Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report2021-2022
Finally, it has been my honor and privilege to serve as the Chairman of the Wilkes EDC for the past two years. It has definitely been a different time with the pandemic but we seem to have finally adapted to living with COVID-19 and the variants. I think we can certainly be proud of the progress Wilkes County has made in the midst of that very difficult and uncertain time. Our incoming Chairman, Mr. Dale Isom, is a well-respected talented businessman with vested interest in Wilkes County. It shows through all of his endeavors that he loves this community and I am proud to support him. I want to thank our President LeeAnn Nixon and Vice-President/CFO Robin Hamby as well as our volunteer board of directors for their dedication and hard work for our county. The Wilkes EDC exists ultimately to serve our community. If you need a solution for your business, please do not hesitate to contact our staff or any of our board members. I encourage all of you 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!
Hello to All:
North Wilkesboro Speedway (Project Reborn) is in the process of coming to fruition with recent visits from Governor Roy Cooper, Marcus Smith (SMI) and other distinguished NASCAR guests. As I am writing this, I am watching a Facebook Live event at the speedway with the gates opening for the first race event. It is a surreal experience to see all the racing teams coming through at the Fishing Creek Road entrance. I want to personally thank Representative Jeffery Elmore for his work in bringing revitalization funds to Wilkes for this project and the many supporters that never gave up on seeing racing return here in our county. We can make things happen if we are united together with a common goal!
Best Brettregards,D.Cothren Past Chairman 2021-2022
REFLECTING BACK
Once again your Wilkes EDC board and staff have worked hard over the past year helping our companies and citizens alike. It feels like we have some traction in many initiatives that will greatly benefit our county going forward. With the housing study that the EDC helped fund, we are seeing single and multi-family housing being built despite supply chain issues, rising interest rates and historic high material costs. We continue to see great demand for housing and property in Wilkes so I sincerely appreciate our local builders, investors and developers that are taking on the task of supplying a crucial need in the area of low housing inventory. We broke ground for the Wilkes Commercial Business Center, a 31,200 sq. ft. flex multi-tenant manufacturing facility, as part of the Wilkes LEAP forward initiative. We look forward to the completion of the facility by the end of this year. The LEAP Forward initiative is modeled after a successful program in Bladen County, NC. This past year we were pleased to congratulate our fall and spring entrepreneur grant recipients and we continue to assist them in their growth and success.
213 Ninth Street North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 (336) www.WilkesEDC.com838-1501
more sustainable economic development organization that facilitates growth and strengthens the economy. 04 Year End Activity Report Project Averages, Missed Opportunities and Business Activity Statistics 14 Special Projects Outdoor Economy, Start Your Adventure Here Campaign, NC Tech Paths and Wilkes Childcare Study Wilkes BusinessCommercialCenter Coming Soon! A Multi-tenant Workspace for Commercial or Light Industrial use Year End Review Notable Activity, Marketing Efforts and Current Local Statistics181716 Area Growth Economic Progress and Expansions within Wilkes County 06 Announced Projects 2021-2022 Announced Business Projects, Workforce and Investment Averages 08 2021-2022 Entrepreneurial Grant Winners Wilkes County Small Businesses who Received an Entrepreneurial Grant in 2021-2022 12 Housing and Accommodations Local Planned Housing Projects, Housing Statistics What’s New? This year we included QR codes! Scan the code to view the information.
