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type: document
title: PDC-Profile
file: ../PDC-Profile.pdf
tags:
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Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 1
1. BACKGROUND-REGIONS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SITUATION
A. General Description of Area
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is in Southwest Virginia and
encompasses the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell. The
District borders West Virginia on the north and Kentucky on the northeast. Wise,
Scott, Washington, Smyth and Bland Counties in Virginia form the boundaries on
the west, south, and east. The District is 67 miles long and 40 miles wide and covers
approximately 1,848 square miles.
The District is divided into two physiographically distinct regions, both lying
in the Appalachian Highlands. The counties of Buchanan and Dickenson, along with
the northern portions of Russell and Tazewell Counties, lie in the Cumberland
Plateau which is, in turn, a part of the Appalachian Plateau. This area has a
uniformly mountainous surface characterized by many small streams separated by
sharply rising ridges, steep slopes, and narrow valleys. The remaining region of the
District, comprising the greater portion of Russell and Tazewell Counties, lies in the
Valley and Ridge Province of the Appalachian Highlands. This belt, consisting of
alternate valleys and ridges is bordered on the south by the Clinch Mountains and on
the north by the Cumberland Plateau.
Elevations vary from 845 feet above sea level where the Levisa Fork crosses
into Kentucky to 4,705 feet atop Garden Mountain in the southeastern part of the
District near the Bland County line. The most prominent physiographic features in
the District are Clinch Mountain, Breaks of the Cumberland, Burkes Garden, Big A
Mountain, and Pine Mountain.
1, | BACKGROUND-REGIONS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SITUATION
A. General Description of Area
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is in Southwest Virginia and
encompasses the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell. The
District borders West Virginia on the north and Kentucky on the northeast. Wise,
Scott, Washington, Smyth and Bland Counties in Virginia form the boundaries on
the west, south, and east. The District is 67 miles long and 40 miles wide and covers
approximately 1,848 square miles.
The District is divided into two physiographically distinct regions, both lying
in the Appalachian Highlands. The counties of Buchanan and Dickenson, along with
the northern portions of Russell and Tazewell Counties, lie in the Cumberland
Plateau which is, in turn, a part of the Appalachian Plateau. This area has a
uniformly mountainous surface characterized by many small streams separated by
sharply rising ridges, steep slopes, and narrow valleys. The remaining region of the
District, comprising the greater portion of Russell and Tazewell Counties, lies in the
Valley and Ridge Province of the Appalachian Highlands. This belt, consisting of
alternate valleys and ridges is bordered on the south by the Clinch Mountains and on
the north by the Cumberland Plateau.
Elevations vary from 845 feet above sea level where the Levisa Fork crosses
into Kentucky to 4,705 feet atop Garden Mountain in the southeastern part of the
District near the Bland County line. The most prominent physiographic features in
the District are Clinch Mountain, Breaks of the Cumberland, Burkes Garden, Big A
Mountain, and Pine Mountain.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 1
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 2
Comparatively smooth to moderately sloping uplands are found in places in
the southern and southeastern portions of the District. The northern and
northwestern portions of the District are areas that have been thoroughly dissected
by streams, with the result that the land features consist of steep ridges and narrow
valleys. There is practically no smooth upland or lowland in this area.
The southern section of the District lies in the Clinch River Basin. The
northern portion of the District lies in the Big Sandy River Basin. Numerous creeks
and branches in all parts of the district afford a good drainage system for the upland
areas. The only poorly drained areas are in the flat, low places near some of the
streams.
Approximately 80 percent of the District in the Cumberland Plateau region is
covered by forest. The portion of the District that lies in the ridge and valley
province is approximately 50 percent forest cover and 50 percent grass and pasture
land. The District is served by three major U. S. Highways, nine primary state
highways, and numerous state secondary highways. No interstate highways pass
through the District. U. S. 19 is a major north-south highway that runs from Erie,
Pennsylvania to St. Petersburg, Florida; U. S. 460 is an east-west highway that runs
from Norfolk, Virginia to St. Louis, Missouri; and U. S. 58 is an east-west highway
that runs from Norfolk, Virginia to Middlesboro, Kentucky. State primary and
secondary highways provide intra-district access, as well as access to points in
neighboring counties and West Virginia and Kentucky. From Lebanon, it is twenty
miles to I-81, in Abingdon, Virginia and 65 miles from I-77 in Bluefield, West
Virginia.
Comparatively smooth to moderately sloping uplands are found
places in
the southern and southeastern portions of the District. The northern and
northwestern portions of the D are areas that have been thoroughly dissected
by streams, with the result that the land features consist of steep ridges and narrow
valleys. There is practically no smooth upland or lowland in this area.
The southern section of the District lies in the Clinch River Basin. The
northern portion of the District lies in the Big Sandy River Basin, Numerous creeks
and branches in all parts of the district afford a good drainage system for the upland
areas. The only poorly drained areas are in the flat, low places near some of the
streams.
Approximately 80 percent of the District in the Cumberland Plateau region is
covered by forest. The portion of the District that lies in the ridge and valley
province is approximately 50 percent forest cover and 50 percent grass and pasture
land. The District is served by three major U. S. Highways, nine primary state
highways, and numerous state secondary highways. No interstate highways pass
through the District. U. S. 19 is a major north-south highway that runs from Erie,
Pennsylvania to St. Petersburg, Florida; U. S. 460 is an east-west highway that runs
from Norfolk, Virginia to St. Louis, Missouri; and U. S. 58 is an east-west highway
that runs from Norfolk, Virginia to Middlesboro, Kentucky. State primary and
secondary highways provide intra-district access, as well as access to points in
neighboring counties and West Virginia and Kentucky. From Lebanon, it is twenty
miles to I-81, in Abingdon, Virginia and 65 miles from I-77 in Bluefield, West
Virginia.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 2
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 3
Distances from Lebanon where the Planning District office is located to
major cities are as follows:
Atlanta 350 miles
Chicago 575 miles
New York City 585 miles
Norfolk 360 miles
Richmond 280 miles
Pittsburgh 385 miles
Washington, D. C. 350 miles
Figures 1 and 2 are maps showing the Planning District and the surrounding
counties and its location in the Southeastern portion of the United States.
B. Natural Resources
In the Cumberland Plateau, four natural resources are of major importance -
coal, hardwoods, natural gas and agricultural land. Each of these resources will be
briefly discussed.
Coal: As shown in Table 1 and Table 2, coal remains to be an abundant
resource and source of employment for the Planning District. Conventional wisdom
has long held that resources can support current production for many more years.
The U. S. Department of Energy has estimated that there are 848 million tons of
recoverable reserves in Virginia at present. Based on the Static Reserve Index
(Reserves current annual production) the reserves would be depleted in 37 years.
Coal mining will remain as one of the major economic activities in the
planning district for the foreseeable future. The uncertainty with regard to coal
Distances from Lebanon where the Planning District office is located to
major cities are as follows:
Atlanta 350 miles
Chicago 575 miles
New York City 585 miles
Norfolk 360 miles
Richmond 280 miles
Pittsburgh 385 miles
Washington, D.C. 350 miles
Figures 1 and 2 are maps showing the Planning District and the surrounding
counties and its location in the Southeastern portion of the United States.
B. _ Natural Resources
In the Cumberland Plateau, four natural resources are of major importance -
coal, hardwoods, natural gas and agricultural land. Each of these resources will be
briefly discussed.
Coal: As shown in Table 1 and Table 2, coal remains to be an abundant
resource and source of employment for the Planning District. Conventional wisdom
has long held that resources can support current production for many more years.
The U. S. Department of Energy has estimated that there are 848 mi
ion tons of
recoverable reserves in Virginia at present. Based on the Static Reserve Index
(Reserves current annual production) the reserves would be depleted in 37 years.
Coal mining will remain as one of the major economic acti
ies in the
planning district for the foreseeable future. The uncertainty with regard to coal
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 3
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 4
Figure 1
Cumberland Plateau Planning District
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 4
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 5
Figure 2
Figure 2
CUMBERLAND PLATEAU
PLANNING DISTRICT
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 5
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 6
Table 1
1990 - 2016 Coal Production (Tons)
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell PDC Total
1990 20,938,340 6,686,984 926,249 3,716,869 32,268,442
1991 17,479,189 5,857,352 1,114,282 3,921,886 28,372,709
1992 17,962,757 6,360,976 1,094,510 3,534,018 28,952,261
1993 13,958,036 5,516,515 1,552,558 2,862,372 23,889,481
1994 13,594,006 4,303,346 1,467,694 2,481,842 21,846,888
1995 13,791,629 2,704,253 1,728,600 2,156,220 20,380,702
1996 14,783,931 2,988,258 1,345,502 1,839,618 20,957,309
1997 14,224,401 3,699,032 696,401 1,699,083 20,318,917
1998 12,467,167 4,021,151 705,429 1,806,652 19,000,399
1999 10,655,918 4,168,329 394,430 2,069,730 17,288,407
2000 11,154,684 4,259,431 156,525 1,469,825 17,040,465
2001 11,589,519 3,230,718 665,065 1,626,539 17,111,841
2002 10,048,222 2,779,463 556,557 1,435,455 14,819,697
2003 10,812,659 2,735,067 555,534 1,293,990 15,397,250
2004 10,347,697 2,564,014 489,984 1,335,068 14,736,763
2005 7,756,474 2,566,576 952,366 1,237,844 12,513,260
2006 10,180,930 2,582,717 980,663 1,349,704 15,094,014
2007 7,777,265 2,139,842 1,072,568 1,165,052 12,154,727
2008 8,438,897 2,070,185 1,133,535 744,959 12,387,576
2009 6,799,719 1,384,909 1,031,003 836,322 10,051,953
2010 8,744,056 1,058,819 726,205 943,236 11,472,316
2011 9,315,749 1,331,667 881,376 1,118,585 12,647,377
2012 7,183,857 3,412,332 725,511 1,410,408 12,732,108
2013 7,695,116 3,542,761 397,957 1,248,095 12,883,929
2014 7,224,000 3,466,000 280,000 1,325,000 12,295,000
2015 7,100,586 3,585,016 348,866 728,966 11,763,434
2016 7,429,542 3,500,698 179,268 250,145 11,359,653
Source: Department of Mines Minerals and Energy
1990 - 2016 Coal Production (Tons)
Table 1
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell PDC Total
1990 20,938,340 6,686,984 926,249 3,716,869 32,268,442
1991 17,479,189 5,857,352 1,114,282 3,921,886 28,372,709
1992 17,962,757 6,360,976 1,094,510 3,534,018 28,952,261
1993 13,958,036 5,516,515 1,552,558 2,862,372 23,889,481
1994 13,594,006 4,303,346 1,467,694 2,481,842 21,846,888
1995 13,791,629 2,704,253 1,728,600 2,156,220 20,380,702
1996 14,783,931 2,988,258 1,345,502 1,839,618 20,957,309
1997 14,224,401 3,699,032 696,401 1,699,083 20,318,917
1998 12,467,167 4,021,151 705,429 1,806,652 19,000,399
1999 10,655,918 4,168,329 394,430 2,069,730 17,288,407
2000 11,154,684 4,259,431 156,525 1,469,825 17,040,465
2001 11,589,519 3,230,718 665,065 1,626,539 17,111,841
2002 10,048,222 2,779,463 556,557 1,435,455 14,819,697
2003 10,812,659 2,735,067 555,534 1,293,990 15,397,250
2004 10,347,697 2,564,014 489,984 1,335,068 14,736,763
2005 7,756,474 2,566,576 952,366 1,237,844 12,513,260
2006 10,180,930 2,582,717 980,663 1,349,704 15,094,014
2007 7,777,265 2,139,842 1,072,568 1,165,052 12,154,727
2008 8,438,897 2,070,185 1,133,535 744,959 12,387,576
2009 6,799,719 1,384,909 1,031,003 836,322 10,051,953
2010 8,744,056 1,058,819 726,205 943,236 11,472,316
2011 9,315,749 1,331,667 881,376 1,118,585 12,647,377
2012 7,183,857 3,412,332 725,511 1,410,408 12,732,108
2013 7,695,116 3,542,761 397,957 1,248,095 12,883,929
2014 7,224,000 3,466,000 280,000 1,325,000 12,295,000
2015 7,100,586 3,585,016 348,866 728,966 11,763,434
2016 7,429,542 3,500,698 179,268 250,145 11,359,653
Source: Department of Mines Minerals and Energy
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 6
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 7
Table 2
2001 to 2016 Mine Employment Data for PDC
Year Average Employees Labor Hours Tonnage Annual
2001 2,770 5,720,006 17,111,841
2002 2,503 4,892,852 14,819,697
2003 2,204 4,702,403 15,397,250
2004 2,364 5,069,337 14,736,763
2005 2,541 5,236,048 12,513,260
2006 2,652 5,662,523 15,094,014
2007 2,413 5,122,625 14,154,727
2008 2,604 5,753,573 12,387,576
2009 2,447 5,019,815 10,051,953
2010 2,610 6,018,567 11,472,316
2011 2,765 6,687,826 12,647,377
2012 3,346 7,356,641 12,732,108
2013 3,124 6,752,199 12,883,929
2014 2,685 5,852,779 12,294,070
2015 2,227 4,863,208 11,763,434
2016 1,913 4,214,410 11,359,653
Source: Department of Mines Minerals and Energy
reserves should, however, increase the effort of the planning district in its economic
diversification activities.
Hardwoods: Most of the area in the Cumberland Plateau is either covered by
or suitable for hardwood forest growth. Approximately 84 percent of the hardwood
area is owned by private interest, making the district an ideal location for
manufacturers of high quality wood products. It also means that a long range
development plan should be prepared if the district environment is to be protected.
The following table shows the annual growth and removal of hardwood saw
timber.
Table 2
2001 to 2016 Mine Employment Data for PDC
Year Average Employees Labor Hours Tonnage Annual
2001 2,770 5,720,006 17,111,841
2002 2,503 4,892,852 14,819,697
2003 2,204 4,702,403 15,397,250
2004 2,364 5,069,337 14,736,763
2005 2,541 5,236,048 12,513,260
2006 2,652 5,662,523 15,094,014
2007 2,413 5,122,625 14,154,727
2008 2,604 5,753,573 12,387,576
2009 2,447 5,019,815 10,051,953
2010 2,610 6,018,567 11,472,316
2011 2,765 6,687,826 12,647,377
2012 3,346 7,356,641 12,732,108
2013 3,124 6,752,199 12,883,929
2014 2,685 5,852,779 12,294,070
2015 2,227 4,863,208 11,763,434
2016 1,913 4,214,410 11,359,653,
Source: Department of Mines Minerals and Energy
reserves should, however, increase the effort of the planning district in its economic
diversification act
ies.
Hardwoods: Most of the area in the Cumberland Plateau is either covered by
or suitable for hardwood forest growth. Approximately 84 percent of the hardwood
area is owned by private interest, making the district an ideal location for
manufacturers of high quality wood products. It also means that a long range
development plan should be prepared if the district environment is to be protected.
The following table shows the annual growth and removal of hardwood saw
timber.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 7
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 8
TABLE 3
Timber Growth and Removal in Board Feet
County
Growth
Removals
Surplus
Buchanan
Dickenson
Russell
Tazewell
16,309,565
12,030,494
8,020,969
12,783,269
9,475,846
7,000,933
5,802,265
2,432,594
6,833,719
5,029,561
2,218,704
10,350,675
TOTAL 49,144,298 24,711,637 24,432,661
Source: US Forest Service, Southern Research Station - Forest Inventory, 2011
The District is in the center of the Central Appalachian region that is home to
some of the highest quality hardwoods in the world. The region is also the home for
an effort to reintroduce the American Chestnut focused on strip mined lands.
The region's timber source could support greater utilization and would
provide much needed jobs.
Natural Gas: A major portion of the known gas fields in Virginia are located
in the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. In fact about 91 percent of the state’s
annual production occurs in the District, with Buchanan County (56%) and
Dickenson County (23%) leading the way. Natural gas has been produced in the
district since 1930 and production has increased dramatically from the mid-to-late
1990's and 2000's as shown in Table 4.
Most analysts foresee natural gas as a growing source of energy in the U.S.
While not that many jobs have been created as the Cumberland Plateau gas
fields have been developed, local and state governments benefit greatly from gas
severance taxes and revenue from industry-related real estate taxes.
Agricultural Land: According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture (See
Table 5), there are 1,829 farms in the Cumberland Plateau. Cattle and sheep are the
TABLE 3
Timber Growth and Removal in Board Feet
County Growth Removals Surplus
Buchanan 16,309,565 9,475,846 6,833,719
Dickenson 12,030,494 7,000,933 5,029,561
Russell 8,020,969 5,802,265 2,218,704
Tazewell 12,783,269 2,432,594 10,350,675,
TOTAL 49,144,298 24,711,637 24,432,661
Source: US Forest Service, Southern Research Station - Forest Inventory, 2011
The District is in the center of the Central Appalachian region that is home to
some of the highest quality hardwoods in the world. The region is also the home for
an effort to reintroduce the American Chestnut focused on strip mined lands.
The region's timber source could support greater utilization and would
provide much needed jobs.
Natural Gas: A major portion of the known gas
ds in Virginia are located
in the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. In fact about 91 percent of the state’s
annual production occurs in the District, with Buchanan County (56%) and
Dickenson County (23%) leading the way. Natural gas has been produced in the
district since 1930 and production has increased dramatically from the mid-to-late
1990's and 2000's as shown in Table 4.
Most analysts foresee natural gas as a growing source of energy in the U.S.
While not that many jobs have been created as the Cumberland Plateau gas
fields have been developed, local and state governments benefit greatly from gas
severance taxes and revenue from industry-related real estate taxes.
Agricultural Land: According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture (See
Table 5), there are 1,829 farms in the Cumberland Plateau. Cattle and sheep are the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 8
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 9
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
2009 75,351,846 32,898,449 10,796,414 12,128,558 131,175,267
2008 69,644,706 29,885,414 10,044,097 9,401,291 118,975,508
2007 60,232,768 27,352,761 8,692,041 7,536,382 103,813,952
2006 57,199,657 23,551,631 7,601,657 5,986,470 94,339,415
2005 49,989,439 20,192,044 6,422,942 3,886,336 80,490,761
2004 50,637,115 17,475,252 5,901,345 3,153,322 77,167,034
2003 49,487,021 15,734,527 4,876,771 2,485,299 72,583,618
2002 45,389,410 16,480,236 3,500,511 2,563,883 67,934,040
2001 44,479,589 14,877,235 2,075,174 1,846,158 63,278,156
2000 44,384,057 14,859,535 491,297 1,912,571 61,647,460
1999 41,916,758 17,665,116 615,795 1,604,506 61,802,175
1998 36,343,503 12,972,617 433,824 709,713 50,459,657
1997 35,125,597 13,853,818 517,497 732,111 50,229,023
1996 30,673,132 13,374,276 523,662 419,745 44,990,815
1995 27,420,560 14,057,072 573,539 319,626 42,370,797
1994 25,890,226 14,265,050 687,899 410,896 41,254,071
1993 17,537,586 11,539,915 703,643 421,280 30,202,424
1992 6,974,926 10,962,851 524,087 331,189 18,793,053
1991 2,686,239 7,310,579 199,557 357,802 10,554,177
1990 2,887,119 7,944,115 13,459 484,596 11,329,289
Source: Virginia Center for Coal and Energy Research
Table 4
Gas Production by County (Thousands of Cubic Feet)
Table 4
Gas Production by County (Thousands of Cubic Feet)
Year Buchanan _| Dickenson. Russell Tazewell CPPDC
2009] 75,351,846] 32,898,449/ 10,796,414] 12,128,558[ 131,175,267|
2008] 69,644,706] 29,885,414] 10,044,097] 9,401,291[ 118,975,508|
2007| 60,232,768] 27,352,761) 8,692,041) —_—7,536,382[ 103,813,952!
