schools Superintendent

Dr. Zack Barricklow - Wilkes Community College, VP Rural Innovation & Organizational Change Interim Representative

ANNUAL EVENT SPONSORS

About Wilkes EDC

The Wilkes Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) public-private partnership.

The EDC is comprised of professional staff and a 15-member Board of Directors, three alternates, and two ex-officios. Meetings are open to the public.

Engineering Consulting Services WilkesEDC.com

Contact info@wilkesedc.com to be added to our monthly email reminder or to RSVP to a meeting.

LeeAnn Nixon President

Paula McNeil Office Administrator

Robin Hamby Vice President, CFO

Francisco Martinez Marketing Manager