Year of 2021-2022 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
County. Our Vision: Wilkes County will have a stronger
REFLECTING BACK Wilkes and
Project Averages Active and Missed PROGRAM FOCUS AREAS Existing Business Activity-Business Recruitment-Real Estate Development 4 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022 ACTIVITY REPORT YEAR END REVIEW 2021-2022 31JOBS368 SQUARETHOUSAND18FEET219 4.3ACRES62 $15.7MILLIONINVESTMENT$324M PROJECT ACTIVITY STATS Projects Opportunities - Responded 69 24 6 45 Inquiries 1 166 10 Responded Inactive Missed NorthWilkesboroCountyWilkesboro CommercialDistributionManufacturing OtherHousing 15 520 7ProjectProjectsAnnouncedType OtherCommercialManufacturing Project Inquiries by Source44DirectPartnerEDPNC 1213 3 1 3
YEAR END REVIEW 2021-2022 Most Projects Missed Due to Lack of Available Buildings and Pad-Ready Sites. Existing Business Activity Existing Business Activity 163 MEETINGSPARTNER 72 UNIQUEVISITS 61 REAL DEVELOPMENTESTATE 60 FOLLOW UP VISITS 248 SOLUTIONSPROVIDED 132 Total Visits Goal of 100 5Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022 101520302550 AvailableBuilding Pad Ready Site Acreage Rail Service Building Ready Other DistributionManufacturing Commercial
The Block– A family fun center in North Wilkesboro offers a trampoline park, ninja warrior course, roller skating rink, birthday party rooms, concession area and later adding a glow in the dark putt-putt course. The Block is located at 101 6th Street, formerly known as Town Square. This asset appeals to both local families and those from surrounding areas fulfilling an important needed amenity that improves our quality of life.
SHAMRON MFG New Business
Shamron Manufacturing– Shamron Mills, is a Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) based in Troy, New York. They specialize in providing medical garments to their clientele. Shamron acquired Wilkesboro based Hinson & Hale Technologies’ building, assets and talent. Shamron has utilized Hinson & Hale to manufacture their garments since 2015, so it was a seamless transition with local leadership that secures the future of our workforce. They seek to add employees to the operation allowing them to increase their ability to broaden their client base.
Heating & Air Service Provides expert air conditioning and heating services to residential and commercial customers since 1992. Their pur pose is to provide you with the highest level of service and workmanship to im prove the comfort and quality of your indoor space. Wilkes EDC was able to retain Carolina Comfort by assisting and overcoming a barrier to reliable internet con nectivity at their new location, 2628 River Rd Liberty Grove Rd, North Wilkesboro. A service provider was encouraged to expand their network.
Heating & Air 178 Retention/NewJobs
2021-2022Totals 7 Projects $34.7 InvestmentMillion
Carolina Comfort Heating & Air Service
Rossman Apiaries– Expanded into a building that provides larger warehouse space allowing them to increase their inventory. Rossman relocated from 318 Ninth Street to 102 Chestnut Street, Suite 103, in North Wilkesboro (near Smoot Park). Rossman offers an array of beekeeping supplies and provides knowledge that not only serves our local bee enthusiasts but clients who travel regularly from surrounding states to shop.
CarolinaExpansionComfort
6 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
ANNOUNCED PROJECTS
Rossman Apiaries Expansion
The Block New Business
The Town of North Wilkesboro completed construction on a new 500,000-gallon tank. The new tank provides the necessary water pressure and supply for the fire safety sprinkler systems at JELD-WEN Inc.’s North Wilkesboro plant expansion. It also improves the hydraulics of the town water system from RiverRoad-Liberty Grove Road to N.C. Highway 268 East, an area served by an elevated storage tank and 12-inch water main off Flint Hill Road.
Due to confidence in the improvements, Jeld-Wen has continued to expand, announcing two projects this past year. The projects increased their investment in manufacturing equipment and jobs.
7Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report EXPANSION/REVITALIZATIONANNOUNCED2021-2022PROJECTS
Speedway Motorsports Inc. (SMI) and Wilkes County Government received $18 Million from the State of North Carolina utilizing Federal American Rescue Funds to revitalize the North Wilkesboro Speedway. The state also dedicated additional funding to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to create a historic trail of racing and moonshine across the state that will certainly include Wilkes County. Racetrack Revival is underway in August 2022 with outstanding attendance. Afterward, asphalt will be removed for dirt track racing in October 2022. The complex will then be renovated, highlighting its historic significance while modernizing the facility. Wilkes County is overseeing the extension of utilities of water and sewer to the facility, while SMI will utilize the state funding, along with their additional investment during 2023 to create a retro-mod venue ready in 2024.