2006] 57,199,657] 23,551,631] —_7,601,657| 5,986,470 94,339,415]
2005] 49,989,439] 20,192,044] 6,422,942| 3, 886,336{ —_80,490,761|
2004] 50,637,115] 17,475,252) 5,901,345] 3,153,322 77,167,034
2003] 49,487,021) 15,734,527| 4,876,771| _—-2,485,299{ 72,583,618
2002] 45,389,410] 16,480,236] 3,500,511] —_2,563,883[ 67,934,040]
2001] 44,479,589] 14,877,235] 2,075,174] _—-1,846,158[ 63,278,156]
2000] 44,384,057] 14,859,535] 491,297] 1,912,571f 61,647,460)
1999] 41,916,758] 17,665,116] 615,795] 1,604,506[ 61,802,175)
1998] 36,343,503) 12,972,617] 433,824] 709,713[ 50,459,657]
1997] 35,125,597] 13,853,818) 517,497 732,111f 50,229,023
1996] 30,673,132) 13,374,276) 523,662 419,745[ 44,990,815]
1995] 27,420,560] 14,057,072| 573,539 319,626, 42,370,797
1994] 25,890,226] 14,265,050) 687,899] 410,896[ 41,254,071)
1993] 17,537,586] 11,539,915) 703,643| 421,280[ — 30,202,424]
1992] 6,974,926] 10,962,851) 524,087| 331,189[ 18,793,053
1991] 2,686,239] 7,310,579) 199,557 357,802[ 10,554,177
1990] 2,887,119] 7,944,115) 13,459} 4384,596[ _ 11,329,289]
Source: Virginia Center for Coal and Energy Research
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 9
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 10
predominant farm activities. While tobacco farming has seen significant declines
over the last 10-15 years, farming is still important to the area. In fact, between 1997
and 2012 the District showed a decrease of 43 farms and an 39.98 percent increase in
the total market value of farm products sold. This is an encouraging sign that many
of the burley tobacco farmers have switched to raising produce or have converted to
raising livestock. The growing number of local Farmers’ Markets in the region is a
development that provides a significant market for the District’s small farmers.
C. Environmental Issues
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District has always strived to maintain a
proper balance between economic development and the environment. The industrial
marketing effort of the district is directed toward industries that will not pose
environmental problems and thus far we have been successful in this effort. Most of
the environmental problems that the district has to confront are caused by existing
industries such as coal mining, agriculture and silviculture. These problems are
being addressed for the most part by state and federal regulations.
Following is a list of sensitive environmental areas in the District that are
2007 2012
%
Change 2007 2012
%
Change 2007 2012
%
Change 2007 2012
%
Change
Total Land in Farms (Acres) 9,331 9,559 2.44% 14,342 15,048 4.92% 151,564 187,620 23.78% 153,677 150,181 2.27%
Number of Farms 107 103 -3.73% 170 147 -13.52% 1,019 995 2.35% 576 584 1.38%
Average Farm Size (Acres) 87 93 6.89% 84 102 21.42% 149 189 26.84% 267 257 3.74%
Total Market Value of Products Sold $363,000 $479,000 31.95% $620,000 $781,000 25.96% $20,707,000 $32,164,000 55.32% $21,490,000 $27,020,000 25.73%
Average Per Farm 3,392 4,961 46.25% 3,645 5,314 45.78% 20,321 32,325 59.07% 37,308 46,268 24.01%
Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Buchanan County Dickenson County Russell County Tazewell County
Table 5
Agricultural Base Data
Base Data
Tables
‘Areal Base Data
Buchanan County Dickenson Couny Fussell County Tazewell County
Base Data ry * ry ry
2o07_| 2012 | change| 2007 | 2012 [change | 2007 _| 2012 | change| 2007 | 2012 _| change
ota Land in Farms crs) 933i [9559 [ 244% [ 24342 | asoea | 490% | asise4 | e720 [23.78%] iszer7 | ssoasi | 227%
Number of Farms sor | 103 |-a7a%| 10 | a7 |-13sox| aoe | 99 | 2ase| 576 sea | 138%
average Farm Sze (Acres) sr | 93 |6se%| a4 | 102 [orem] 149 189 | 2684%| 267 ast | 370%
Total Markt Value of Products Sld $363,000 [547300 | 31.95% | 620,00 |578,000 | 25.96% $20,707,000 | $32,164,000 | 5s 32% | $21 490000 |$27020.000 | 25.73%
[average Per Farm 3302 | ager | 45sx] 3615 | sara [as7es| 20301 | 32305 |saom] ayaa _| 45268 | 2a01%
Source: US. Dept. of Agicdtue
predominant farm acti
s. While tobacco farming has seen significant dec!
es
over the last 10-15 years, farming is still important to the area. In fact, between 1997
and 2012 the District showed a decrease of 43 farms and an 39.98 percent increase in
the total market value of farm products sold. This is an encouraging sign that many
of the burley tobacco farmers have switched to raising produce or have converted to
raising livestock. The groy
ing number of local Farmers’ Markets in the region is a
development that provides a significant market for the District's small farmers.
C. Environmental Issues
‘The Cumberland Plateau Planning District has always strived to maintain a
proper balance between economic development and the environment. The industrial
marketing effort of the district is directed toward industries that will not pose
environmental problems and thus far we have been successful in this effort. Most of
the environmental problems that the district has to confront are caused by existing
industries such as coal mining, agriculture and silviculture. These problems are
being addressed for the most part by state and federal regulations.
Folloy
g is a list of sensitive environmental areas in the District that are
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 10
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 11
being protected from development that would upset the natural balance.
1. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is an area which has unusual natural or
man-made features which are worthy of protection by State or local
governments. These natural or man-made features might consist of:
a). Groupings of historic buildings located within relatively undisturbed
contiguous natural areas.
b). Roads through undisturbed countryside containing scenery and
buildings uniquely historic and representative of the District.
c). Natural wildlife habitats supporting unique fish or wildlife
populations, species whose range in the State is restricted or whose
numbers are so limited as to warrant special consideration.
d). Natural areas possessing unique physical characteristics as:
1. Bluffs having unusual exposed geologic strata, or beautiful
vistas.
2. Inland river banks having wild character, profuse blooming
flora, unusual flora communities, unusual crystalline beauty, or
exceptional water quality.
3. Rivers with churning action, having visual interest, waterfalls
or sinking streams.
4. High altitude lakes or elevated lakes in poquosins.
5. Unaltered mountain coves, significant peaks, natural arches,
caves or tunnels.
being protected from development that would upset the natural balance.
1. Criterion
A sens
ive environmental area is an area w
h has unusual natural or
man-made features which are worthy of protection by State or local
governments. These natural or man-made features might consist of:
a). Groupings of historic buildings located within relatively undisturbed
contiguous natural areas.
b). Roads through undisturbed countryside containing scenery and
buildings uniquely historic and representative of the District.
©). Natural wildlife habitats supporting unique fish or wildlife
populations, species whose range in the State is restricted or whose
numbers are so limited as to warrant special consideration.
d). Natural areas possessing unique physical characteristics as:
1, Bluffs having unusual exposed geologic strata, or beautiful
stas.
2. Inland river banks having wild character, profuse blooming
flora, unusual flora communities, unusual crystalline beauty, or
exceptional water qualit
Rivers with churning action, having visual interest, waterfalls
or sinking streams.
. High altitude lakes or elevated lakes in poquosins.
. - Unaltered mountain coves, significant peaks, natural arches,
caves or tunnels,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 11
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 12
6. Monadnocks, karst outcrops, and other unusual geological
formations.
7. Spectacular gorges.
8. Climax forest communities of mature individuals.
9. Forest communities at range limits such as balsam fir, red
spruce and arbor vitae.
10. Endangered forest species such as native chestnut and elm
e). Areas possessing qualities suitable for future park development such
as:
1. Being accessible from population centers and well-traveled
tourist routes.
2. Having good scenic qualities, yet relatively level terrain to
permit the construction of any necessary facilities.
3. Possessing bodies of water or potential pond and lake sites.
4. Being a relatively large and undeveloped tract.
2. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is a natural area which is crucial to an
ecological system and should be protected from inappropriate development.
Such areas will not readily support intense development or may be
hazardous to the public health and safety. Areas within this category might
include:
a). Flood plain areas with special flood hazards and those which are
located within the one hundred year flood level.
6. Monadnocks, karst outcrops, and other unusual geological
formations.
Spectacular gorges.
. Climax forest communities of mature individuals.
. Forest communities at range limits such as balsam fir, red
spruce and arbor vitae.
10. Endangered forest species such as native chestnut and elm
e). Areas possessing qualities suitable for future park development such
as:
1. Being accessible from population centers and well-traveled
tourist routes.
2. Having good scenic qualities, yet relatively level terrain to
permit the construction of any necessary facilities.
3. Possessing bodies of water or potential pond and lake sites.
4. Being a relatively large and undeveloped tract.
2. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is a natural area which is crucial to an
ecological system and should be protected from inappropriate development.
Such areas will not readily support intense development or may be
hazardous to the public health and safety. Areas within this category might
include:
a). Flood pk
in areas with special flood hazards and those which are
located within the one hundred year flood leve
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 12
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 13
b). Areas of severe topography where it is difficult to locate structures.
Steep slopes with shallow soil profiles making it impractical to install
sub-surface sewage disposal facilities, to find adequate soil for cut and
fill, and to find sufficient water of adequate quality for a domes water
supply. Areas where underlying rock formations make it possible for
rock or earth slides to take place after heavy precipitation.
c). Low wetlands which are regularly inundated at high tide. These
areas are critical to the production of detritus, an important link in
the food chain for nearly all marine life, and serve as spawning,
breeding, or feeding grounds for many marine species.
3. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area includes certain natural, scenic, or
historic areas which are presently endangered, or in obvious danger of
destruction, alteration, or loss because of the activities of man. Activities
which might create a danger to the natural environment include:
a). Existing or potential urbanization whose rate or intensity of growth
exceeds the capacity of an area to support it without itself being
substantially despoiled.
b). A major public or private facility or improvement which would
significantly alter the natural or historic environment.
c). Power generation and transmission facilities or any facility which
might pollute the water or air, or despoil the natural, scenic, or
historic qualities of an area.
b). Areas of severe topography where it is difficult to locate structures.
Steep slopes with shallow soil profiles making it impractical to install
sub-surface sewage disposal facilities, to find adequate soil for cut and
fill, and to find sufficient water of adequate quality for a domes water
supply. Areas where underlying rock formations make it possible for
rock or earth slides to take place after heavy precipitation.
©). _ Low wetlands which are regularly inundated at high tide. These
areas are critical to the production of detritus, an important link in
the food chain for nearly all marine life, and serve as spawning,
breeding, or feeding grounds for many marine species.
3. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area includes certain natural, scenic, or
historic areas which are presently endangered, or in obvious danger of
destruction, alteration, or loss because of the activities of man. Activities
which might create a danger to the natural environment include:
a). _ Existing or potential urbaniz
tion whose rate or intensity of growth
exceeds the capacity of an area to support it without itself being
substanti
despoiled.
b). A major public or private facility or improvement which would
significantly alter the natural or historic environment.
©). Power generation and transmission facilities or any facility which
might pollute the water or air, or despoil the natural, scenic, or
historic qualities of an area.
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Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 14
4. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is an area appropriate for public use through
future acquisition by State or local agencies. Many types of natural areas could
qualify for public acquisition. Uses to which this land might be put include:
a). Parks
b). Historic preserves
c). Game and fish management areas
d). Trails
e). Public forests
f). Scenic areas
g). Highways and parkways
h). Water impoundment sites
5. Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is an area which can be considered to contain
a primary State resource. These could include wildlife, mineral, or agricultural
production. Types of primary resource areas might include:
a). Natural wildlife habitats of high productivity for use by man
b). Primary agricultural production areas
c). Primary forest production areas
d). Mineral resource areas to include ore deposits and major
quarries
Site Description
Russell Fork Area Natural area on the Virginia-Kentucky line with
wild and spectacular scenery. Views include the
4.
Criterion
A sensitive environmental area is an area appropriate for public use through
future acquisi
qualify for public acqu
a).
b).
©).
A sensi
n by State or local agencies. Many types of natural areas could
jon. Uses to which this land might be put include:
Parks
Historic preserves
Game and fish management areas
Trails
Pu
ic forests
Scenic areas
Highways and parkways
Water impoundment sites
Criterion
e environmental area is an area which can be considered to contain
a primary State resource. These could include wildlife, mineral, or agricultural
production. Types of primary resource areas might include:
a), Natural wildlife habitats of high productivity for use by man
b). Primary agricultural production areas
©). Primary forest production areas
d), Mineral resource areas to include ore deposits and major
quarries
Site Description
Russell Fork Area Natural area on the Vi
wild and spectacular scenery. Views include the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 14
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 15
Breaks of the Cumberland. Criteria 1, 2, 3
Clinch River Gorge Area Unique sandstone gorge and scenic area. Clinch
River has excellent canoeing, fishing, and scenic
potential. Important adjacent sites include Big
Falls on Cedar Creek, and Pinnacle Rock
formations. Criteria 1, 2, 3
Cove Creek Area Natural area in relatively untouched condition,
recreational potential. Criteria 1, 2, 3
Elk Garden Small settlement centering on an early 19th
Century mill overlooked by the classical revival
mansion of Governor Stuart. Criteria 1, 3
Burkes Garden Historic and scenic community in rich
agricultural area - relatively isolated. Critical
area includes Garden Mountain, unspoiled
natural and scenic area - unsuitable for intense
development. Criteria
1, 2, 3, 5
Knob Mountain - Paint Undisturbed scenic and natural area.
Lick Mountain - Cove Mountains are wildlife habitats of great
recreational value. Site of historic Indian battle
and pre-historic Indian paintings. Cove area is
rich agricultural and cattle-raising area. Criteria
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Clinch River Gorge Area
Cove Creek Area
Elk Garden
Burkes Garden
Knob Mountain - Paint
Lick Mountain - Cove
Breaks of the Cumberland. Criteria 1, 2, 3
Unique sandstone gorge and scenic area. Clinch
er has excellent canoeing, fishing, and sce
potential. Important adjacent sites include Big
Falls on Cedar Creek, and Pinnacle Rock
formations. Criteria 1, 2,3
Natural area in relatively untouched condition,
recreational potential. Criteria 1, 2,3
Small settlement centering on an early 19th
Century mill overlooked by the classical revival
mansion of Governor Stuart. Criteria 1, 3
Historic and scenic community in rich
agricultural area - relatively isolated. Critical
area includes Garden Mountain, unspoiled
natural and scenic area - unsuitable for intense
development. Cri
1, 2,3,5
Undisturbed scenic and natural area.
Mountains are wildlife habitats of great
recreational value. Site of historic Indian battle
and pre-historic Indian paintings. Cove area
rich agricultural and cattle-raising area. Criteria
1, 2,3,4,5
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 15
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 16
Birch Knob Unspoiled mountain area, wildlife and botanical
habitat. Rugged geologic formation, near
Blowing Knob, of recreational value. Criteria 1,
2,3, 4, 5
D. Population and Labor Force
a. Population Characteristics
Between 1990 and 2011-2015 estimates, the population in the District
decreased 10.12 percent, declining from 123,580 to 111,064. The lowest decline rates
were recorded in Russell and Tazewell Counties (-1.47 and -4.50 percent,
respectively), followed by Dickenson with -12.24 percent and Buchanan with –25.04
percent population decline.
From 2000 to 2011-2015 estimates, the District saw a smaller decline in its
population growth trend. As illustrated in Table 6 and Figure 6, population has
declined reaching 111,064 in 2011-2015 estimates, a -6.1 percent decrease in fifteen
years. Buchanan County's 25.00 percent population decline was still the largest
experienced among the four counties. Projections by the Virginia Employment
Commission (see Table 6a) indicate that the population decline has bottomed-out
in Russell and Tazewell Counties and will increase slightly through 2030.
However, population will continue to decline in Buchanan and Dickenson Counties.
The slight increases in Russell and Tazewell Counties are not sufficient to offset the
losses in the District of the 1990’s and 2000’s period. It will take a much stronger
economic recovery to reverse the economic trends of the past.
Although the size of the District's population has fluctuated over the past two
Birch Knob Unspoiled mountain area, wildlife and botanical
habitat, Rugged geologic formation, near
Blowing Knob, of recreational value. Criteria 1,
2,3, 4,5
D. Population and Labor Force
a. Population Characteristics
Between 1990 and 2011-2015 estimates, the population in the District
decreased 10.12 percent, declining from 123,580 to 111,064. The lowest decline rates
were recorded in Russell and Tazewell Counties (-1.47 and -4.50 percent,
respectively), followed by Dickenson with -12.24 percent and Buchanan with —25.04
percent population decline.
From 2000 to 2011-2015 estimates, the District saw a smaller decline in its
population growth trend. As illustrated in Table 6 and Figure 6, population has
declined reaching 111,064 in 2011-2015 estimates, a -6.1 percent decrease in fifteen
years. Buchanan County's 25.00 percent population decline was still the largest
experienced among the four counties. Projections by the Virginia Employment
Commission (see Table 6a) indicate that the population decline has bottomed-out
in Russell and Tazewell Counties and wi
crease slightly through 2030.
However, population will continue to decline in Buchanan and Dickenson Counties.
The slight increases in Russell and Tazewell Counties are not sufficient to offset the
losses in the District of the 1990°s and 2000’s period. It wi
take a much stronger
economic recovery to reverse the economic trends of the past.