TOWN OF NORTH WILKESBORO AND JELD-WEN PARTNERSHIP ON 500,000-GALLON WATER TANK
Thank You Private Sponsors 8 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
Created by Coffee Designs, a retail and graphic design business in Wilkesboro, received $2,000 for the purchase of a new laptop to allow use of state of the art software. This business is owned by Danielle Addington, a graduate of Appalachian State University. Danielle offers design services to clients looking to market their businesses, as well as handmade retail items such as screen-printed shirts and custom tumblers. Visit her website, www.createdbycoffeedesigns.com, or email createdbycoffeedesigns@gmail.com for more information.
PROGRAM SPONSORS
2021-2022TheEntrepreneurial Grant
Program provides funds to Existing Businesses for Expansion, and those who plan on Starting a Business in Wilkes County. Applicants are asked to submit a business plan that describes how the grant funds will be used to grow or start their business, as well as a video pitch of their request.
Fall 2021 Entrepreneurial Grant Winners
Crosswoods Lumber is a mobile sawmill business created by Michael Hodges of North Wilkesboro. Michael received $3,000 for the purchase of the steel he needed to finish building his sawmill. This mobilized service allows clients to have smaller amounts of lumber cut at their property instead of having to travel to a larger sawmill. Hodges expressed the need for this since larger operations usually require large amounts of wood before they will process it. He hopes that this business will allow clients to utilize trees that may have sentimental value while also saving money. Contact Michael by emailing him, crosswoodslumber@gmail.com, or via phone at (336) 902-5981.
Since 2015, the program has infused $113,980 and assisted 48 entrepreneurs.
ENTREPRENEURIAL GRANT WINNERS
ENTREPRENEURIAL GRANT WINNERS2021-2022
Steps 2 Grow LLC, owned by Austen Lincoln, nurtures natural child development, and promotes developmental wellness through direct occupational therapy evaluation and intervention with children, consultation with parents, and online trainings. This in-home occupational therapy (OT) supports children at risk for delays or those with conditions impacting development. Austen’s mission is to help parents identify their child’s strengths and areas of challenge, help them navigate the “messy and magical” seasons of a child’s motor development. Steps 2 Grow received $1,500 for the purchase of new materials needed to help expand her current services. If you are interested in contacting Steps 2 Grow, visit steps2grow.com.
Top Knot Salon, located at 102 Wilkesboro Avenue in North Wilkesboro, is proudly owned by Erica Scearce. Erica has worked in the beauty industry for 13 years and was able to purchase the salon from its previous owner in the summer of 2021. Top Knot received $1,000 to purchase new styling chairs, which will add an opening for an additional stylist. Scearce plans to continue to expand the business by eventually hiring a massage therapist and esthetician so that all their current and future clients’ needs are met. Find Top Knot Salon on Facebook, call (336) 667-9550 to schedule an appointment, or email Erica for more information.
The Meat Sweats is a Veteran-Owned meat processing business started by Jason and Chantelle Sargood. The Meat Sweats will be processing wild game and domestic livestock but will also offer products for sale in their retail store located at 1016 West D Street in North Wilkesboro. Jason and Chantelle received $2,000 to purchase a cooler for their retail meat selection. Find them on Facebook to contact, or email tms.sargood@yahoo.com.
9Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
Redding Homestead Vineyard, formerly Windy Gap Vineyard on Pardue Road in Ronda, was purchased by Mitchell Welborn and his wife Kelsey Redding Welborn. The 5-acre vineyard currently operates to supply grapes for wineries in the Yadkin Valley region. Currently, they have several varietals of grapes that are actively producing; however, they received $2,500 toward the purchase of 500 Chardonelle vines to replace the current 20-year-old Chambourcin ones that are under producing. The Welborns plan to expand the vineyard to also include bee colonies and possibly fruit trees in the future. Contact Redding Homestead by emailing mswelborn92@gmail.com.