Although the size of the District's population has fluctuated over the past two
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 16
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 17
2010 2000 1990
Locality
Buchanan County 23,486 24,098 26,978 31,333 -1.29% -10.68% -13.90% -23.09%
Grundy Town 891 1,021 1,105 1,305 -12.73% -7.60% -15.33% -21.76%
Dickenson County 15,463 15,903 16,395 17,620 -2.76% -3.00% -6.95% -9.75%
Clintwood Town 1,423 1,414 1,549 1,542 0.63% -8.72% 0.45% -8.30%
Haysi Town 452 498 186 222 -9.23% 167.70% -16.22% 124.32%
Clinchco Town 336 337 424 N/A -0.29% -20.50% N/A N/A
Russell County 28,245 28,897 30,308 28,667 -2.25% -4.66% 5.72% 0.80%
Cleveland Town 198 202 148 214 -1.98% 36.48% -30.84% -5.61%
Lebanon Town 3,388 3,424 3,273 3,386 -1.05% 4.60% -3.34% 1.12%
Honaker Town 1,576 1,449 945 950 8.76% 53.30% -0.53% 52.53%
Tazewell County 43,870 45,078 44,598 45,960 -2.68% 1.07% -2.96% -1.92%
Bluefield Town 5,350 5,444 5,078 5,363 -1.72% 7.20% -5.31% 1.51%
Pocahontas Town 365 389 441 513 -6.17% -11.79% -14.04% -24.17%
Richlands Town 5,630 5,823 4,144 4,456 -3.31% 40.56% -7.00% 30.68%
Tazewell Town 4,522 4,627 4,206 4,176 -2.26% 10.00% 0.72% 10.80%
Cedar Bluff Town 1,148 1,137 1,085 1,290 0.96% 4.79% -15.89% -11.86%
CPPDC 111,064 113,976 118,279 123,580 -2.55% 3.63% -4.29% -7.77%
Virginia 8,256,630 8,001,024 7,078,515 6,187,358 3.19% 13.00% 14.40% 29.31%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 - 2000 - 2010
and U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2011 - 2015
Table 6
2010-2015
% Change
Population Counts and Percentages of Change Census 1990, Census 2000, Census 2010 and ACS 2011 - 2015 Estimates
2000-2010
% Change
1990-2000
% Change
1990-2010
% Change
2011-2015
ACS Estimates
Table 6
Population Counts and Percentages of Change Census 1990, Census 2000, Census 2010 and ACS 2011 - 2015 Estimates
2011-2015 | 2010 | 2000 | 1990 |2010-2015]2000-2010] 1990-2000 | 1990-2010
Locality |ACS Estimates ‘% Change | % Change | % Change |_% Change
Buchanan County 23,486] 24,098] 26,978] _31,333|__-1.29% _-10.68%| _-13.90% _-23.09%
Grundy Town soi] 1021] 1,105] _1,305|_-12.73%| _-7.60%|__-15.33%| 21.7696
Dickenson County 15,463] 15,903] _16,395| 17,620] 2.7656] 3.00%] 6.95% _-9.75%|
Clintwood Town 1423|__1414|__1549|__1,542|__0.63%|__-8.72%| _0.45%|__-8.30%|
Haysi Town 4s2|___as|___ 186] ___222| 9.2366 167.70%4] -16.2256| _124.32%|
Clincheo Town 336{ _337|___42al_—_n/al__-0.29%) _-20.50% Nal nial
Russell County 28,245] 28,897| 30,308] _28,667| _-2.25%| _-4.66%|__ 5.72% 0.80%
Cleveland Town sos{___202| _4s|_2al__-1.98%| _36.48%| _-30.84%6| _-5.6196
Lebanon Town 3388] 3424] 3273| __3,386| _-1.05%| __4.60%|__-3.34%4 1.12%
Honaker Town 1s76| 1449] 945| 950] __8.76%| 53.30%) -0.53%| 52.53%
{Tazewell County 43,870| 45,078] 44,598] 45,960|__-2.68%| 1.07%) _-2.96%|__-1.92%
Bluefield Town 5350] 44a] 5,078) _5,363| -1.72%| _7.20%| _-5.3196| 1.51%
Pocahontas Town 365|___ 389] aan} 513 -6.17%| -11.79%] -14.04%| _-24.17%|
Richlands Town 5630] _5,823| __4,14a|__4,456| -3.3156| 40.56%] -7.00%| _30.68%|
Tazewell Town 4522| 4627] __4,206| _4,176| _-2.26%| 10.00%] 0.72% _ 10.80%
Cedar Bluff Town 1143] 1137] 1,085] _1,290| __0.96%|__4.79%| _-15.89%| _-11.86%
lcppoc 111,064 _113,976|_118,279| 123,580| -2.555 3.63%] 4.2056 —_-7.77%
Virginia 8,256,630| 8,001,024] 7,078,515|6,187,358| 3.19%] 13.00%) 14.40%) _29.31%4|
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 - 2000 - 2010
and U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2011 - 2015
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 17
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 18
Table 6a
Population Projections
Jurisdiction 2010 2020 2030 2040
Buchanan County 24,098 23,383 23,263 23,296
Dickenson County 15,903 15,600 15,375 15,193
Russell County 28,897 29,051 29,296 29,534
Tazewell County 45,078 45,300 45,436 45,535
CPPDC 113,976 113,334 113,370 113,558
Virginia 8,001,024 8,811,512 9,645,281 10,530,229
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Figure 6
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
24,098
15,903
28,897
45,078
23,383
15,600
29,051
45,300
23,263
15,375
29,296
45,436
0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000
Buchanan County
Dickenson County
Russell County
Tazewell County
2040
2030
2020
2010
Table 6a
Population Projections
Jurisdiction 2010 2020 2030 2040
Buchanan County 24,098 23,383 23,263 23,296
Dickenson County 15,903 15,600 15,375 15,193
Russell County 28,897 29,051 29,296 29,534
Tazewell County 45,078 45,300 45,436 45,535,
cPPDC 113,976 113,334 113,370 113,558
Virginia 8,001,024 8,811,512 9,645,281 10,530,229
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Figure 6
Tazewell County
Russell County
= 2040
2030
= 2020
Dickenson County 2010
Buchanan County
0 10,000 20,000 += 30,000» 40,000 50,000
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 18
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 19
decades, the racial composition of that population has remained stable. According to
the 2011 - 2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey Estimate, 96.2 percent of
the population in the District was white, with data for Tazewell County showing the
only significant (but still quite low) number of minorities with a black population of
3.0 percent. Similarly, in 2010, 96.2 percent of the population in the four-county
area reported white as their race. The black population in Tazewell County (3.0
percent) was the largest minority representation among the four counties. Table 7
and Figures 7a and 7b show the racial composition of each county and of the State
of Virginia as reported in the 2011 - 2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey
Estimate. In comparison to the State of Virginia as a whole, the Cumberland
Plateau Area has a very small minority population.
Age as shown in Table 8 and Figure 8 is another characteristic that differs
somewhat from the State's statistic. The populations of all four counties appear to
be slightly older on average than that of the State, with median ages of 45.5, 43.4,
43.8, and 43.1 for the four counties, in comparison to 37.6 for the State in the 2011-
2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey Estimate.
b. Labor Force
As shown in Tables 9 through figure 9e, from 2000 to 2015 the labor force in all
counties within the Planning District decreased. Russell County has experienced a 5.31
percent decrease in its labor force, which has decreased from 11,789 in 2000 to 11,162 in
2011-2015 estimates, while total employment in Russell County has decreased 6.65 percent.
Russell's decrease in labor force was less than that recorded in Tazewell County, where the
number of people in the labor force decreased by 17.60 percent.
decades, the racial composition of that population has remained stable. According to
the 2011 - 2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey Estimate, 96.2 percent of
the population in the District was white, with data for Tazewell County showing the
only significant (but still quite low) number of minorities with a black population of
3.0 percent, Similarly, in 2010, 96.2 percent of the population in the four-county
area reported white as their race. The black population in Tazewell County (3.0
percent) was the largest minority representation among the four counties. Table 7
and
ures 7a and 7b show the racial composition of each county and of the State
of Virginia as reported in the 2011 - 2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey
Estimate. In comparison to the State of Virginia as a whole, the Cumberland
Plateau Area has a very small minority population.
Age as shown in Table 8 and Figure 8 is another characteristic that differs
somewhat from the State's statistic. The populations of all four counties appear to
be slightly older on average than that of the State, with median ages of 45.5, 43.4,
43.8, and 43.1 for the four counties, in comparison to 37.6 for the State in the 2011-
2015 U.S. Census American Community Survey Estimate.
b. Labor Force
As shown in Tables 9 through figure 9e, from 2000 to 2015 the labor force in all
counties within the Planning District decreased. Russell County has experienced a 5.31
percent decrease in its labor force, which has decreased from 11,789 in 2000 to 11,162 in
2011-2015 estimates, while total employment in Russell County has decreased 6.65 percent.
Russell's decrease in labor force was less than that recorded in Tazewell County, where the
number of people in the labor force decreased by 17.60 percent.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 19
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 20
Jurisdiction Population White Percent
Black or
African
American
Percent Asian Percent
Hispanic
Latino
Percent
Buchanan County 24,098 23,271 96.6% 616 2.6% 53 0.2% 95 0.4%
Dickenson County 15,903 15,712 98.8% 51 0.3% 18 0.1% 86 0.5%
Russell County 28,897 28,270 97.8% 233 0.8% 53 0.2% 275 1.0%
Tazewell County 45,078 42,868 95.1% 1,333 3.0% 289 0.6% 296 0.7%
CPPDC 113,976 109,689 96.2% 2,222 2.0% 409 0.4% 752 0.7%
Virginia 8,001,024 5,486,852 68.6% 1,551,399 19.4% 439,890 5.5% 631,825 7.9%
Source : U.S. Census Bureau 2010
Jurisdiction Population White Percent
Black or
African
American
Percent Asian Percent
Hispanic
Latino
Percent
Buchanan County 23,486 22,408 95.4% 623 2.7% 114 0.5% 74 0.3%
Dickenson County 15,463 15,157 98.0% 139 0.9% 11 0.1% 118 0.8%
Russell County 28,245 27,321 96.7% 293 1.0% 41 0.1% 320 1.1%
Tazewell County 43,870 43,503 99.2% 1,279 2.9% 173 0.4% 367 0.8%
CPPDC 111,064 108,389 97.6% 2,334 2.1% 339 0.3% 879 0.8%
Virginia 8,256,630 5,237,848 63.4% 1,560,316 18.9% 489,610 5.9% 709,156 8.6%
Source : U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2011-2015
Selected Racial Data By Population and Percentage
Selected Racial Data Estimates By Population and Percentage
Table 7
Table 7
Table 7
Selected Racial Data By Population and Percentage
Backor :
surzdtion | ropution| white | eercent | atican [percent] asian |percent| MP2 | porent
American
Buchanan Coun f aense | waa | seam | 616 | aon} ss | ome | os | ome
Dickenson County | 15,903 15,712 98.8% Ss. 0.3% 18 0.1% 86 0.5%
Russell County 28,897 28,270 97.8% 233 0.8% 53 0.2% 275 1.0%
Tazewell County 45,078 42,868 95.1% 1,333 3.0% | 289 | 0.6% 296 0.7%
ceroc | 13976 | 109589 | 962% | 22% | 20% | a0 | oan | 752 | o7%
vigiis | 6001026 |sa5ss2| osx |1551399] 19.0% |assaso] sox | o2u825| 79%
Source: US. Census Bureau 2010
Table
Selected Racial Data Estimates By Population and Percentage
Black or
Mispanie
Jurisdiction Population} White Percent | African |Percent| Asian | Percent Latino Percent
Aerian
Buchanan County | 23,486 22,408 95.4% 623 2.7% | 114 | 0.5% 74 0.3%
Dickenson County | 15,463 15,157 98.0% 139 0.9% i 0.1% 118 0.8%
russelCounty | 26245 | 27301 | 967% | 22 | a0% | | osm | 320 | 14%
faxewencounty | 49870 | 49503 | 992% | sar | 29% | am | oan | 67 | 02%
croc | saxoss | 10909 f 976% | 23% [2a | 299 foax | ar | oa
vigina | 925560 s2a7ase| o2.a%_|1ss0316| 129% [sese1o] sox | onas6| sox
Source : U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2011-2015
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 20
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 21
Source : U.S. Census Bureau 2010
Source : U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey Estimates 2011-2015
Figure 7b
CPPDC BY RACE, 2011 - 2015
CPPDC BY RACE, 2010
Figure 7a
96.2%
3.8%
White
Non-White
97.6%
2.4%
White
Non-White
Figure 7a
CPPDC BY RACE, 2010
white
mt Non-white
Source : U.S. Census Bureau 2010
Figure 7b
CPPDC BY RACE, 2011 - 2015
white
1 Non-White
Source : U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey Estimates 2011-2015
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 21
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 22
1980 1990 2000 2010
2011-2015
Estimates
Buchanan 25.9 32.2 38.8 43.8 45.5
Dickenson 28 34 39.7 43 43.4
Russell 29.3 34.6 38.7 43 43.8
Tazewell 29.6 35.4 40.7 43.2 43.1
CPPDC 28.2 34.1 39.5 43.2 44
Virginia 29.8 32.6 35.7 37.5 37.6
Source: US Census Bureau & 2011 - 2015 American Community Survey Estimates
Source: US Census Bureau & 2011 - 2015 American Community Survey Estimates
Median Age Years
Table 8
Figure 8
Median Age Years
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
1980
1990
2000
2010
2011-2015 Estimates
Table 8
Median Age Years
2011-2015
1980 1990 2000 2010 Estimates
Buchanan 25.9 32.2 38.8 43.8 45.5
Dickenson 28 34 39.7 43 43.4
Russell 29.3 34.6 38.7 43 43.8
Tazewell 29.6 35.4 40.7 43.2 43.1
ICPPDC 28.2 34.1 39.5 43.2 44
Virginia 29.8 32.6 35.7 37.5 37.6
Source: US Census Bureau & 2011 - 2015 American Community Survey Estimates
Figure 8
Median Age Years
50
45
40
35 +
30
1980
25 1990
20 = 2000
45 2010
2011-2015 Estimates
10
5
0
is
Ee §
Source: US Census Bureau & 2011 - 2015 American Community Survey Estimates.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 22
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 23
Year
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
2000 8,680 8,175 505 5.8% 5,330 5,023 307 5.8%
2001 8,845 8,313 632 6.0% 5,467 5,085 382 7.0%
2002 9,025 8,387 638 7.1% 5,676 5,233 443 7.8%
2003 8,952 8,329 623 7.0% 5,869 5,374 495 8.4%
2004 8,448 7,973 475 5.6% 5,645 5,299 346 6.1%
2005 8,451 8,002 449 5.3% 5,752 5,387 365 6.3%
2006 8,426 8,011 415 4.9% 5,665 5,378 287 5.1%
2007 8,683 8,260 423 4.9% 5,804 5,501 303 5.2%
2008 8,917 8,468 449 5.0% 6,052 5,704 348 5.8%
2009 9,377 8,564 813 8.7% 6,541 5,965 576 8.8%
2010 9,435 8,618 817 8.7% 6,522 5,955 567 8.7%
2011 9,527 8,829 698 7.3% 6,689 6,150 539 8.1%
2012 9,575 8,827 748 7.8% 6,111 5,549 562 9.2%
2013 9,122 8,232 890 9.8% 5,766 5,192 574 10.0%
2014 7,874 7,058 816 10.4% 5,239 4,720 519 9.9%
2015 7,408 6,610 798 10.8% 4,986 4,484 502 10.1%
2016 6,826 6,090 736 10.8% 4,535 4,084 451 9.9%
Year
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
2000 11,789 11,183 606 5.1% 18,877 17,918 959 5.1%
2001 11,853 11,096 757 6.4% 19,304 18,356 948 4.9%
2002 12,198 11,428 770 6.3% 20,196 19,034 1162 5.8%
2003 12,440 11,672 768 6.2% 20,162 19,076 1086 5.4%
2004 11,703 11,033 670 5.7% 19,581 18,673 908 4.6%
2005 12,067 11,385 682 5.7% 19,610 18,728 882 4.5%
2006 11,821 11,118 703 5.9% 20,007 19,220 787 3.9%
2007 11,806 11,199 607 5.1% 20,359 19,443 916 4.5%
2008 11,833 11,149 684 5.8% 20,675 19,761 914 4.4%
2009 12,592 11,247 1,345 10.7% 21,808 20,137 1,671 7.7%
2010 12,249 11,012 1,237 10.1% 21,458 19,970 1,488 6.9%
2011 12,080 10,956 1,124 9.3% 21,441 20,042 1,399 6.5%
2012 11,513 10,495 1,018 8.8% 20,605 19,158 1,447 7.0%
2013 11,264 10,280 984 8.7% 20,068 18,656 1,412 7.0%
2014 11,307 10,406 901 8.0% 17,303 15,913 1,390 8.0%
2015 11,609 10,856 753 6.5% 16,620 15,376 1,244 7.6%
2016 11,162 10,439 723 6.5% 15,969 14,764 1,205 7.5%
Year
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
Labor
Force
Employed Unemployed
Unemployed
Rate
2000 44,676 42,299 2377 5.3% 3,584,037 3,502,524 81,513 2.3%
2001 45,469 42,850 2619 5.8% 3,655,371 3,537,719 117,652 3.2%
2002 47,095 44,082 3013 6.4% 3,744,636 3,588,079 156,557 4.2%
2003 47,423 44,451 2972 6.3% 3,802,819 3,647,095 155,724 4.1%
2004 45,377 42,978 2399 5.3% 3,857,590 3,715,272 142,678 3.7%
2005 45,840 43,461 2379 5.2% 3,921,799 3,783,813 137,986 3.5%
2006 45,919 43,727 2192 4.8% 3,983,717 3,862,508 121,209 3.0%
2007 46,652 44,403 2249 4.8% 4,017,176 3,894,111 123,065 3.1%
2008 47,477 45,082 2395 5.0% 4,138,205 3,974,624 163,581 4.0%
2009 50,318 45,913 4,405 8.8% 4,129,132 3,842,447 286,685 6.9%
2010 49,619 45,496 4,123 8.3% 4,134,422 3,840,619 293,803 7.1%
2011 49,737 45,977 3,760 7.6% 4,198,399 3,928,267 270,132 6.4%
2012 47,804 44,029 3,775 7.9% 4,209,532 3,962,496 247,036 5.9%
2013 46,220 42,360 3,860 8.4% 4,240,111 4,004,981 235,130 5.5%
2014 41,723 38,097 3,626 8.7% 4,261,175 4,041,105 220,070 5.2%
2015 40,623 37,326 3,297 8.1% 4,240,470 4,051,908 188,562 4.4%
2016 38,492 35,377 3,115 8.1% 4,240,403 4,070,260 170,143 4.0%
Source : Virginia Employment Commission : Local Area Unemployment Statistics
CPPDC Virginia
Table 9
Labor Force
Buchanan County Dickenson County
Russell County Tazewell County
Tables
Labor Force
Buchanan County Dickenson County
Tabor (Unemployed) Labor Unemploved|
Year | {280! lemployed] Unemployed |U*™PEYEE] 18PEF | employed] Unemployed | “NO
a 5% | 5330 | 5023 | 307 5.8%
2oor | seas | gsis | 632 60% | sias7 | soas | 382 7.0%
2002 | 9025 | 3367 | 38 71% | 5676 | 5233 3 73%
2003 | 8.952 | e329 | 623 70% | 569 | sa7a | 495 84%
2o0a | saas | 7,973 | 475 sex | sas | 5209 | 340 6.1%
200s | 8451 | 3002 | aaa sax | 5.752 | sas7 | 365 6.3%
200s | sazs | son | ais 40% | se6s | 537s | 287 5.1%
2007 | g683 | 3260 | 23 ao% | saoa | 5501 | 303 5.2%
2008 | 3917 | sass | a9 so% | 6052 | 570 | 346 5.5%