10 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
Journey Well Thai Yoga Massage, located at 807 Main Street, Suite A in North Wilkesboro, offers traditional Thai Yoga Massage, Prenatal and Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage. Owner Anna Thompson began her Thai Yoga Massage practice after discovering a passion for culture and inclusion on her many travels. Thompson received a $1,500 grant to go toward the cost of Grief and Trauma training to further expand the therapeutic services she offers. Anna says that she also hopes to use the training to help educate her employees on trauma-informed care. To learn more about this business or to book a session at Journey Well, please visit www.wejourneywell.com.
Spring 2022 Entrepreneurial Grant Winners
ENTREPRENEURIAL GRANT WINNERS 2021-2022
Vernon’s Cake Carousel has been providing delicious baked goods and custom cakes for clients since 2020. Vernon’s, located at 1260 College Avenue Suite 7 in Wilkesboro, has continued to expand over the past year. Owner Vernon Tilley received $2,000 to purchase a new cooler for his bakery that will increase storage space for orders and allow his employees to maximize their efforts. Stop in and taste a number of delectable treats, or email vernonscakecarousel@gmail.com for custom ordering information.
The Green Cleaners, owned by Katie Reynolds of North Wilkesboro, is a mobile cleaning service specializing in chemicalfree cleaning products that also remove allergens. Reynolds opened this business in 2019, which offers a variety of cleaning services for residential homes and vacation rental properties. The Green Cleaners received a total grant amount of $1,600. $800 will be used to purchase booking and point-of-sale software for their website, and $800 will be used to purchase an interactive training video for staff. Visit www.thegreencleaners.us to inquire about their services and the history of the business.
Wilkes Wags & Wiggles is a new business started in Wilkes by Amanda Cowles. Wilkes Wags & Wiggles will offer boarding services, and personalized drop-in care in a safe environment for their clients’ furry friends. Amanda received $3,000 in grant funds to purchase point-of-sale CRM software program for booking, and storefront sign once her location is secured. Wilkes Wags & Wiggles plans to announce their location to the community soon. To receive updates, or learn more about their services, visit www.wilkeswagsandwiggles.com.
Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022 11 Visit our website to learn more about our Entrepreneurial Grant Program and winners. Scan the QR code.
ENTREPRENEURIAL GRANT WINNERS2021-2022
Stardust Cellars was previously awarded an Entrepreneurial Grant in 2019 which allowed them to manufacture and distribute their line of custom Meads. Since then, owner Nick Von Cosmos has secured contracts with retail stores statewide and continues to expand. This year’s application requested grant funds to help increase their available inventory in order to meet current customer demand and expand their retail presence. Stardust Cellars was awarded $1,000 for purchasing local honey, bottles and labels needed to give them the opportunity to expand. For more on their winemaking process, go to www.stardustcellars.com or visit their location at 1202 Curtis Bridge Road in Wilkesboro.
Swan Creek Acres, located at 850 Pinnix Road in Jonesville, is a diversified vegetable farm located in eastern Wilkes County. Owner Kris Schultz shared that the farm’s format is largely based on growing under High Tunnel structures to better control the growing environment and extend the harvesting season to allow for wholesale orders. Currently, they sell their produce at local Farmers Markets and supply to local restaurants. Swan Creek Acres received $1,500 to purchase an IOT irrigation system, which will allow them to increase production and begin fulfilling wholesale orders. To contact Kris, send an email to KSchultz055@gmail.com.
New Journey Farm located at 1702 South Lomax Road in Ronda, NC, is a for profit rescue farm that rehabilitates equines who have been neglected, sold for slaughter, or injured, and re-homes them safely. Owner Jessica Bell says that most of the donkeys and horses rescued are retired from racing or were used on farms to plow or provide transportation. Once they are re-homed, these animals usually become full-use horses or emotional support animals. New Journey Farm was awarded $1,500 for needed updates to their barn and establish a system that brings water to each of the stalls. Their goal is to continue to meet the need for equine rescues in Wilkes County, heal and rehab the animals, and connect them with loving forever homes. For information on New Arrivals, becoming a Sponsor, or adopting and animalwww.newjourneyfarmandequinerescue.com.visit
WilkesHOUSINGEDCContinues to Promote Housing Study
Wilkes EDC, in partnership with the Wilkes Chapter of the Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®️ (WSRAR) and the North Carolina Homeowners Alliance (NCHA), commissioned Bowen National Research in the Summer of 2020 to conduct a Housing Study in Wilkes County, NC. The study considered various demographic, economic and housing metrics, as well as other factors that impact and influence housing. The full study can be found on the Wilkes EDC website. A few of the highlights and key points from the assessment include:
Townhomes
Need exists for rentals.additional995
Need exists for 1,511 forsale units.
Nearly becoulddailyintocommuters10,000traveltheCountyforworkwhopotentiallyresidents.
12 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
Responding to the need for increased housing in our area, Cam Finley of Finley Properties is nearing completion of 10 Townhomes at 100 Court Square, behind the Wilkes Heritage Museum in Wilkesboro. The average price will be in the mid-range of $300,000 and contain 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths of approximately 2,100 sq. ft. with double garages. Units will be sold individually with seven units facing North Bridge Street and three facing Hardin Hill Street. In addition to Court Square, Finley also has broken ground behind the former Bank of America site at 200 Main Street, Wilkesboro on 5 additional townhomes. These will be slightly larger, having approximately 2,400 sq. ft. with the owner’s suite located on the main floor. Completion is planned for early Q1, 2023.
The dual-branding allows for two hotels to occupy one building to offer both long-term stay rooms with kitchens and other features, as well as meet the needs for shorter stays.
Wilkesboro-based Spectrum Hospitality announced plans to renovate and rebrand the former Red Carpet Inn in Wilkesboro as the new Red Roof Inn and Suites.
The franchise for the 80-room hotel was awarded by Red Roof Inn for the Spectrum Hospitality property. It is located on N.C. 268 West (River Street), just west of the U.S. 421/N.C. 268 West interchange.
The new hotel will have 52 extended stay rooms in the TownePlace Suites by Marriott and 52 traditional hotel rooms in the Fairfield Inn by Marriott.
Wilkes Residential Building Permits Increase Despite Material Cost Surge Permits for single-family homes January to August compared to similar months in prior years 2019 57 PermitsAverageIssuedSize: 1,946 sf 2020 52 PermitsAverageIssuedSize: 1,982 sf 2021 91 PermitsAverageIssuedSize: 1,934 sf 2022 72 PermitsAverageIssuedSize: 2,051 sf Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022 13 ACCOMMODATIONS
PLANS NEW MARRIOTT HOTELS IN WILKESBORO
Marriott International awarded the franchise for building the 104-room hotel on Spectrum’s property behind the Olive Garden Restaurant on U.S. 421 West.
RED ROOF INN AND SUITES AND SPECTRUM HOSPITALITY
Plans call for the full-renovated Red Roof Inn and Suites to have eight two-room suites, 72 traditional hotel rooms, upscale lobby and breakfast area, modern fitness center, guest laundry and an outdoor recreation area.
“It will feature an indoor saline pool, a large 24-hour fitness center, outdoor recreation areas and a small lounge on the top floor with views of the Brushy Mountains and many other modern amenities, including an upscale lobby and meeting spaces,” said Dale Isom.