2009 | 9377 | sca | aia am | 65a | 596s | 576 8.9%
zoro | 9435 | seis | ai7 37% | 6522 | 5955 | 567 87%
zor | 9527 | 3a20 | 60s 73% | 6689 | 61so | 539 31%
zo. | 9575 | sear | 748 vax | 6111 | ssao | 562 9.2%
zoe | 77 | 7058 | sie 104% | 5239 | 4720 | sao 9.9%
201s | 7408 | 6610 | 798 108% | 4986 | aaa | soz 10.1%
zois | 6826 | 6090 | 736 xox | 4535 | aos | 451 9.0%
Russell County, Tazewell County
Tabor [Unemployed] Labor [Unemploved|
year | 82" employed] unemployed [UE™POYES] LAPEr |employed] Unemployed | UMETPO
2000 [aires | azaes [608 s1% | 18877 | wars | 950 5.1%
2002 | 12,198 | i128 | 770 6.3% | 20,196 | 19034 | 1162 5.8%
2003 | 12,440 | ane72 | 768 62% | 20,62 | 19076 | 1086 5.4%
2o0a | 11,703 | 1033 | 670 5.7% | 19581 | 1673 | 908 4.6%
2008 | 12067 | ansas | 682 5.7% | 19610 | 18728 | a2 45%
2007 | 11806 | 11,199 | 607 sax | 20359 | 19443 | 916 45%
2008 | 11933 | aaaaa | 8a sax | 20675 | 19,761 | 914 4a9%
2009 | 12sez | in247 | 1.345 10.7% | 21808 | 20137 | 1672 7.7%
2o10 | 12249 | ioi2 | 4237 101% | 21458 | 19970 | 1488 6.9%
2012 | 11513 | 10495 | 1018 s.e% | 20605 | rise | 1447 7.0%
2013 | 11264 | 10,280 | 984 8.7% | 20068 | 18.656 | 1812 7.0%
2ore | 11307 | i006 | 901 ox | 17,303 | 15913 | 1.390 3.0%
2015 | 11609 | ioas6 | 753, 65% | 16620 | 15376 | 1200 7.6%
2o1s_| 11362 | r0430 | 723 65% | 15969 | 14764 | 1205 759%
cPpDe Virgina
year | 2P°° employed] Unemployed |UnemPleves] 12°F Jempioyed| Unemployed | "NemPloves
2000 | aa76 | az209 | 2377 5.3% |3584,037)3,502.524) 81513 2.39%
2001 | 45,69 | 42,880 | 2619 sax |3,685,371)3537,719| 117,652 | 3.2%
2002 | 47,035 | 44082 | 3013, 6.4% — |3,744,636) 3,583,079] 156.557 | 4.2%
2003 | 47.423 | aaasi | 2972 6.3% |3,802,819) 3,647,005] 155,720 | 4.1%
2o0a | 45,377 | 42.078 | 2309 s.a% |3857,590)3,715,272| 12678 | 3.7%
2005 | assa0 | 43,461 | 2379 5.2% |3921799)3,783,813| 137,986 | 3.5%
2006 | as919 | 43,727 | 2192 4.9% |3,983,717]3,62,508| 121209 | 3.0%
2007 | 45,652 | 24403 | 2249 4ax% |4017,176/3.898,111| 123065 | 3.1%
2008 | 47,477 | 4502 | 2305 5.0% |4,138,205)3,974,624] 163,581 | 4.0%
2009 | S038 4405 88% |420,152)3,842,047| 286.685 | 6.9%
2010 | a9619 | a5,a96 | 4.123, 83% |4134.22/3840.619| 293,803 | 7.1%
2011 | 49,737 | 5.977 | 3.760 7.6% |4198,399)3928,267| 270132 | 6.0%
2012 | 47,808 | 44029 | 3,775 7.9% — |4,209,532) 3,962,496 247.036 | 5.9%
2013 | 46220 | 42.360 | 3.860 aa% —|4.240,111/4008,981| 235,130 | 5.5%
2o1a | a1723 | 38097 | 3,626 3.7% |4261,175/a0a1,105| 220070 | 5.2%
2015 | 20623 | 37,326 | 3,297 8.1% — |4.240,470|4,051,908| 40%
zoe | 38.092 | 35.377 | 3.115 2.1% |2240403|4070260| 170143 | _ 4.0%
‘Source : Virginia Employment Commission “Local Area Unemployment statisties
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 23
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 24
Source: Virginia Employment commission
Figure 9a - Labor Force
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
Buchanan County Dickenson County Russell County Tazewell County
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Source : Virginia Employment Commission : Local Area Unemployment Statistics
Figure 9b Employed
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
Buchanan County Dickenson County Russell County Tazewell County
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Figure 9a - Labor Force
25,000
1=2000
2001
2002
=2003
2008
= 2005,
15,000
12006
2007
2008
12009
2010
10,000
2011
2012
5,000 2013,
2016
2015
2016
fuchanan County Dickenson County russell County ‘Tazewell county
‘Source: Virginia Employment commission
Figure 9b Employed
25,000
132000
2001
52002
20,000
192003
2004
122005
122006
52007
15,000
2008
122003
2010
2011
2012
5,000 2013
2014
2015
2016
Buchanan County Dickenson County Russell County Tazewell County
Source : Virginia Employment Commission : Local Area Unemployment Statistics
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 24
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 25
Percentage in Labor Force Figure 9C
Source: 2011-2015 United States Census Bureau, American Community Survey
Dickenson County, VirginiaBuchanan County, Virginia
Russell County, Virginia Tazewell County, Virginia
49.80%
72.40%
73.30%
68.40%
59.90%
52.80%
41.70%
28.50% 6.40% 2.20% 16 to 19 years
20 to 24 years
25 to 29 years
30 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 54 years
55 to 59 years
60 to 64 years
65 to 74 years
75 years and over
36.40%
60.40%
47.70%
64.10%
67.70%
45.40%
41.10%
25.50%
10.80% 3.00%
16 to 19 years
20 to 24 years
25 to 29 years
30 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 54 years
55 to 59 years
60 to 64 years
65 to 74 years
75 years and over
32.40%
66.50%
74.00%
73.70%
66.70%
59.50%
47.70%
30.10%
17.80% 3.30%
16 to 19 years
20 to 24 years
25 to 29 years
30 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 54 years
55 to 59 years
60 to 64 years
65 to 74 years
75 years and over
45.60%
67.10%
72.10%
71.00%68.80%
65.30%
50.80%
45.90%
13.10% 7.10%
16 to 19 years
20 to 24 years
25 to 29 years
30 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 54 years
55 to 59 years
60 to 64 years
65 to 74 years
75 years and over
Percentage in Labor Force Figure 9C
Buchanan County, Virginia
Dickenson County Vigna
a5 sox 180% 3.00%
Russell County, Viginia
1780%330% 32.40%
161019 years
sm20t024 years
125020 years
m30t0324 yee
3504 years
tma5tosd yeas
1m55t059 yeas
s=60t06A yeas
1965074 yeas
1575 yearsand over
misto19 ear
1201024 year
1251029 ear
15301034 yrs
1351044 years
1245 1058 yors
12551059 years
‘5601064 years
2651074 years
a7 years andover
640%,
20%
16:0 18 years
20%024yers
1125028 years
130034 years
350 yars
m45tosyeors
1155to59 years
175 yensandover
1308.
TezewellCounty, Viginia
misto19 year
1m20t024 yeas
15251029 year
1m30t034 yeas
135 t044 yrs
1245 1054 yeors
12551059 years
m60%064 years
1565 t078yoors
1575 years andover
“Source: 2017-2015 United States Consus Bureau, American Community Survey
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 25
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 26
Total In labor force Employed Unemployment
rate
Total In labor
force
Employed Unemployment
rate
Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate
Population 16 years and over 19,849 40.10% 35.90% 10.60% 12,623 43.60% 39.70% 8.40%
AGE
16 to 19 years 1,024 36.40% 26.60% 27.10% 622 49.80% 31.20% 37.40%
20 to 24 years 1,288 60.40% 50.50% 16.30% 885 72.40% 59.90% 17.30%
25 to 29 years 1,438 47.70% 35.80% 24.90% 828 73.30% 59.80% 18.50%
30 to 34 years 1,347 64.10% 58.90% 8.00% 979 68.40% 63.40% 4.00%
35 to 44 years 2,886 67.70% 60.70% 10.30% 1,939 59.90% 56.30% 6.00%
45 to 54 years 3,721 45.40% 42.90% 5.70% 2,218 52.80% 51.70% 2.00%
55 to 59 years 2,082 41.10% 37.40% 9.00% 1,101 41.70% 41.50% 0.40%
60 to 64 years 1,648 25.50% 25.50% 0.00% 1,222 28.50% 28.50% 0.00%
65 to 74 years 2,708 10.80% 10.80% 0.00% 1,725 6.40% 6.40% 0.00%
75 years and over 1,707 3.00% 3.00% 0.00% 1,104 2.20% 2.20% 0.00%
Population 20 to 64 years 14,410 9,172
SEX
Male 7,492 53.20% 47.00% 11.70% 4,786 57.70% 53.40% 6.60%
Female 6,918 47.10% 43.10% 8.50% 4,386 52.40% 48.60% 7.10%
Total In labor force Employed Unemployment
rate Total In labor
force Employed Unemployment
rate
Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate
Population 16 years and over 23,372 47.50% 43.70% 8.00% 36,248 50.30% 46.20% 8.00%
AGE
16 to 19 years 1,250 32.40% 22.70% 29.90% 2103 45.60% 36.90% 18.90%
20 to 24 years 1,670 66.50% 61.70% 7.30% 2,526 67.10% 51.50% 23.20%
25 to 29 years 1,513 74.00% 60.50% 17.60% 2,391 72.10% 60.40% 16.00%
30 to 34 years 1,669 73.70% 70.60% 4.20% 2,779 71.00% 66.30% 6.30%
35 to 44 years 3,559 66.70% 59.50% 10.80% 5,436 68.80% 64.50% 6.20%
45 to 54 years 4,241 59.50% 55.90% 6.00% 6,084 65.30% 63.10% 3.30%
55 to 59 years 2,371 47.70% 46.10% 3.20% 3,700 50.80% 49.90% 1.90%
60 to 64 years 2,043 30.10% 30.10% 0.00% 3,142 45.90% 44.00% 4.10%
65 to 74 years 3,011 17.80% 17.80% 0.00% 4,576 13.10% 12.40% 5.00%
75 years and over 2,045 3.30% 3.30% 0.00% 3,511 7.10% 7.10% 0.00%
Population 20 to 64 years 17,066 59.20% 54.60% 7.60% 26,058 63.00% 58.20% 7.60%
SEX
Male 8,534 66.30% 61.00% 7.80% 13,238 68.40% 62.90% 8.00%
Female 8,532 52.10% 48.20% 7.40% 12,820 57.40% 53.30% 7.20%
Source: 2011-2015 United States Census Bureau, American Community Survey
Percentage in Labor Force Figure 9d
Subject
Russell County, Virginia Tazewell County, Virginia
Subject
Buchanan County, Virginia
2011-2015 American Community 5 Year Survey 2011-2015 American Community 5 Year Survey
2011-2015 American Community 5 Year Survey 2011-2015 American Community 5 Year Survey
Dickenson County, Virginia
Percentage in Labor Force Figure Sd
2011-2015 American Community 5 Year Survey
2011-2015 American Community 5 Vear Surv
Guchanan Coun, gin Dekenson Coun, Vega
subpet Totat niavortoree Employes] USPBEYFER] [Tory] HHT employe) UERPV HEN
sumate| sumate | estate| estimate | |satmate| eatmate | estimate | estate
Population t6yearandover| soso | aaron | assox | rosox | | rsa | caaon | anvon | adon
ra
‘toy sz | sean | zecon | arson | | oe | aoson | araox | sraon
Bto2tyens 2 | soave | Sason | team | | aes | reson | Soave | tram
Btozyens vase | a770e | sso | acanm | | a2 | ra30% | seae | tose
20t0 ayers tae | aso | secon | 00% ore | soarm | sso | 40%
35toatyoars 2008 | er70% | eo7o% | toa | | s900 | soaox | sea0n | 600%
‘iostyeas are | ssaow | evo | som | | aare | Semon | Ste | Sane
55050 year zom2 | arson | araon | soon | | sor | arrox | arson | ovon
foto ttyens see | assne | 25son | oom | | razz | anson | zasox | cone
to Myon are | ‘oars | soe | om | | 172s | aon | saw | cove
Te yonn andor tr | soo | soo% | oom | | soe | 220% | 220n | coon
Popueton20 0 64year | 40 are
Sex
Hate rasa | soave | sr0o% | 1s70% | | 470s | srz0% | soaoe | coon
Fema sore | arson | aeion | sson | | 4300 | soaon | asson | rom
2-015 eran Community SearSuney | [201-7015 Ameren Communi 5 Yer Suey
Russel County, Vga Tazewol County Vigna
sub Tota! niabortore] Employed] U>OMBEYFER] Toiy | HBO" [employ RPT HON!
csumate| esumate | estate| estimate | |estmate| estate | estmate | estimate
Population t6yearandover| zaare | arson | aa7ox | soon | | avaee | soamn | aezon | soon
7
‘Stover 120 | seam | zero | 20a0% | | 200 | ascon | seaox | ss00%
2010 26yeus 1s | sesow | erro | ‘7am | | asa | rion | Stax | zoam
Btozyens 1s | 7400 | soso | izsim | | 2ae1 | r210% | soaox | toons
20t0 ayers sso | ro70% | mason | 2% | | 2770 | room | soave | soos
25toatyous asso | serox | soson | oar | | 542s | asson | sasox | sa0x
48t0S4year tam | sason | sssox | coo | | coos | sax | eeron | 220m
55050 year 2am | arzon | asso | azn | | 2700 | sosox | soon | 100%
foto etyens zon | anion | aoron | cone | | ava | asa | soon | 0m
to Myon aor | rrave | seo | oom | | asr | ta10% | t2aox | Soe
eyenr and ovr 20 | so | sax | oom | | ss | 10 | 710% | ooo
Populaton20tw4years | vz008 | seaon | sacon | ro0n | | asase | saoon | seaon | 70m
Sex
ae asx | ssa0% | oraox | roo | | 12208 | soso | szs0n | 200m
Fema asso | szion_| aazon | raon | | 12020 | sraon | ssson | 120%
‘Source: 2011-2018 United Statos Consus Bureau, American Community Survey
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 26
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 27
The labor forces in Buchanan and Dickenson Counties both decreased between 2000
and 2011-2015 estimates. Over the fifteen year period, Buchanan County
experienced a -21.35 percent decrease in its labor force and an 25.50 percent
decrease in employment. In Dickenson County, the labor force has decreased from
5,330 in 2000 to 4,535 in 2011-2015 estimates, a 14.91 percent decrease, and a 18.69
percent decrease was seen in employment in the county. The District's labor force
participation rate of 45.37 percent is considerably lower than Virginia's 63.6
percent, and the participation of women in the labor force is also much lower in the
District (52.25 percent) than in the State (66.0 percent). The United States labor
force participation rates are 62.7 percent for the total labor force and 59.4 percent
1990 2000 2011 - 2015 Estimate 1990 2000 2011 - 2015 Estimate
Persons 16+ 23,849 22,008 19,849 Persons 16+ 35,946 36,235 36,248
In labor force 11,022 8,754 7,939 In labor force 18,446 19,346 16,529
% in labor force 46.20% 39.80% 40.00% % in labor force 51.30% 53.40% 45.60%
Males 16+ 11,595 11,127 10,032 Males 16+ 16,977 16,917 17,989
Males in labor force 7,019 4,756 4,324 Males in labor force 10,827 10,436 10,025
% in labor force 60.50% 42.74% 43.10% % in labor force 63.80% 61.69% 55.73%
Females 16+ 12,254 10,881 9,817 Females 16+ 18,969 19,318 18,259
Females in labor force 4,003 3,998 3,615 Females in labor force 7,619 8,910 6,504
% in labor force 32.70% 36.70% 82.00% % in labor force 40.20% 46.10% 35.62%
Percent in Labor Force
1990 2000 2011 - 2015 Estimate Figure 9e
Persons 16+ 13,462 13,259 12,623
In labor force 5,916 5,535 5,503
% in labor force 43.90% 41.70% 43.60%
Males 16+ 6,485 6,425 6,384
Males in labor force 3,666 3,149 3,016
% in labor force 56.50% 49.01% 47.24%
Females 16+ 6,977 6,834 6,239
Females in labor force 2,250 2,386 2,487
% in labor force 32.20% 34.90% 39.86%
1990 2000 2011 - 2015 Estimate
Persons 16+ 22,508 24,782 23,372
In labor force 11,548 11,695 11,101
% in labor force 51.30% 47.20% 47.50%
Males 16+ 10,894 12,540 11,359
Males in labor force 6,988 6,394 5,786 Source: US Census Bureau 1990 and 2000
% in labor force 64.10% 51.00% 50.94% Source: US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2011-2015
Females 16+ 11,614 12,242 12,013
Females in labor force 4,560 5,301 5,315
% in labor force 39.30% 43.30% 44.24%
Russell County
Table 9e
Buchanan County
Labor Force Status
Tazewell County
Dickenson County
46.20%
43.90%
51.30%
51.30%39.80%
41.70%
47.20%
53.40%40.00%
43.60%
47.50%
45.60%
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell
1990
2000
2011-2015
Labor Force Status
Table 9e
Buchanan County Tazewell County
1990_[ 2000 [20112015 Estima 1360_[ 2000 [201-2075 esimate|
Persone 36+ amo | 22008 19805] {Persons 16+ 3506 | 36235 35,28)
Intabor force 11022 | 3754 7338| _inlaborforce agate | 152346 16523]
Winlaborforee | 46.20% | 39.80% 40.005 Sinlaborforee | 51.30% | 53.40% 45.60%
IMates 16+ ies | 13,27 10032] [ales 16+ 16977 | 16917 17389|
IMatesiniaborforce | 7019 | 4736 4324| —|Malesiniabor force | 10827 | :0,36, 10025|
Winlaborforce | 60.s0%6 | 42.74% 43.10% ‘Sinlaborforce | 63.80% | 61.69% 55.735
Females 16+ 12254 | 10881 9817| _ |remales 16+ 19969 | 19,18 18,255]
Iematesiniaborforce | 4003 | 3,998 3615| _|remalesiniaborforce | 719 | 8910 6504]
inlaborforce | 32.70% | 36.70% 22.005 Séinlaborforce | 40.20% | 46.10% 35.624
Dickenson County Percent in Labor Force
1990 | 2000 [2041-2015 Estima Figure Se
Persone 26+ w2A62 | 13259 1283)
Iniabor force sais | 5535 5503] | 60.003 $$$
inlaborforce | 43.80% | 41.70% 43.60%
Mates 16+ ass | 6425 6284] | sooo
IMatesintaborforce | 3665 | 3209 3p16|
Winlaborforce | 56.50% | 49.01% 27296) | sooow
Females 16+ 6977 | 6834 6,235|
Irematesiniaborforce | 2280 | 2386 2a81| 3990
inlaborforce | 32.20% | 34.905 39.20%] | 2000% 12000
2011-2015,
Aussell County 20.0%
1990] __2000[3043 - 2015 Estat
Persone 26+ 23508 | 24,782 23372] | 10.00%
Iniabor force risea | 1,695 anol]
%inlaborforee | 51.30% | 47.20% 47.50% 00x
Mates 16+ 1os04 | 12510 11,355] fuchanan_ Dickenson Russell Tazewell,
IMatesiniaborforce | 983 | 6304 5,786| Sour Cosi reas ane 200
Winlaborforce | 64.10% | 52.00% 50.59%] sauce: US Census Bureau Ameria Community Sevey 201205,
Femates 16+ nieia | 12242 nox
Jematesiniabortorce | 4360 | 5301 5.315|
Winlaborforce | 39.30% | 43.30% 44.205
The labor forces in Buchanan and Dickenson Counties both decreased between 2000
and 2011-2015 estimates. Over the fifteen year period, Buchanan County
experienced a -21.35 percent decrease in its labor force and an 25.50 percent
decrease in employment. In Dickenson County, the labor force has decreased from
5,330 in 2000 to 4,535 in 2011-2015 estimates, a 14.91 percent decrease, and a 18.69
percent decrease was seen in employment in the county. The District's labor force
participation rate of 45.37 percent is considerably lower than Virginia's 63.6
percent, and the participation of women in the labor force is also much lower in the
District (52.25 percent) than in the State (66.0 percent). The United States labor
force participation rates are 62.7 percent for the total labor force and 59.4 percent
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 27
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 28
for females. The low labor force participation rates in the District indicate a
disproportionately large number of people in the working age population who are
neither employed nor actively seeking employment.