OUTDOOR ECONOMY
“Elevating Quality of Life and the Economy Through The Outdoors” Learn more about the Action Plan at: www.WilkesOutdoorActionPlan.com While working on the Outdoor Action Plan, Wilkes EDC continues to encourage start-ups, entrepreneurship and recruitment of businesses that utilize and appreciate our local outdoor amenities through the marketing campaign. Help us spread the word by using #WhyWilkes and sharing our posts on social media! 14 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
The Great State of Wilkes Outdoor Recreation Action Plan creates a roadmap to ensure strategic decision-making and grow the outdoor economy. The plan focuses on recreation infrastructure projects such as trails, greenways, destination-quality parks, attractive downtowns, and the creation of multiuse public spaces suitable for major events and festivals. The Boros River District evolved during the process and the possibility of its creation is underway. Many other recommendations across the county will contribute significantly to the quality of life for local residents, help attract visitors and grow businesses.
ThisProgram
In June 2022, The Leonard G. Herring Family Foundation announced the funding of a comprehensive childcare study for Wilkes County and the organization of a taskforce to guide its progress. The study will document existing services and resources, then recommend steps to create an innovative childcare ecosystem in Wilkes County, NC to enhance the labor force participation and create a healthy environment for families. The study will also identify the roles that community stakeholders could play in order to expand access and affordability for quality care.
ProgramsDegree-Seeking
Fundedby
ProgramsAcceleratedShort-Term ProgramsPart-TimeSelf-Paced
Learn more and get involved by scanning the QR code!
15Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
We offer various educational pathways leading to in-demand tech jobs, including: NC Tech Paths will meet you where you are and support you each step of the way.
LIVE. TRAIN. REMAIN.
NC TECH PATHS
Build a successful tech career, right here at home! We’re here to help.
WILKES CHILDCARE STUDY is
“Improving access, quality, and affordability of childcare in Wilkes County is both a social and economic imperative,” said Craig DeLucia, CEO of the Herring Family Foundation... By estimating projected growth, the study will be able to determine what needs will arise from the community in terms of population, childcare and workforce in addition to the gaps that already exist. It will also research innovative childcare systems that could provide widespread benefits to both citizens and local employers.
16 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
WILKES COMMERCIAL BUSINESS CENTER
This will solve current project demand based on reliable data collected locally, where companies are searching for new facilities that are not available. The Business Center will support retention and growth of jobs and companies. Funds received from lease income would be utilized for maintenance and expanding the program to create additional innovation centers in the future.
Economic development efforts are hampered as sites and available buildings for expanding businesses are scarce. Many are unable to wait for construction. Immediate market demand compels them to consider leaving the area. The Wilkes EDC received a $1.5 million grant from Golden LEAF and a $1.9 million match contributed by Wilkes County to fund a solution to these issues in our area.
• Received Golden LEAF Foundation’s Site Identification Grant
• Chosen for NC Secretary of State’s Pilot Program RuralRISE Supporting New Growth Hosted 26 New Businesses, Site Selectors and Partners as Guests During MerleFest
• Became a Recovery Friendly Workplace with Wilkes Recovery Revolution
Attendees were broken up into three groups, based on preferences they indicated during registration. Each group focused on certain factors as they relate to attracting or retaining workforce: Group #1 was Childcare, Housing & Transportation, #2 Poverty, Domestic Violence & Substance Abuse, and #3 Policies, Perks, Pay Scale & Culture. Work-Life Balance, Adequate Pay, Access to Childcare and Transportation, Development, Person-Centered Workplaces, Remote Working, and Second Chance Hiring were some of the many listed recommendations from participants in each group.
WORKFORCE SUMMIT
We encourage you to link to the guide, contact us to provide us with your information or scan the QR code to view the guide.
Also announced was the Wilkes County Workforce Resource Guide, available on the EDC’s website, which combines resources for employers and those seeking employment.