It is believed that the main reason for the exceptionally low labor force
participation rates in the District as compared with the State as a whole is a large
number of discouraged workers. If the gap between labor force participation
between the District and the State as a whole is assumed to be related to the
discouragement phenomenon, 19,153 additional members of the working age
population can be counted as potential labor force participants.
c. Unemployment
Table 10 and Figure 10 also present annual unemployment data for the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District, from 2000 through 2016. In 2016,
unemployment is the same in Buchanan, slightly lower in Dickenson, the same in
Russell County and the same in Tazewell County compared to 2015. A comparison
of the unemployment rate increases from 2007 to 2015 shows a huge increase in
unemployment in all four counties: from 4.9 percent unemployment in 2007 to 10.8
percent in Buchanan, 5.2 percent to 9.9 percent in Dickenson, 5.1 percent to 6.5
percent in Russell and 4.5 percent to 7.5 percent in Tazewell. Unemployment
in the four counties continued to remain high through 2016 with rates of
for females. The low labor force participation rates in the District indicate a
disproportionately large number of people in the working age population who are
neither employed nor actively seeking employment.
It is believed that the main reason for the exceptionally low labor force
participation rates in the District as compared with the State as a whole is a large
number of discouraged workers. If the gap between labor force participation
between the District and the State as a whole is assumed to be related to the
discouragement phenomenon, 19,153 additional members of the working age
population can be counted as potential labor force participants.
e nemployment
Table 10 and Figure 10 also present annual unemployment data for the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District, from 2000 through 2016. In 2016,
unemployment is the same in Buchanan, slightly lower in Dickenson, the same in
Russell County and the same in Tazewell County compared to 2015. A comparison
of the unemployment rate inereases from 2007 to 2015 shows a huge increase in
unemployment in all four counties: from 4.9 percent unemployment in 2007 to 10.8
percent in Buchanan, 5.2 percent to 9.9 percent in Dickenson, 5.1 percent to 6.5
percent in Russell and 4.5 percent to 7.5 percent in Tazewell. Unemployment
in the four counties continued to remain high through 2016 with rates of
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 28
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 29
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC Virginia
2000 5.8% 5.8% 5.1% 5.1% 5.3% 2.3%
2001 6.0% 7.0% 6.4% 4.9% 5.8% 3.2%
2002 7.1% 7.8% 6.3% 5.8% 6.4% 4.2%
2003 7.0% 8.4% 6.2% 5.4% 6.3% 4.1%
2004 5.6% 6.1% 5.7% 4.6% 5.3% 3.7%
2005 5.3% 6.3% 5.7% 4.5% 5.2% 3.5%
2006 4.9% 5.1% 5.9% 3.9% 4.8% 3.0%
2007 4.9% 5.2% 5.1% 4.5% 4.8% 3.1%
2008 5.0% 5.8% 5.8% 4.4% 5.0% 4.0%
2009 8.7% 8.8% 10.7% 7.7% 8.8% 6.9%
2010 8.7% 8.7% 10.1% 6.9% 8.3% 6.9%
2011 7.3% 8.1% 9.3% 6.5% 7.6% 6.2%
2012 7.8% 9.2% 8.8% 7.0% 7.9% 5.9%
2013 9.8% 10.0% 8.7% 7.0% 8.4% 5.5%
2014 10.4% 9.9% 8.0% 8.0% 6.2% 5.2%
2015 10.8% 10.1% 6.5% 7.5% 8.1% 4.0%
2016 10.8% 9.9% 6.5% 7.5% 8.1% 4.0%
Source: Virginia Employment Office
Source: Virginia Employment Office
Average Unemployment Rates
2000-2016
Average Unemployment Rates
2000-2016
0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% 10.0% 12.0%
Buchanan
Dickenson
Russell
Tazewell
CPPDC
Virginia 2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
‘Average Unemployment Rates
0.0%
2.0%
4.0%
6.0%
8.0% 10.0%
12.0%
2000-2016
Year| Buchanan | Dickenson | Russell Tazewell croc | Virginia
2000 5.8% 5.8% 5.1% 5.1% 5.3% 2.3%
2001 6.0% 7.0% 6.4% 4.9% 5.856 3.2%
2002 7.1% 7.8% 6.3% 5.8% 6.4% 4.2%
2003 7.0% 3.4% 6.2% 5.4% 6.3% 41%
2008 5.6% 6.1% 5.7% 4.656 5.3% 3.7%
2005 5.3% 6.3% 5.7% 4.5% 5.256 3.5%
2006 49% 5.1% 5.9% 3.9% 4.8% 3.0%
2007 4.9% 5.2% 5.1% 4.5% 4.856 3.1%
2008 5.0% 5.8% 5.8% 4.456 5.056 4.0%
2008 8.7% 3.8% 10.7% 77% 8.8% 6.9%
2010 8.7% 8.7% 10.1% 6.9% 8.3% 6.9%
2011 73% 8.1% 9.3% 6.5% 7.656 6.2%
2012 7.8% 9.2% 8.8% 7.0% 7.9% 5.9%
2013 9.8% 10.0% 87% 7.0% 8.4% 5.5%
2014 10.4% 9.9% 8.0% 8.0% 6.2% 5.2%
2015 10.8% 10.1% 6.5% 7.5% 8.196 4.0%
2016 10.8% 9.9% 6.5% 7.5% 8.1% 4.0%
Source: Virginia Employment Office
‘Average Unemployment Rates
2000-2016
Virginia 2016
201s
2014
cppoc 2013
2012
m2011
Tazewell 2010
= 2009
2008
Russell = 2007
2006
2005
Dickenson 2004
2003
= 2002
Buchanan 2001
= 2000
‘Source: Virginia Employment Office
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 29
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 30
10.8 percent (Buchanan), 9.9 percent (Dickenson), 6.5 percent (Russell) and 7.5
percent (Tazewell). In comparison, Virginia's unemployment during 2016 was 4.0
percent and the Cumberland Plateau Planning District as a whole posted a rate of
8.1 percent, as shown in Table 10.
d. Principal Labor Needs
While the annual unemployment rates for the district have been fluctuating
within a range of 4.8 to 8.1 percent, the monthly rates have remained fairly stable
within a given year, reflecting the non-seasonal nature of the economies within the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District. Table 10 and Figure 10 show the
unemployment rates in the four counties in 2016, which fluctuated between
10.8 percent in Buchanan, 9.9 percent in Dickenson, 6.5 percent in Russell and 7.5
percent in Tazewell. This pattern of fluctuations follows normal yearly business
cycles and indicates that the target area is primarily dependent upon non-seasonal
employment. Table 11 and figure 11 present employment by industry data and
show that the largest percentages of employment in the four county area are in
retail trade, health care and social assistance sectors in 2011-2015 estimates.
Mining employment is the third largest sector. The percent of employment in
mining was appreciably smaller in Tazewell County (3.98 percent) and Russell
County (4.10 percent) than it was in Dickenson County (20.98 percent) or Buchanan
County (16.55 percent), reiterating the relative diversity of the economies in
Tazewell and Russell as opposed to the other two counties. The figures for mining
employment in 2015 are considerably smaller than they were in 2000 in all four
counties due to
10.8 percent (Buchanan), 9.9 percent (Dickenson), 6.5 percent (Russell) and 7.5
percent (Tazewell). In comparison, Virginia's unemployment during 2016 was 4.0
percent and the Cumberland Plateau Planning District as a whole posted a rate of
8.1 percent, as shown in Table 10.
d. Principal Labor Needs
While the annual unemployment rates for the district have been fluctuating
within a range of 4.8 to 8.1 percent, the monthly rates have remained fairly stable
within a given year, reflecting the non-seasonal nature of the economies within the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District. Table 10 and Figure 10 show the
unemployment rates in the four counties in 2016, which fluctuated between
10.8 percent in Buchanan, 9.9 percent in Dickenson, 6.5 percent in Russell and 7.5
percent in Tazewell. This pattern of fluctuations follows normal yearly business
cycles and indicates that the target area is primarily dependent upon non-seasonal
employment. Table 11 and figure 11 present employment by industry data and
show that the largest percentages of employment in the four county area are in
retail trade, health care and social assistance sectors in 2011-2015 estimates.
Mining employment is the third largest sector. The percent of employment in
mining was appreciably smaller in Tazewell County (3.98 percent) and Russell
County (4.10 percent) than it was in Dickenson County (20.98 percent) or Buchanan
County (16.55 percent), reiterating the relative diversity of the economies in
Tazewell and Russell as opposed to the other two counties. The figures for mining
employment in 2015 are considerably smaller than they were in 2000 in all four
counties due to
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 30
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 31
Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
% % % % %
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting 0.22% 0.45% 0.89% 0.27% 0.41%
Mining 16.55% 20.98% 4.10% 3.98% 8.39%
Utilities *** 0.45% *** *** 0.82%
Construction 6.11% 5.19% 8.54% 3.82% 5.48%
Manufacturing 2.59% 0.60% 5.83% 6.88% 5.10%
Wholesale Trade 1.90% 0.90% 0.72% 3.31% 2.19%
Retail Trade 11.21% 11.92% 12.23% 19.21% 15.25%
Transportation and Warehousing 3.78% 4.29% 3.43% 2.21% 3.02%
Information 0.42% 0.36% 0.84% 0.58% 0.58%
Finance and Insurance 2.33% 1.86% 3.22% 2.47% 2.54%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 0.42% *** 0.30% 1.02% 0.63%
Professional and Technical Services 3.94% 6.60% 8.47% 2.69% 4.64%
Management of Companies and Enterprises 1.13% *** 0.29% 2.13% 1.31%
Administrative and Waste Services *** *** *** 1.82% 3.65%
Educational Services 11.87% 13.63% 10.96% *** 11.28%
Health Care and Social Assistance 12.36% 14.20% 15.66% 16.09% 15.03%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation *** *** *** 0.95% 0.54%
Accommodation and Food Services 4.25% 5.31% 7.80% 8.14% 6.97%
Other Services, Ex. Public Admin 2.33% 1.71% 2.32% 6.09% 4.02%
Public Administration 10.70% 9.40% 6.97% 6.68% 7.86%
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Table 11
Distribution of Employment 2016
Industry
Distribution of Employment 2016
Table 11
Industry Buchanan | Dickenson | Russell | Tazewell | CPPDC
% % % % %
[Agricuiture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting 0.22% | 045% | 0.80% | 027% | 041%
Mining 16.55% | 20.98% | 410% | 3.98% | 8.30%
Uiilties ” 0.45% - 0.82%
Construction 611% | 5.19% | 854% | 3.82% | 5.48%
Manufacturing 2.59% | 0.60% | 5.83% | 688% | 5.10%
|Wholesale Trade 1.90% | 0.90% | 072% | 331% | 219%
Retail Trade 11.21% | 11.92% | 12.23% | 19.21% | 15.25%
Transportation and Warehousing 3.78% | 429% | 343% | 221% | 3.02%
Information 0.42% | 0.36% | 0.84% | 0.58% | 0.58%
Finance and Insurance 2.33% | 1.86% | 3.22% | 247% | 2.54%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 0.42% - 0.30% 1.02% | 0.63%
Professional and Technical Services 3.94% | 6.60% | 847% | 269% | 4.64%
Management of Companies and Enterprises 1.13% ” 0.29% | 213% 1.31%
|Administrative and Waste Services ” ” - 1.82% | 3.65%
Educational Services 11.87% | 13.63% | 10.96% - 11.28%
Health Care and Social Assistance 12.36% | 14.20% | 15.66% | 16.09% | 15.03%
lArts, Entertainment, and Recreation - - - 0.95% | 0.54%
|Accommodation and Food Services 425% | 531% | 7.80% | 8.14% | 6.97%
JOther Services, Ex. Public Admin 2.33% | 1.71% | 232% | 6.09% | 4.02%
Public Administration 10.70% | 9.40% | 6.97% | 6.68% | 7.86%
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 31
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 32
technology increases in mining which have reduced the amount of human labor
required. These figures will continue to decline in the future. The two counties with
the highest concentrations of mining employment, Buchanan and Dickenson, have
consistently recorded average weekly wage rates that are higher than those in
Russell and Tazewell Counties, as illustrated in Tables 12 and Figure 12. These
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Distribution of Employment 2016
Figure 11
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting
Mining
Utilities
Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Transportation and Warehousing
Information
Finance and Insurance
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
Professional and Technical Services
Management of Companies and Enterprises
Administrative and Waste Services
Educational Services
Health Care and Social Assistance
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
Accommodation and Food Services
Other Services, Ex. Public Admin
Public Administration
CPPDC
Tazewell
Russell
Dickenson
Buchanan
Figure 11
Distribution of Employment 2016
Public Administration
(Other Services, Ex Public Admin
‘Accommodation and Food Services
‘Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
Health Careand Social Assistance
Educational Services
‘Administrative and Waste Services
Management of Companies and Enterprises
Professional and Technical Services, mcPpoc
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing Tazewell
Finance and Insurance Russell
Information Dickenson
Buchanan
‘Transportation and Warehousing
Retail Trade
Wholesale Trade
Manufacturing
Construction
Utiities
Mining -
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting
0% 5% 10% 18% 20% 25%
‘Source: Virginia Employment Commission
technology increases in mining which have reduced the amount of human labor
required. These figures will continue to decline in the future. The two counties with
the highest concentrations of mining employment, Buchanan and Dickenson, have
consistently recorded average weekly wage rates that are higher than those in
Russell and Tazewell Counties, as illustrated in Tables 12 and Figure 12. These
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 32
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 33
1990 2000 2010 2016
Buchanan County $477 $525 $841 $795
Dickenson County $396 $455 $728 $714
Russell County $365 $469 $638 $734
Tazewell County $348 $426 $599 $619
CPPDC $397 $461 $675 $690
Virginia $438 $676 $955 $1,055
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Table 12
Average Weekly Wages
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting $455 $663 $620 $726 $639 $635
Mining $1,568 $1,312 $1,131 $1,161 $1,363 $1,277
Utilities *** $775 *** *** $1,375 $1,583
Construction $890 $873 $759 $782 $808 $1,027
Manufacturing $1,432 $782 $623 $785 $812 $1,103
Wholesale Trade $1,270 $985 $720 $761 $858 $1,473
Retail Trade $388 $427 $469 $435 $433 $545
Transportation and Warehousing $708 $899 $661 $617 $695 $983
Information $561 $418 738 $669 $655 $1,783
Finance and Insurance $618 $649 $782 $713 $709 $1,702
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing $691 *** $514 $566 $584 $1,017
Professional and Technical Services $626 $584 $1,042 $775 $828 $1,929
Management of Companies and Enterprises $1,271 *** $1,029 $950 $1,022 $2,206
Administrative and Waste Services *** *** *** $477 $553 $766
Educational Services $603 556 605 *** $585 $847
Health Care and Social Assistance $651 $477 $928 $702 $723 $936
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation *** *** *** $284 $277 $495
Accommodation and Food Services $267 $239 $252 $270 $263 $357
Other Services, Ex. Public Admin $490 $660 $821 $592 $612 $807
Public Administration $697 $549 $793 $619 $666 $1,446
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Table 12
Average Weekly Wages 2016
Industry Buchanan
Wages
Dickenson
Wages
Russell
Wages
Tazewell
Wages
CPPDC
Wages
Virginia
Wages
Table 12
Average Weekly Wages
1990 2000, 2010 2016
[Buchanan County $477 $525, $841 $795
Dickenson County $396 $455, $728 sma
Russell County $365 $469 $638 $734
{Tazewell County $348 $426 $599 $619
cpPoc $397 $461 $675, $690
virginia $438 $676 $955 $1,055,
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Table 12
Average Weekly Wages 2016,
Industry Buchanan | Dickenson | Russel | Tazewol | GPPDC | Virgina
Wages | Wages | _Wages_| Wages _|_Wages_| Wages
[Aaricuture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting $455 96563 $3620 $728 9639 3635
Ining sises | sisiz | siist | site: | sises | siz
vsttes aa $775 ~ ~ sis7s | $1,583
Construction 890 $873 $759 s7ez $808 $1,027
IManufactxing $1,432 s7e2 9628 S785 ser $1,108
Wholesale Trade 81.270 9985 s720 S761 $858 81.473,
Retail Trace $368 sar $469 $435 $433 9545
Hransportation and Warehousing $708 $899 3661 S617 3695 $983
itormation $561 sa18 738 3669 9655, $1,783
[Finance and Insurance $618 3649 s7e2 S713 $709 $1,702
[Real Estate and Rental and Leasing $691 - ssi8 $566 584 $1017
Protessional and Techical Senices $628 $508 si.082 S775, $828 $1,929
[Management of Comparies and Enterprises | $1271 81.029 $950 size | $2206
Administrative and Waste Services ™ sar7 9553, $766
[Educational Senices $603 605 3585, sear
Heath Caro and Social Assistance $651 $028 $702 8723 3936
Js, Entertainment, and Recreation ” ” “ $284 sor7 $495
JAccommodation and Food Senices $267 $239 $282 $270 $263 8357
loter Services, Ex Public Admin 490 $660 $821 $582 S612 $807
[Pubic Administration $697 $549 $793 S619 3865 $1,446
Source: Vigna Employment Commission
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 33
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 34
high weekly wage averages reflect the good wages available within the mining
sector, but do not reflect the large numbers of laid off miners and unemployed
persons in the two counties. Obviously, the mining industries cannot employ all of
the local residents who would like to have a job, and there were few alternative
sources of employment outside the mining sector. The figures and table for 2015
show that the average weekly wage in most sectors fell below the State average.
Decreases in average weekly wage rates may continue into the next few years as
productivity increases and intense competition within the coal and alternative
fuels industries forebode further cutbacks in mining employment and/or wages.
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Figure 12
Average Weekly Wages 2015
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
Buchanan Wages
Dickenson Wages
Russell Wages
Tazewell Wages
CPPDC Wages
Virginia Wages
Figure 12
‘Averane Weekly Wages 2015
$2,500
$2,000
sm uchanan Wages
Dickenson Wages
sm Russell Wages
Tazewell Wages
mcPPOC Wages
Virginia Wages
‘Source: Virginia Employment Commission
high weekly wage averages reflect the good wages available within the mining
sector, but do not reflect the large numbers of laid off miners and unemployed
persons in the two counties. Obviously, the mining industries cannot employ all of
the local residents who would like to have a job, and there were few alternative
sources of employment outside the mining sector. The figures and table for 2015
show that the average weekly wage in most sectors fell below the State average.
Decreases in average weekly wage rates may continue into the next few years as
productivity increases and intense competition within the coal and alternative
fuels industries forebode further cutbacks in mining employment and/or wages.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 34
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 35
Since mining jobs pay wages two to three times those of the average service job,
even if many of the laid-off miners could find sources of employment, which
has not been the case thus far, the loss incurred in the communities' overall
cash flow would be substantial.
Average weekly wage rates in Russell and Tazewell Counties have been
consistently lower than those for the State of Virginia as a whole from 2000 to 2015.
With less of their labor force in high-wage mining jobs during these years, adjusted
weekly wage rates in the two counties ranged from $252 to $1,161, lower than the
State's range of $357 to $2,206. However, the wide variety of jobs which provide
these wages may be more secure than those which provide higher wages in
Buchanan and Dickenson Counties but are solely dependent upon the mining sector.
Average weekly wages continued to grow through 2015 but at a slower rate. The
slower rate is due in part to continuing decline in the coal mining sector. Average
weekly wage rates which are below the State's averages may prove to be an
advantage to the area as local governments and economic development agencies
attempt to attract new businesses to the Cumberland Plateau Area.
Career and technology centers are located in each of the counties to provide
students and adults with specific job skills. The Buchanan County Career and
Technology Center (Grundy) had an enrollment of approximately 260 students in
the 2012-2013 school year, Dickenson County Career and Technology Center
(Clinchco) had 190 students enrolled in this year, 327 students were enrolled at the
Russell County Career and Technology Center (Lebanon) and 335 were enrolled in
programs at the Tazewell County Career and Technology Center (Tazewell). These
ce mining jobs pay wages two to three times those of the average service job,
even if many of the laid-off miners could find sources of employment, which
has not been the case thus far, the loss incurred in the communities’ overall
cash flow would be substanti
Average weekly wage rates in Russell and Tazewell Counties have been
consistently lower than those for the State of Virginia as a whole from 2000 to 2015.
With less of their labor force in high-wage mining jobs during these years, adjusted
weekly wage rates in the two counties ranged from $252 to $1,161, lower than the
State's range of $357 to $2,206. However, the wide variety of jobs which provide
these wages may be more secure than those which provide higher wages in
Buchanan and Dickenson Counties but are solely dependent upon the mining sector.
Average weekly wages continued to grow through 2015 but at a slower rate. The
slower rate is due in part to continuing decline in the coal mining sector. Average
weekl
wage rates which are below the State's averages may prove to be an
advantage to the area as local governments and economic development agencies
attempt to attract new businesses to the Cumberland Plateau Area,
Career and technology centers are located in each of the counties to provide
students and adults with specific job skills. The Buchanan County Career and
Technology Center (Grundy) had an enrollment of approximately 260 students in
the 2012-2013 school year, Dickenson County Career and Technology Center
(Clincheo) had 190 students enrolled in this year, 327 students were enrolled at the
Russell County Career and Technology Center (Lebanon) and 335 were enrolled in
programs at the Tazewell County Career and Technology Center (Tazewell). These
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 35
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 36
vocational schools offer training for high school students, and adults in areas such
as auto repair, carpentry, cosmetology, electronics, masonry, mine machinery
repair, practical nursing, and welding.
E. The Economy
a. Principal Economic Activity
As shown in Table 13, the principal economic activity in terms of
employment in the Planning District is shifting away from mining. In 2015 the
principal employment activity was retail service with 15.25 percent followed by
Health Care and Social Assistance with 15.03 percent. Mining accounted for 8.39
percent of total employment. However, trade is still not as important when both
employment and income are compared. Agriculture and forestry are relatively
insignificant as sources of employment. At present, tourism does not have a
significant impact on the local economy.
b.. Recent Trends in Economic Activity
In recent years the trade and service sectors have increased in importance as
a source of employment. Between 2000 and 2015 employment in the service sector
continued to increase. Increases in these sectors helped offset losses in mining and
mining related manufacturing. Table 14 shows that taxable sales, which indicates a
growing service sector, have increased substantially since 2000.
Another fairly recent development in Russell County was the loss of three
automobile parts manufacturers, which employed about 1400 people. This has been
partially offset by two information technology industries that employ approximately
600 people. Other industrial development projects assisted through State and
vocational schools offer training for high school students, and adults in areas such
as auto repair, carpentry, cosmetology, electronics, masonry, mine machinery
repair, practical nursing, and welding.
E. The Economy
a, Principal Economic Activity
As shown in Table 13, the principal economic activity in terms of
employment in the Planning District is shifting away from mining. In 2015 the
principal employment activity was retail service with 15.25 percent followed by
Health Care and Social Assistance with 15.03 percent. Mining accounted for 8.39
percent of total employment. However, trade is still not as important when both
employment and income are compared. Agriculture and forestry are relatively
insignificant as sources of employment. At present, tourism does not have a
significant impact on the local economy.
b.. Recent Trends in Economic Activity
In recent years the trade and service sectors have increased in importance as
a source of employment. Between 2000 and 2015 employment in the service sector
continued to increase. Increases in these sectors helped offset losses in mining and
mining related manufacturing. Table 14 shows that taxable sales, whic
growing service sector, have increased substantially since 2000.
Another fairly recent development in Russell County was the loss of three
automobile parts manufacturers, which employed about 1400 people. This has been
partially offset by two information technology industries that employ approximately
600 people. Other industrial development projects assisted through State and
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 36
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 37
Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
% % % % %
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting 0.22% 0.45% 0.89% 0.27% 0.41%
Mining 16.55% 20.98% 4.10% 3.98% 8.39%
Utilities *** 0.45% *** *** 0.82%
Construction 6.11% 5.19% 8.54% 3.82% 5.48%
Manufacturing 2.59% 0.60% 5.83% 6.88% 5.10%
Wholesale Trade 1.90% 0.90% 0.72% 3.31% 2.19%
Retail Trade 11.21% 11.92% 12.23% 19.21% 15.25%
Transportation and Warehousing 3.78% 4.29% 3.43% 2.21% 3.02%
Information 0.42% 0.36% 0.84% 0.58% 0.58%
Finance and Insurance 2.33% 1.86% 3.22% 2.47% 2.54%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 0.42% *** 0.30% 1.02% 0.63%
Professional and Technical Services 3.94% 6.60% 8.47% 2.69% 4.64%
Management of Companies and Enterprises 1.13% *** 0.29% 2.13% 1.31%
Administrative and Waste Services *** *** *** 1.82% 3.65%
Educational Services 11.87% 13.63% 10.96% *** 11.28%
Health Care and Social Assistance 12.36% 14.20% 15.66% 16.09% 15.03%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation *** *** *** 0.95% 0.54%
Accommodation and Food Services 4.25% 5.31% 7.80% 8.14% 6.97%
Other Services, Ex. Public Admin 2.33% 1.71% 2.32% 6.09% 4.02%
Public Administration 10.70% 9.40% 6.97% 6.68% 7.86%
Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Industry
Table 13
Distribution of Employment 2016
Table 13
Distribution of Employment 2016
Industry Buchanan | Dickenson | Russell Tazewell ‘CPPDC
% % % % %
(Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting 022% 0.45% 0.89% 027% O4t%
IMining 16.55% 20.98% 4.10% 3.98% 8.39%
Usities 0.45% - ” 0.82%
[Construction 6.11% 5.19% 8.54% 3.82% 5.48%
[Manufacturing 2.59% 0.60% 5.83% 6.88% 5.10%
Wholesale Trade 1.90% 0.90% 0.72% 3.31% 2.19%
Retail Trade 11.21% 11.92% 12.23% 10.21% 15.25%
Transportation and Warehousing 3.78% 4.29% 3.43% 2.21% 3.02%
Information 0.42% 0.36% 0.84% 0.58% 0.58%
[Finance and Insurance 2.33% 1.86% 3.22% 247% 2.54%
[Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 0.42% ~ 0.30% 1.02% 0.63%
[Professional and Technical Services 3.98% 6.60% 847% 2.69% 4.88%
Management of Companies and Enterprises. 1.13% ~ 0.29% 2.13% 1.31%
lAdministratve and Waste Services . oo 1.82% 3.65%
|Educational Services 11.87% 13.63% 10.96% a 11.28%
Heath Care and Social Assistance 12.36% 14.20% 15.66% 16.00% 18.03%
Acts, Entertainment, and Recreation “ “ “ 0.95% 0.54%
|Accommodation and Food Services 4.25% 5.31% 7.80% 8.14% 6.97%
lother Services, Ex Pubic Admin 2.33% 171% 2.32% 6.09%6 4.02%
[Pubic Administration 10.70% 9.40% 6.97% 6.68% 7.86%
‘Source: Virginia Employment Commission
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 37
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 38
Federal funding include: Wardell Industrial Park - three industries, two non-mining
related and one mining related, have expanded in the park, creating 190 new jobs.
There have been no major bankruptcies that have had a significant impact
upon the economy.
c. Median Family and Per Capita Income
Tables 15 and 16 and Figures 15 and 16 show that median family income increased
in all four counties between 1990 and 2011-2015 average. The problem, however, is
that all of the counties continue to lag behind the State. Between 1990 and 2011-
2015 median family income in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Counties
increased by 71.59, 116.98, 120.60 and 108.04 percent respectively. During this
same period the State increased by 118.00 percent. Even though the counties
increased in per capita income at a significant rate, there is still a great disparity
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
2000 $115,923,478 $48,398,260 $107,862,419 $409,177,303 $681,361,460
2001 $114,597,950 $47,977,617 $101,878,423 $414,883,974 $679,337,964
2002 $114,720,922 $49,531,310 $122,525,574 $421,810,028 $708,587,834
2003 $112,152,118 $50,249,767 $129,188,820 $439,228,597 $730,819,302
2004 $116,924,712 $52,914,791 $138,753,368 $462,767,675 $771,360,546
2005 $107,211,477 $50,357,215 $132,085,662 $433,462,904 $723,117,258
2006 $123,290,187 $57,182,687 $149,040,720 $503,888,173 $833,401,767
2007 $127,687,900 $60,083,344 $156,657,814 $520,718,233 $865,147,291
2008 $139,948,887 $63,232,095 $161,030,985 $541,605,045 $905,817,012
2009 $127,560,716 $64,054,957 $157,889,960 $532,354,982 $881,860,615
2010 $125,345,514 $65,984,411 $158,276,136 $531,158,462 $880,764,523
2011 $142,304,553 $68,042,398 $159,840,501 $540,216,247 $910,403,699
2012 $156,984,874 $66,417,728 $160,139,687 $552,018,668 $935,560,957
2013 $148,802,737 $65,552,723 $153,199,811 $527,292,801 $894,848,072
2014 $147,726,232 $69,962,263 $159,893,054 $521,246,767 $898,828,316
2015 $141,875,222 $60,520,561 $172,010,922 $531,489,881 $905,896,586
2016 $134,661,123 $58,322,259 $158,768,726 $515,363,533 $867,115,641
Source: Virginia Department of Taxation
Taxable Sales 2000-2016
Table 14
Taxable Sales 2000-2016
Table 14
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
2000 $115,923,478 | $48,398,260 | $107,862,419 | $409,177,303 [ $681,361,460
2001 $114,597,950 | $47,977,617 | $101,878,423 | $414,883,974 | $679,337,964
2002 $114,720,922 | $49,531,310 | $122,525,574 | $421,810,028 [ $708,587,834
2003 $112,152,118 | $50,249,767 | $129,188,820 | $439,228,597 | $730,819,302
2004 $16,924,712 $52,914,791, $138,753,368 $462,767,675 $771,360,546
2005 $107,211,477 $50,357,215, $132,085,662 $433,462,904 $723,117,258
2006 $123,290,187 $57,182,687 $149,040,720 $503,888,173 $833,401,767
2007 $127,687,900 | $60,083,344 | $156,657,814 | $520,718,233 [ $865,147,291
2008 $139,948,887 | $63,232,095 | $161,030,985 | $541,605,045 [ $905,817,012
2009 $127,560,716 | $64,054,957 | $157,889,960 | $532,354,982 [| $81,860,615
2010 $125,345,514 | $65,984,411 | $18,276,136 | $531,158,462 | $80,764,523
2011 $142,304,553 | $68,042,398 | $159,840,501 | $540,216,247 | $910,403,699
2012 $156,984,874 | $66,417,728 | $160,139,687 | $552,018,668 [ $935,560,957
2013 $148,802,737 | $65,552,723 | $153,199.81 | $527,292,801 [ $894,848,072
2014 $147,726,232 | $69,962,263 | $19,893,054 | $521,246,767 [| $898,828,316
2015 $141,875,222 | $60,520,561 | $172,010,922 | $531,489,881 [ $905,896,586
2016 $134,661,123 $58,322,259 $158,768,726 $515,363,533 $867,115,641
Source: Virginia Department of Taxation
Federal funding include: Wardell Industrial Park - three industries, two non-mining
related and one mining related, have expanded in the park, creating 190 new jobs.
There have been no major bankruptcies that have had a sign
icant impact
upon the economy.
¢. Median Family and Per Capita Income
Tables 15 and 16 and Figures 15 and 16 show that median family income increased
in all four counties between 1990 and 2011-2015 average. The problem, however, is
that all of the counties continue to lag behind the State, Between 1990 and 2011-
2015 median family income in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Counties
increased by 71.59, 116.98, 120.60 and 108.04 percent respectively. During this
same period the State increased by 118.00 percent, Even though the counties
increased in per capita income at a significant rate, there is still a great disparity
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 38
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 39
with the State
Median Family Income 1990 2000 2011-2015
Buchanan County 22,464 27,328 38,546
Dickenson County 19,498 27,986 44,227
Russell County 21,777 31,491 48,040
Tazewell County 23,535 33,732 48,963
Virginia 38,213 54,169 83,306
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000 data and 20011-2015 American Community Survey data
Table 15
Median Family Income
Figure 15
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
Buchanan County Dickenson
County
Russell County Tazewell County Virginia
1990
2000
2011-2015
with the State
Median Family Income
Table 15
[Median Family income 1990 2000 2011-2015
[Buchanan County 22,464 27,328 38,546
Dickenson County 19,498 27,986 44,227
Russell County 24777 31,491 48,040
[Tazewell County 23,535, 33,732 48,963
[Virginia 38,213 54,169 83,306
Figure 15
90,000
80,000
70,000
60,000
50,000
40,000 2000
30,000 2011-2015
20,000
10,000
o
Buchanan County Dickenson
County
Russell County Tazewell County
1990
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000 data and 20011-2015 American Community Survey data
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 39
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 40
on the actual dollar amounts of the median family incomes. The same trend holds
PerCapita Income
Table 16
PerCapita Income 1990 2000 2011-2015
Buchanan County 13,875 12,788 17,883
Dickenson County 11,793 12,822 20,275
Russell County 11,972 14,863 20,053
Tazewell County 13,797 15,282 22,721
Virginia 20,527 23,975 36,206
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000 data and 2011-2015 American Community Survey data
Figure 16
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
Buchanan
County
Dickenson
County
Russell County Tazewell
County
Virginia
1990
2000
2011-2015
PerCapita Income
Table 16
PerCapita Income 1990 2000 2011-2015,
[Buchanan County 13,875, 12,788 17,883
Dickenson County 11,793 12,822 20,275
Russell County 11,972 14,863 20,053
[Tazewell County 13,797 15,282 22,721
Virginia 20,527 23,975 36,206
Figure 16
40,000
35,000
30,000
25,000
1990
20,000
= 2000
15,000 = 2011-2015
10,000
5,000
0
Buchanan Dickenson Russell County Tazewell inia
County County County
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000 data and 2011-2015 American Community Survey data
on the actual dollar amounts of the median family incomes. The same trend holds
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 40
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 41
for per capita income. From 1990 – 2011-2015 average per capita income increased
by 28.88% in Buchanan County, 71.92% in Dickenson County 67.49% in Russell
County and by 64.68% in Tazewell County. State per capita income increased by
76.38% for the same period. The counties of the planning district would have to
grow at a much faster rate for several years in order to close the income gap. This
decrease relative to the State results from losing high paying mining jobs and
replacing them with lower paying manufacturing and telecommunications jobs.
d. Economic Ties to Surrounding Area
The area's economy is somewhat tied to the coalfields of Eastern Kentucky
and Southern West Virginia, because some of the people who live along the
District’s border work in these states. Ties with other areas in Virginia have been
less evident, but there is a rise in commuters coming into the District to work in the
new IT companies such as CGI, Northrup Grumman, Sykes and SI. There is,
however, out-leakage of disposable income due to the drawing power of the
commercial sector in the Tri-Cities area.
e. Financial Resources
The financial resources of the District are substantial according to Table 17.