• Carolina Core Engagement to Encourage Hwy. 421 Becoming an Interstate
• Airport Video Released (view video by scanning QR code)
On March 17th, Wilkes EDC in partnership with the High Country Workforce Development Board held the first Wilkes Workforce Summit. Over 1 00 Business, Community, and Resource Leaders registered to attend the event. Keynote Speaker Dr. Harry Davis, PhD, Professor of Finance at Appalachian State University, gave an overview of the economic trends affect ing workforce. After Dr. Davis’s presentation, Resource Partners representing various local and regional organizations, such as Vocational Rehab, Re-Entry, Apprenticeships and On-the-Job-Training all gave a 60-second overview of services they offer that people may not be aware of.
YEAR END REVIEW 2021-2022
NOTABLE ACTIVITIES
Business
• Participated in the NWNC Vision 2022 Summit
•
• Coordinated a Sewing Industry Cluster Meeting with Wilkes Community College
17Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
• Engaged with Wilkes Chapter of Winston-Salem Realtors Association
Samaritan’s Purse is currently building two new facilities at its North Wilkesboro campus. Both are in site preparation phase, with Vannoy Construction of West Jefferson, NC., serving as general contractor.
18 Wilkes Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2021-2022
A few notable restaurant additions in our community are Fazoli’s, Taco Bell, Short Stop’s Burgers and Shakes, Pelican SnoBalls, along with the retail addition of Roses.
Wilkes County Government
Has completed a $1.3 million Fire Suppression project at the Wilkes County Airport. In addition, they are currently under construction for a 10 bay T-Hanger and in the design stage for a second 10 bay T-Hangar. Work continues with NC DOT toward the runway extension. Wilkes is seeing growth at the Airport with both local and regional businesses. Wilkes County has also completed two EMS sub-stations and are currently under construction for an Emergency Service Center Main Base at this time. A burn building is being added at the Fire Training Grounds to help Fire Departments with their training. Wilkes County was awarded a Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant to construct a picnic shelter and restrooms at Rivers Edge. Wilkes County is very proud to have been awarded $18 million for the Motorsport Relief Fund for the North Wilkesboro Speedway.
Revitalization projects occurred on the courts at Memorial Park, Euclid Avenue Trail, 919 Main Street. Additional projects in the works for 2022-2023 are; water line extension to the Wilkes Commercial Business Center off Hwy 268, Accuflow at the water treatment plant, the water tank at the Wilkes Industrial Park, the water intake project on the Yadkin River and the Smoot Park Revitalization project.
Looking back, the Woodfield Bridge replacement was completed. Utilities were extended at Two Rivers for new development. Six new pickle ball courts were completed. Currently, upgrading of streets and utilities around two townhome projects in downtown are underway. The planned expansion of the wastewater plant design is at 30% completion. Looking forward, the Town received a Recreational Trails Program Grant to add two miles of additional trails at Cub Creek which will begin 4Q 2022. Design of Phase 2 of downtown revitalization (power lines, streetscape, etc.) is expected to begin. Also, the Taco Bell stormwater remediation project begins early 4Q 2022 and Bryant Village utilities. The Cub Creek Sewer Outfall is expected to be completed in October 2022. The first phase of the Cub Creek Inclusive Playground is to be completed by 4Q 2022. Additionally, planned operational upgrades at the water plant are 100% complete and waiting on state funding.
Is in the process of completing a project to Don Sparks Poultry in Roaring River off Hwy. 268 and ending on Poplar Springs Road. Also, an expansion is underway in Finley Park, North Wilkesboro, and an expansion from S. Bridge St. to E. Main Street in Wilkesboro.
AREA GROWTH
Samaritan’s Purse
Town of North Wilkesboro
Town of Wilkesboro
Local Restaurant & Retail Additions
The Samaritan Inn project will be a 29-bed hotel-type structure, designed to provide short-term lodging accommodations primarily for the many staff and volunteers who come to the Wilkes campus for ministry training, orientation, and conferences. Completion is expected in December 2023. The second project is a 75,000 square-foot warehouse facility with office space for staff. It is designed to expand the ministry’s capacity to respond to the ever-increasing crises around the globe.