Deposits in banks, Savings and Loans and Credit Unions are approximately 2.3
billion dollars. The problem, however is that many of the banks in the area are
affiliated with large State banks and are therefore reluctant to invest in the local
for per capita income. From 1990 — 2011-2015 average per capita income increased
by 28.88% in Buchanan County, 71.92% in Dickenson County 67.49% in Russell
County and by 64.68% in Tazewell County. State per capita income
creased by
76.38% for the same period. The counties of the planning district would have to
grow at a much faster rate for several years in order to close the income gap.
is
decrease relative to the State results from losing high paying mining jobs and
replacing them with lower paying manufacturing and telecommunications jobs.
d. Economic Ties to Surrounding Area
The area's economy is somewhat tied to the coalfields of Eastern Kentucky
and Southern West Virginia, because some of the people who live along the
District’s border work in these states, Ties with other areas in Virginia have been
less evident, but there is a rise in commuters coming into the District to work in the
new IT companies such as CGI, Northrup Grumman, Sykes and SI. There is,
however, out-leakage of disposable income due to the drawing power of the
commercial sector in the Tri-Cities area.
e. Financial Resources
The financial resources of the District are substantial according to Table 17.
Deposits in banks, Savings and Loans and Credit Unions are approximately 2.3
billion dollars. The problem, however is that many of the banks in the area are
affiliated with large State banks and are therefore reluctant to invest in the local
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 41
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 42
economy.
All attempts to persuade the banks to collectively provide a pool of risk
capital has been unsuccessful. As a result of the lending policies of these banks,
industries seeking to locate in the area or existing industries seeking to expand are
sometimes forced to find other outside sources of financial capital. This is a barrier
to development that the planning district will continue trying to bridge.
f. Community Facilities and Services
Over the past several years, jurisdictions in the District have made
significant strides in improving their community facilities and services. In the
major towns, where most economic development occurs, water and sewer capacity is
sufficient for most light industry. Much remains, however, to be done in other areas
with potential for development.
Housing
Table 18 and Figure 18 profile housing units by the year in which they were
built. Housing stock differed somewhat in the District from those of the State as a
Locality 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
United States 4,003,744 4,326,207 4,606,092 5,132,110 5,464,782 5,933,763 6,449,864 6,702,212 7,025,791 7,559,590 7,676,878 8,249,233 8,947,239 9,433,525 10,112,716 11,979,347 12,519,652 13,091,400
Virginia 87,819 100,926 117,669 129,719 147,775 155,264 172,785 182,183 193,910 212,671 214,271 227,963 248,783 240,787 239,965 278,290 278,176 307,654
Buchanan County 371 385 380 410 423 440 503 509 522 509 516 506 518 510 512 502 493 486
Dickenson County 130 137 151 154 157 162 170 183 205 219 212 198 202 202 200 204 196 198
Russell County 288 320 323 338 346 348 388 427 461 496 535 517 516 509 506 505 517 501
Tazewell County 671 691 696 682 686 727 791 865 910 1,112 1,082 1,121 1,135 1,101 1,055 1,060 988 1,031
CPPDC 1,460 1,533 1,550 1,584 1,612 1,677 1,852 1,984 2,098 2,336 2,345 2,342 2,371 2,322 2,273 2,271 2,194 2,216
Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond
Note-Total Bank Deposits=Commercial Banks + Savings Institutions + US Branches of Foreign Banks
Note-Annual Estimates are as of June 30th of Each Year
Deposits in Banks, Savings Institutions and US Branches of Foreign Banks: 2000 - 2017 (Millions of $)
economy.
All attempts to persuade the banks to collectively provide a pool of risk
capital has been unsuccessful. As a result of the lending pol
ies of these banks,
industries seeking to locate in the area or existing industries seeking to expand are
sometimes forced to find other outside sources of financial capital. This is a barrier
to development that the planning district will continue trying to bridge.
f. Community Facilities and Services
Over the past several years, jurisdictions in the District have made
significant strides in improving their community facilities and services. In the
major towns, where most economic development occurs, water and sewer capacity is
sufficient for most light industry. Much remains, however, to be done in other areas
with potential for development.
Housing
Table 18 and Figure 18 profile housing w
by the year in which they were
built. Housing stock differed somewhat in the District from those of the State as a
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 42
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 43
whole. Of the year round residential structures in the State, 49.8 percent were built
before 1970 , while Dickenson , Russell and Tazewell had larger percentages of
pre-1970 structures (37.5, 43.43 and 34.56 percents, respectively), and Buchanan
Year Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC Virginia
2014 or Later 9 0 0 44 53 3823
2010 - 2013 159 37 78 115 389 61,957
2000-2009 1,262 956 1,905 1,489 5612 547,215
1990-1999 1,664 1,186 2,307 3,503 8660 550,964
1980-1989 1,645 1,149 1,938 2,910 7642 574,843
1970-1979 3,150 1,856 2,917 4,185 12108 561,594
1960-1969 975 508 1,375 2,037 4895 378,759
1950-1959 1,191 609 925 2,005 4730 316,938
1940-1949 616 436 712 2,037 3801 163,958
1939 or Earlier 818 788 1,271 2,391 5268 263,240
Total 11,489 7,525 13,428 20,716 53,158 3,423,291
20011-2015 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey
20011-2015 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey
Housing Units by Year Built
Table 18
Figure 18
Housing Units by Year Built
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC
1939 or Earlier
1940-1949
1950-1959
1960-1969
1970-1979
1980-1989
1990-1999
2000-2009
2010 - 2013
2014 or Later
Table 18
Housing Units by Year Built
Year Buchanan | Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC. Virginia
2014 or Later 9 0 0 44 33 3823
2010 - 2013 159 37 8 115 389 61,957
2000-2009 1,262 956 1,905 1,489 5612 547,215
1990-1999 1,664 1,186 2,307 3,503 8660 550,964
1980-1989 1,645 1,149 1,938 2,910 7642 574,843
1970-1979 3,150 1,856 2,917 4,185 12108 561,594
1960-1969 975 508 1,375 2,087 4895 378,759
1950-1959 1,191 609 925 2,005 4730 316,938
1940-1949 616 436 712 2,037 3801 163,958
1939 orEarlier| 818 788 1271 2,391 5268 263,240
Total 11,489 7,525 13,428 20,716 53,158 3,423,291
20011-2015 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey
Figure 18
Housing Units by Year Built
14,000
12,000 111939 or Earlier
1940-1949
70,000 1950-1959
8,000 1960-1969
1970-1979
6,000 1980-1989
1990-1999
#000 2000-2009
2,000 2010-2013,
2014 or Later
°
Buchanan Dickenson ——_—Russell Tazewell cPPoC
20011-2015 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey
whole. Of the year round residential structures in the State, 49.8 percent were built
before 1970 , while Dickenson , Russell and Tazewell had larger percentages of
pre-1970 structures (37.5, 43.43 and 34.56 percents, respectively), and Buchanan
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 43
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 44
had fewer with only 37.9 percent.
The coal boom of the 1970's brought with it an increase in population and
income, which in turn resulted in an increased demand for new housing. All four
counties had larger percentages of houses built between 1970 and 1980 (Buchanan—
28.0 percent, Dickenson—28.0 percent, Russell—20.8 percent and Tazewell—21.7
percent) than did the State (16.9 percent). The percent of year-round units vacant,
a measure that can indicate a housing shortage or surplus, was only slightly higher
in the District (four county average of 12.81 percent) than in the State (7.6 percent)
in 2000. In Tazewell County, that rate was lower (11.6 percent), indicating that the
housing market in Tazewell counties in 1990's was better than the other counties in
the district.
Table 19 profiles the value of housing in the four counties. The district value
differed substantially from that of the State in the last census year. In 2015, the
median value for an owner-occupied unit in the District of $83,250 was 33.98
percent of the median value in the State ($245,000). Within the District, values of
houses had the lowest average in Buchanan County ($71,500) and highest in Russell
County ($96,000). Rents for renter-occupied units reflect this same trend with
the State reporting a substantially higher figure than in the four counties.
The 2011- 2015 information on the housing market indicates that housing
values have increased substantially in all four counties of the Cumberland
Plateau Planning District.
had fewer with only 37.9 percent,
The coal boom of the 1970's brought with it an increase in population and
income, which in turn resulted in an increased demand for new housing. All four
counties had larger percentages of houses built between 1970 and 1980 (Buchanan—
28.0 percent, Dickenson—28.0 percent, Russell—20.8 percent and Tazewell—21.7
percent) than did the State (16.9 percent). The percent of year-round units vacant,
a measure that can indicate a housing shortage or surplus, was only slightly higher
in the District (four county average of 12.81 percent) than in the State (7.6 percent)
in 2000. In Tazewell County, that rate was lower (11.6 percent), indicating that the
housing market in Tazewell counties in 1990's was better than the other counties in
the district.
Table 19 profiles the value of housing in the four counties. The district value
differed substanti:
from that of the State in the last census year. In 2015, the
median value for an owner-occupied unit in the District of $83,250 was 33.98
percent of the median value in the State ($245,000). Within the District, values of
houses had the lowest average in Buchanan County ($71,500) and highest in Russell
County ($96,000). Rents for renter-occupied units reflect this same trend with
the State reporting a substantially higher figure than in the four counties.
The 2011- 2015 information on the housing market indicates that housing
values have increased substantially in all four counties of the Cumberland
Plateau Planning District.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 44
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 45
Real estate agents in the four counties provided estimates that indicate that the
price of a standard house in the area (e.g., a three-bedroom house with central
heating, fireplace, two bathrooms, kitchen, living room and garage) has increased
between 2000 and 2015. The time that a house in these two counties stays on the
market before it is sold has increased from approximately three to four months in
2000 to seven to twelve months in 2015. The housing markets in Russell and
Tazewell Counties appear to be a bit stronger. Real estate agents estimate that
between 2000 and 2015, the price of a standard house has increased by
approximately 20 percent in Russell County and by 13 percent in Tazewell
County. In addition to these price increases, the length of time that a house will
remain on the market in Russell and Tazewell Counties is longer now than in 2000,
Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell CPPDC Virginia Buchanan
2011-2015
ACS
Dickenson
2011-2015
ACS
Russell
2011-2015
ACS
Tazewell
2011-2015
ACS
CPPDC
2011-2015
ACS
Virginia
2011-2015
ACS
Less than
$50,000 4,861 3,016 4,360 6,315 18,552 91,881 2,651 1,626 2,061 3,145 9,483 115,300
$50,000 to
$99,999 2,960 1,984 3,722 5,532 14,198 462,870 2,547 1,497 2,459 4,255 10,758 157,670
$100,000 to
$149,999 499 370 1,013 1,314 3,196 373,288 904 835 1,333 2,326 5,398 224,710
$150,000 to
$199,999 210 68 226 509 1,013 233,999 434 410 1,245 1,645 3,734 294,598
$200,000 to
$299,999 97 53 136 301 587 209,613 405 276 971 1,342 2,994 446,227
$300,000 to
$499,999 24 9 84 82 199 107,093 359 99 425 476 1,359 455,559
$500,000 to
$999,999 9 13 15 60 97 28,041 93 40 95 117 345 285,998
$1,000,000 or
more 14 12 8 14 48 4,013 56 22 25 132 235 46,943
.
Median
(dollars) 42,800 45,100 55,200 55,700 49,700 118,800 71,500 74,100 96,000 91,400 83,250 245,000
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2000 data) and 2011-2015 U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey Estimates
Value
2000 Census
Comparative Values for Owner Occupied Housing By Value Range
20011-2015 American Community Survey
ompaatve Values for Owner Ocuped Hous By Voie ange
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Real estate agents in the four counties provided estimates that indicate that the
price of a standard house in the area (e.g., a three-bedroom house with central
heating, fireplace, two bathrooms, kitchen, living room and garage) has increased
between 2000 and 2015. The time that a house in these two counties stays on the
market before it is sold has increased from approximately three to four months in
2000 to seven to twelve months in 2015. The housing markets in Russell and
Tazewell Counties appear to be a bit stronger. Real estate agents estimate that
between 2000 and 2015, the price of a standard house has increased by
approximately 20 percent in Russell County and by 13 percent in Tazewell
County. In addition to these price increases, the length of time that a house will
remain on the market in Russell and Tazewell Counties is longer now than in 2000,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 45
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 46
according to local real estate agents. The increase in the time needed to sell an
average slump, a decrease in supply or a combination of both factors. In this
case, both factors appear to play a role: low interest rates have made financing
affordable to greater numbers of potential home buyers, increasing the demand for
housing, and the number of houses being built in the two counties (i.e., the housing
supply) has decreased in recent years.
Table 20 summarizes data on the number of new building permits and public
contracts authorized in the Cumberland Plateau between 2000 and 2015. A
somewhat negative picture of the area's real estate market is portrayed in the table
since the number of building permits and public contracts authorized in the four
counties has decreased between 2000 and 2015, not surprising in view of the
nationwide housing slump and the decrease in the District’s population. Dickenson
and Tazewell Counties saw significant loss in the number of residential building
permits between 2000-2015. The gradual decline in building permits for housing
units might reflect pessimistic expectations about the future demand for new
housing in an area which has experienced severe economic dislocations and
significant population losses.
These economic dislocations have prompted a shift in demand away from
single-family homes and towards a less expensive alternative--mobile homes. Local
realtors estimate that the average house in Dickenson County is selling for about 2-3
according to local real estate agents. The increase in the time needed to sell an
average slump, a decrease in supply or a combination of both factors. In. this
case, both factors appear to play a role:
low interest rates have made financing
affordable to greater numbers of potential home buyers, increasing the demand for
housing, and the number of houses being built in the two counties (i.e., the housing
supply) has decreased in recent years.
Table 20 summarizes data on the number of new building permits and public
contracts authorized in the Cumberland Plateau between 2000 and 2015. A
somewhat negative picture of the area's real estate market is portrayed in the table
since the number of building permits and public contracts authorized in the four
counties has decreased between 2000 and 2015, not surprising in view of the
nationwide housing slump and the decrease in the District’s population. Dickenson
and Tazewell Counties saw significant loss in the number of residential building
permits between 2000-2015. The gradual decline in building permits for housing
units might reflect pessimistic expectations about the future demand for new
housing in an area which has experienced severe economic dislocations and
significant population losses.
These economic dislocations have prompted a shift in demand away from
single-family homes and towards a less expensive alternative--mobile homes. Local
realtors estimate that the average house in Dickenson County is selling for about 2-3
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 46
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 47
times what a single-wide mobile home (including the land on which it sits) will cost
the buyer.
A double-wide mobile home plus a small plot of land (one-fourth to one-half
acre) costs approximately two-thirds what a stick-built house would cost. The price
difference between a mobile home and a stick-built house makes the former the only
affordable choice for many residents.
Education
The educational system in the District includes private and public primary and
secondary schools, vocational schools, and several colleges. In the 2015-2016 school
year, a total of 15,520 students were enrolled in public elementary and secondary
schools throughout the four counties. The student/teacher ratios in Dickenson
(11.11), Russell (11.59), Tazewell (11.14) and Buchanan (12.64) were slightly lower
than the ratio for the State of Virginia as a whole (12.76), for the 2014-2015 school
year. (See Table 21.) Average teacher salaries for that same year were also lower in
the Cumberland Plateau Counties than in the State. Russell and Tazewell Counties
had the lowest average teacher salaries with $39,017 and $37,497, respectively ;
Locality 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Virginia 39,756 41,681 45,711 46,263 48,990 49,959 38,977 30,944 19,939 16,268 16,149 23,297 27,278 31,944 28,693 28,469
Buchanan County 17 18 20 22 12 14 13 10 18 15 18 12 10 10 9 2
Dickenson County 24 15 25 29 23 18 18 15 27 14 12 23 16 6 8 6
Russell County 58 64 61 59 74 79 117 79 34 26 40 29 24 19 21 17
Tazewell County 79 71 77 77 77 73 130 74 53 40 22 39 36 34 15 31
CPPDC 178 168 183 187 186 184 278 178 132 95 92 103 86 69 53 56
Source: United States Census Bureau
Number of Single Family Unit Permits Issued 2000 - 2015
Table 20
uenbe of Single ary Unit Permits sue 2000- 2015
Tale 20
[vee 39,756 [ans8i | 45,715 | 45263 | a8 900 | 49959] 38977 | 3094 [a9939 | 16268] 36105] 23297 | 27278 | auge4 | 2a02 | 2869
loctensoncouny | 2¢ | as | a5 | 29 | 22 | as | ae | as | a | «| 2 | a | aw | 6 | @ | 6
Iasewellcoutey pilalala|a[a|aol m[ ss | «@ | 2 |» | a | aw | os | a
lcrroc ama {60 [ses [ay | sas [aes [oe Tove [om fos | oe fam fo fo fo | 6
times what a single-wide mobile home (including the land on which it sits) will cost
the buyer.
A double-wide mobile home plus a small plot of land (one-fourth to one-half
acre) costs approximately two-thirds what a stick-built house would cost. The price
difference between a mobile home and a stick-built house makes the former the only
affordable choice for many residents.
Education
The educational system in the District includes private and public primary and
secondary schools, vocational schools, and several colleges. In the 2015-2016 school
year, a total of 15,520 students were enrolled in public elementary and secondary
schools throughout the four counties, The student/teacher ratios in Dickenson
(11.11), Russell (11.59), Tazewell (11.14) and Buchanan (12.64) were slightly lower
than the ratio for the State of Virginia as a whole (12.76), for the 2014-2015 school
year. (See Table 21.) Average teacher salaries for that same year were also lower in
the Cumberland Plateau Counties than in the State. Russell and Tazewell Counties
had the lowest average teacher salaries with $39,017 and $37,497, respectively ;
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 47
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 48
salaries in Dickenson ($40,667) and Buchanan ($45,036) were also well below the
State average of $54,889 for the 2016 year.
The higher numbers of students per teacher and lower teacher salaries,
combined with lower expenditures per pupil compared with the State have
contributed to producing an educational gap between the Cumberland Plateau area
and the State as a whole. This gap extends throughout Southwest Virginia and was
addressed by the Southwest Virginia Economic Development Commission in
Forward Southwest Virginia. Two key recommendations in this report are:
*to substantially increase spending on elementary and secondary
education; and
*to obtain appropriations from the General Assembly to be used by
the region's community colleges to mount an all-out assault on adult
illiteracy.