Frontier Natural Gas
I could go on and on as we see so many opportunities for growth in our community. We live in one of the most beautiful regions in the State of North Carolina. We are blessed with countless resources and the best workforce available. The future is bright! Let’s join together with the goal of more and better jobs for our fellow citizens. I appreciate your efforts and support of the Wilkes Economic Development Corporation.
Being selected to serve as the Board Chairman for the Wilkes Economic Development Corporation is an honor and a challenge. I moved to Wilkes County when I was 14, attended West Wilkes High School and Wilkes Community College and I feel blessed to call this beautiful community my home. I’ve scooped ice cream, worked at Sky City, built homes with Sherril Faw, engineered chicken plants with Holly Farms, developed shopping centers with JC Faw, designed many projects with Isom Ham Design Group and built and renovated local hotels with Spectrum Hospitality. Wilkes has been a wonderful place to marry, raise a family, pursue a career and grow old together with my wife, Michelle. I say all of that to communicate why Wilkes is a wonderful place to start a business, grow a business, relocate a business and live a meaningful life.
Welcome Everyone,
Having served several years on the Board of Directors, I have watched two very effective leaders serve as Chair. Terry Bumgarner and Brett Cothren led the organization well and I am thankful to have them continue to serve and guide as Board members. The Wilkes EDC exists to serve our community. We work together with our local governments and elected officials, our school system, Wilkes Community College and local businesses to serve the citizens of Wilkes County. We serve with the goals of job creation, industry diversification, business retention and expansion, economy fortification, increased tax revenue and improved quality of life. All of these goals are centered around helping the people of Wilkes County achieve their dreams right here at home.
The past few years have been both a challenge and a blessing as our nation has dealt with the pandemic. While this caused economic hardship at both the business level and personal level, it also served to make people aware of the benefits of living and working in places like Wilkes County. As a result, we continue to see new businesses start and people moving to Wilkes County.
MOVING FORWARD
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For me, having grown up attending races at the North Wilkesboro Speedway, hearing the engines roar once again is a nod to the past, but also a hope for the future. This renovated facility will bring jobs and tourism back after 26 years of waiting and hoping. We are in the process of completing the Wilkes County Business Center this fall and will soon have two businesses occupying this facility bringing new, better paying jobs to our community. We have undertaken the effort to bring together the right people and resources to understand the Childcare needs of the community and help provide solutions to parents wanting to return to work. The Health Foundation undertook the task of generating an Outdoor Economy plan that has the potential to change Wilkes in many ways. The EDC is thankful for their leadership and long hours of work to produce this far-reaching plan and we look forward to utilizing the results to assist us in reaching out to companies that are looking for a home that provides outdoor resources to its’ employees and the community.
Incoming Chairman 2022-2023
DaleSincerely,L.Isom
Board of Dale2022-2023DirectorsIsom, Chairman Spectrum Hospitality, LLC Terry Bumgarner, Vice Chairman Bumgarner Services Brett Cothren, Past Chair 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 George Smith Copper Barrel Distillery John Cothren NC State Cooperative Extension Matthew Daye Surrey Bank (Retired) Ron Wilcox Samaritan’s Purse Shelmer Blackburn The Ruby Pardue Blackburn Adult Day Health Care Center Luke Mathis Mathis Concrete Amy Blair Blair Properties Joe Johnston Johnston Casuals Furniture About Us 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. The meetings are open to the public. Please let us know if you would like to be added to our monthly email reminder or plan to attend the meeting by sending a request Info@WilkesEDC.com.to ANNUAL EVENT SPONSORSSoutheast,LLP Robin Hamby LeeAnn Nixon Paula McNeil - Urban League This publication was designed by Francisco Martinez