Career and technology centers are located in each of the counties to provide
students with specific job skills. The Buchanan County Career and Technology
Center (Grundy) had an enrollment of approximately 260 students in the 2012-2013
Elementary Virginia Buchanan Dickenson Russell Tazewell
Teaching Positions 58,568.41 128.25 123.30 204.89 358.00
End of Year Membership, K-7 764,952.04 1,737.42 1,338.47 2,310.37 3,594.82
Pupil/Teacher Ratio 13.06 13.55 10.86 11.28 10.04
Secondary
Teaching Positions 37,442.84 98.25 61.50 128.63 188.40
End of Year Membership, 8-12 466,738.26 1,153.18 1,552.57 1,530.73 2,306.96
Pupil/Teacher Ratio 12.47 11.74 11.37 11.90 12.25
Source: Virginia Department of Education Superintendent's Annual Report
Pupil Teacher Ratios Fiscal Year 2015 - 2016
Table 21
Pupil Teacher Ratios Fiscal Year 2015 - 2016
Table 21
[Elementary Virginia _[ Buchanan | Dickenson | Russell_| Tazewell
[Teaching Positions 58,568.41 | 128.25 | 123.30 | 204.89 | 358.00
End of Year Membership, K-7 764,952.04] 1,737.42 | 1,338.47 | 2,310.37 | 3,594.82
Pupil/Teacher Ratio 13.06] 13.55 10.86 11.28 10.04
Secondary
Teaching Positions 37,442.84 | 98.25 61.50 128.63 | 188.40
End of Year Membership, 8-12 466,738.26 | 1,153.18 | 1552.57 | 1,530.73 | 2,306.96
Pupil/Teacher Ratio 12.47 11.74 11.37, 11.90 12.25
Source: Virginia Department of Education Superintendent's Annual Report
salaries in Dickenson ($40,667) and Buchanan ($45,036) were also well below the
State average of $54,889 for the 2016 year.
The higher numbers of students per teacher and lower teacher salaries,
combined with lower expen
fures per pu
compared with the State have
contributed to producing an educational gap between the Cumberland Plateau area
and the State as a whole. This gap extends throughout Southwest Virginia and was
addressed by the Southwest Virginia Economic Development Commission in
Forward Southwest Virginia. Two key recommendations in this report are:
*to substantially increase spending on elementary and secondary
education; and
*to obtain appropriations from the General Assembly to be used by
the region's community colleges to mount an all-out assault on adult
iteracy.
Career and technology centers are located in each of the counties to provide
students with specific job ski
The Buchanan County Career and Technology
Center (Grundy) had an enrollment of approximately 260 students in the 2012-2013
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 48
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 49
school year, Dickenson County Career and Technology Center (Clinchco) had 190
students enrolled in that year, 327 students were enrolled at the Russell County
Career and Technology Center (Lebanon) and 335 were enrolled in programs at the
Tazewell County Career and Technology Center (Tazewell). These centers offer
training for high school students in areas such as auto repair, carpentry,
cosmetology, electronics, masonry, mine machinery repair, practical nursing, and
welding.
Tazewell County also offers post-secondary educational programs at two
two-year colleges, National Business College and Southwest Virginia Community
College, and at Bluefield College, a four-year institution. National Business College,
located in Bluefield, Virginia, offers seven associate degree programs and five
one-year diplomas in a variety of business courses. In Wardell, approximately
2,630 students (fall 2013-2014 enrollment) study at Southwest Virginia Community
College (SVCC) towards two-year associate degrees which include accounting, data
processing, business administration, engineering, nursing, mining and many other
areas. SVCC also offers one-year programs leading towards certificates in areas
which include banking, drafting, law enforcement, machine tool operations, mine
machinery maintenance, respiratory care and welding.
Bluefield College is a private, Baptist- affiliated liberal arts college offering
four-year programs leading to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in a
wide variety of disciplines, and two-year Associate of Arts, Associate of Science and
Associate of General Studies degree programs. In addition, pre-professional
programs to prepare students for graduate level study in law, medicine and
school year, Dickenson County Career and Technology Center (Clinchco) had 190
students enrolled in that year, 327 students were enrolled at the Russell County
Career and Technology Center (Lebanon) and 335 were enrolled in programs at the
Tazewell County Career and Technology Center (Tazewell). These centers offer
training for high school students in areas such as auto repair, carpentry,
cosmetology, electronics, masonry, mine machinery repair, practical nursing, and
welding.
Tazewell County also offers post-secondary educational programs at two
two-year colleges, National Business College and Southwest Virginia Community
College, and at Bluefield College, a four-year institution. National Business College,
located in Bluefi
, Virginia, offers seven associate degree programs and five
one-year diplomas in a variety of business courses. In Wardell, approximately
2,630 students (fall 2013-2014 enrollment) study at Southwest Virginia Community
College (SVCC) towards two-year associate degrees which include accounting, data
processing, business administration, engineering, nursing, mining and many other
areas. SVCC also offers one-year programs leading towards certificates in areas
which include banking, drafting, law enforcement, machine tool operations, mine
machinery maintenance, respiratory care and welding.
Bluefield College is a private, Baptist- affiliated liberal arts college offering
four-year programs leading to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in a
wide variety of disciplines, and two-year Associate of Arts, Associate of Science and
Associate of General Studies degree programs. In addition, pre-professional
programs to prepare students for graduate level study in law, medicine and
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 49
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 50
dentistry are offered. In total, twenty-one majors are offered. While the majority of
the College's 500 traditional students are recent high school graduates, Bluefield's
special adult admissions program is designed to attract adults who are at least 24
years old and have two years work experience. Adults who qualify for this program
are able to attend classes during the evening hours to accommodate their work
schedules and family lives.
The Town of Grundy in Buchanan County is the location of the Appalachian
School of Law, established in 1996 and currently having 370 students. The school,
which has been granted provisional accreditation by the American Bar Association,
specializes in alternative dispute resolution. Oakwood in Buchanan County is home
to the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, the first program of the University of
Appalachia.
Utilities
Electricity in Buchanan and Tazewell Counties is provided by the
Appalachian Power Company. Dickenson and Russell Counties are serviced by both
the Appalachian Power Company and Old Dominion Power Company. Electricity
rates are comparatively low in the District.
Natural gas is currently not available to households in most areas in the
District, with the exception of Bluefield in Tazewell County which is served by
Commonwealth Natural Gas Company, Clintwood in Dickenson County which is
served by Appalachian Natural Gas Distribution Company and Castlewood and
Lebanon in Russell County served by Virginia Gas. Bottled gas is available in the
four counties through nearby suppliers.
dentistry are offered. In total, twenty-one majors are offered. While the majority of
the College's 500 traditional students are recent high school graduates, Bluefield's
special adult admissions program
designed to attract adults who are at least 24
years old and have two years work experience. Adults who qualify for this program
are able to attend classes during the evening hours to accommodate their work
schedules and family lives.
The Town of Grundy in Buchanan County is the location of the Appalachian
School of Law, established in 1996 and currently having 370 students. The school,
which has been granted provisional accreditation by the American Bar Association,
specializes in alternative dispute resolution. Oakwood in Buchanan County is home
to the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, the first program of the University of
Appalachia.
Electricity in Buchanan and Tazewell Counties is provided by the
Appalachian Power Company. Dickenson and Russell Counties are serviced by both
the Appalachian Power Company and Old Dominion Power Company. Electricity
rates are comparatively low in the District.
Natural gas is currently not available to households in most areas in the
District, with the exception of Bluefield in Tazewell County which is served by
Commonwealth Natural Gas Company, Clintwood in Dickenson County which is
served by Appalachian Natural Gas bution Company and Castlewood and
Lebanon in Russell County served by Virginia Gas. Bottled gas is available in the
four counties through nearby suppliers.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 50
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 51
Verizon provides telephone services in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and
Tazewell Counties. Fiber optics is now available in most areas for business and
industry.
Transportation
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is located in Southwest Virginia
near Virginia's borders with the States of West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.
As shown in Table 22, the locations of the District's four counties place them within
convenient reach of the region's major cities.
The network of highways running through the four counties includes three
U. S. numbered highways and eleven state highways. U. S. Route 460 runs through
the center of Buchanan and Tazewell Counties, linking Grundy (Buchanan),
Richlands, Tazewell and Bluefield (all three in Tazewell County) to Blacksburg and
Roanoke, Virginia to the east, and to Pikeville, Kentucky to the west. U. S. Alternate
Route 58 cuts diagonally northwest-southeast through Russell County, heading
southeast towards Abingdon, Virginia (and access to Interstate 81), and northwest
towards Norton, Virginia (and access to U.S. Rt. 23). U.S. Route 19 runs east to
west through the center of Russell County and Tazewell County, linking to
Interstate-81 at Abingdon and Interstate-77 at Bluefield, West Virginia. Interstate
81 runs close to the southern county borders of Russell and Tazewell Counties
(access to I-81 from either Lebanon or the Town of Tazewell is less than 30 miles)
Verizon provides telephone services in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and
Tazewell Counties. Fiber optics is now available in most areas for business and
industry.
Transportation
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is located in Southwest Virginia
near Virginia's borders with the States of West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.
As shown in Table 22, the locations of the District's four counties place them within
convenient reach of the region's major c
The network of highways running through the four counties includes three
U.S. numbered highways and eleven state highways. U. S. Route 460 runs through
the center of Buchanan and Tazewell Counties, linking Grundy (Buchanan),
Richlands, Tazewell and Bluefield (all three in Tazewell County) to Blacksburg and
Roanoke, Virginia to the east, and to Pikeville, Kentucky to the west. U. S. Alternate
Route 58 cuts diagonally northwest-southeast through Russell County, heading
southeast towards Abingdon, Virginia (and access to Interstate 81), and northwest
towards Norton, inia (and access to U.S. Rt. 23). U.S. Route 19 runs east to
west through the center of Russell County and Tazewell County, linking to
Interstate-81 at Abingdon and Interstate-77 at Bluefield, West Virginia. Interstate
81 runs close to the southern county borders of Russell and Tazewell Counties
(access to I-81 from either Lebanon or the Town of Tazewell is less than 30 miles)
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 51
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 52
Table 22
Distance From County Seat to Nearby Metropolitan Areas
Grundy Clintwood Lebanon Tazewell
Buchanan County Dickenson County Russel County Tazewell County
Bristol, VA/TN 89 68 39 91
Blacksburg, VA 147 175 140 85
Knoxville, TN 250 154 152 195
Roanoke, VA 180 200 160 126
Richmond, VA 370 385 350 303
Source: Virginia Department of
Transportation
and links the District to the metropolitan areas of Knoxville,Tennessee and
Roanoke, Virginia. From Lebanon, Knoxville is approximately a two and one-half
hour drive along a well-developed highway system. Interstate 77, which runs north
to south near Tazewell County's eastern border, also provides access for the
Cumberland Plateau area to various points in the eastern United States from
Cleveland, Ohio to Columbia, South Carolina. These two interstate highways, along
with the U. S. highways discussed above and a network of state highways within the
region, link the four counties to major markets within Virginia, Tennessee,
Kentucky and West Virginia. The recent locations of two major IT firms, CGI and
Northrup Grumman in Russell County, illustrate the region's potential for
recruiting new businesses based on its advantageous Mid-Atlantic location.
The Cumberland Plateau area coal mines are served by railroad lines
operated by CSX Transportation and the Norfolk Southern Railroad. CSX
Transportation maintains rail lines running mainly north to south, transporting
coal from Dickenson County to utility customers in the Carolinas to the south, and
Table 22
Distance From County Seat to Nearby Metropolitan Areas
Grundy Clintwood Lebanon Tazewell
Buchanan County | Dickenson County | Russel County | Tazewell County
Bristol, VA/TN 89 68 39 91
Blacksburg, VA 147 175 140 85
Knoxville, TN 250 154 152 195
Roanoke, VA 180 200 160 126
Richmond, VA 370 385 350 303
Source: Virginia Department of.
Transportation
and links the District to the metropolitan areas of Knoxville,Tennessee and
Roanoke, Virginia. From Lebanon, Knoxville is approximately a two and one-half
hour drive along a well-developed highway system. Interstate 77, which runs north
to south near Tazewell County's eastern border, also provides access for the
Cumberland Plateau area to various points in the eastern United States from
Cleveland, Ohio to Columbia, South Carolina. These two interstate highways, along
with the U. S. highways discussed above and a network of state highways within the
region, link the four counties to major markets within Virginia, Tennessee,
Kentucky and West Virginia. The recent locations of two major IT firms, CGI and
Northrup Grumman in Russell County, illustrate the region's potenti
for
recruiting new businesses based on its advantageous Mid-Atlantic location.
The Cumberland Plateau area coal mines are served by railroad lines
operated by CSX Transportation and the Norfolk Southern Railroad. CSX
‘Transportation maintains rail lines running mainly north to south, transporting
coal from Dickenson County to utility customers in the Carolinas to the south, and
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 52
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 53
to customers in Kentucky to the north. Buchanan, Russell and Tazewell Counties
are serviced by the Norfolk Southern Railroad which has an east-west orientation.
Much of the coal is taken through Bluefield, Virginia to the port at Hampton Roads,
Virginia, from which it can be shipped to foreign customers.
Major interstate truck lines providing service for the Cumberland Plateau
Counties include Consolidated Freight, Mason-Dixon Lines, Overnite
Transportation, and Smith Transfer. Many smaller companies provide trucking
services within the four-county region.
Residents of the Cumberland Plateau area have access to
Greyhound-Trailways bus service through bus stops in Bluefiled, Marion, and
Wytheville.
The Cumberland Plateau area is serviced by the Tri-Cities Airport, Roanoke
Regional Airport, Tazewell County Airport, Grundy Municipal Airport and the
Mercer County Airport (located between Princeton and Bluefield, West Virginia).
A general aviation airport with a 4,200-foot runway and instrument landing
capability is now open at the Tazewell County Airport.
Climate and Amenities
1. Climate
The climate in the Cumberland Plateau area is moderate for an
area that enjoys four distinct seasons. The average temperature in July is a
pleasant 74 degrees Fahrenheit, and winters are not too severe, with average
temperatures of about 36 degrees Fahrenheit in January. The average
annual precipitation is approximately 47 inches.
to customers in Kentucky to the north. Buchanan, Russell and Tazewell Counties
are serviced by the Norfolk Southern Railroad which has an east-west orientation.
Much of the coal is taken through Bluefield, Virgi
ia to the port at Hampton Roads,
Virginia, from which it can be shipped to foreign customers.
Major interstate truck lines providing service for the Cumberland Plateau
Counties include Consolidated Freight, Mason-Dixon Lines, Overnite
Transportation, and Smith Transfer. Many smaller companies provide trucking
services within the four-county region.
Residents of the Cumberland Plateau area have access. to
Greyhound-Trailways bus service through bus stops in Bluefiled, Marion, and
Wytheville.
The Cumberland Plateau area is serviced by the Tri-Cities Airport, Roanoke
Regional Airport, Tazewell County Airport, Grundy Municipal Airport and the
Mercer County Airport (located between Princeton and Bluefield, West Virginia).
A general aviation airport with a 4,200-foot runway and instrument landing
capability is now open at the Tazewell County Airport.
Climate and Amenities
1, Climate
The climate in the Cumberland Plateau area is moderate for an
area that enjoys four distinct seasons. The average temperature in July is a
pleasant 74 degrees Fahrenheit, and winters are not too severe, with average
temperatures of about 36 degrees Fahrenheit in January. The average
annual precipitation is approximately 47 inches.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 53
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 54
2. Recreational and Tourist Attractions
There is an amazing number of outdoor recreation and cultural
heritage tourism assets throughout the four county-region.
These assets are being aggressively marketed through several regional
initiatives, the most prominent being the Southwest Virginia Cultural
Heritage Foundation and the Friends of Southwest Virginia. As the
umbrella organization for the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music
Trail, ‘Round the Mountain’: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network, and
Appalachian Spring: Southwest Virginia’s Outdoor Recreation Initiative, the
Foundation promotes the 19 counties and 4 cities of Southwest Virginia to
national and international tourists. This effort has brought the region to
near the top of Virginia’s tourism destinations.
A brand new initiative, The Spearhead Trails, is focused on the
development of a multi-trail system in Virginia’s Coalfield counties. Of
special importance is the development of an ATV trail system similar to the
Hatfield-McCoy Trail in West Virginia. This trail has prompted a increase in
tourism and economic development in its service area.
All of the District’s counties have easy access to Breaks Interstate
Park which is located on the Virginia-Kentucky border with most of the
Park's 4,500 acres falling within Dickenson County. The Park boasts the
largest canyon east of the Mississippi, carved out by the Russell Fork River,
and nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the South." The Park's numerous
recreational facilities include picnic tables and shelters, hiking trails,
2. Recreational and Tourist Attractions
There is an amazing number of outdoor recreation and cultural
heritage tourism assets throughout the four county-region.
These assets are being aggres
ely marketed through several regional
initiatives, the most prominent being the Southwest Virginia Cultural
Heritage Foundation and the Friends of Southwest Virginia. As the
umbrella organization for the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music
Trail, ‘Round the Mountain’: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network, and
Appalachian Spring: Southwest Virginia’s Outdoor Recreation Initiative, the
Foundation promotes the 19 counties and 4 cities of Southwest Virginia to
national and international tourists. This effort has brought the region to
near the top of Virginia’s tourism destinations.
A brand new initiative, The Spearhead Trails, is focused on the
development of a multi-trail system in Virginia’s Coalfield counties. Of
special importance is the development of an ATV trail system similar to the
Hatfield-MeCoy Trail in West Virginia. This trail has prompted a increase in
tourism and economic development in its service area.
All of the District’s counties have easy access to Breaks Interstate
Park which is located on the Virginia-Kentucky border with most of the
Park's 4,500 acres falling within Dickenson County. The Park boasts the
largest canyon east of the Mississippi, carved out by the Russell Fork River,
and nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the South." The Park's numerous
recreational facilities include picnic tables and shelters, hiking trails,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 54
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 55
campsites, cottages and a motor lodge, swimming pools, a new water park,
scenic overlooks, an amphitheater, and a large conference center with dining
rooms, a restaurant and gift shop. In addition, the Park has paddleboats,
stables, playground facilities, as well as a 12-acre lake well stocked for
fishing.
Another significant outdoor recreation site in Dickenson County is the
John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir which is located five miles from
Haysi on the Pound River, a tributary of the Russell Fork River. Visitors to
the Reservoir enjoy opportunities to participate in outdoor activities such as
picnicking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, boating and water skiing.
The lake is a well-known small-mouth bass fishing venue. White water
rafting and kayaking are additional activities offered on a seasonal basis on
the Russell Fork River below the Flannagan Dam. During October of each
year, whitewater enthusiasts from all over the world come to Dickenson
County to enjoy one of the best whitewater experiences in North America.
Estimates of the regional economic impact of a 21-day rafting season on the
Gauley River in West Virginia--$16.8 million in total direct and indirect
revenues-- provide strong incentive for pursuing the development of rafting
and related tourist industries in the area around the Flannagan Dam.
Efforts are being made to increase the number of releases from the Dam to
expand the length of the whitewater season.
The four counties share access to Jefferson National Forest, a 690,000
acre forest located in Southwest Virginia. Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell
campsites, cottages and a motor lodge, swimming pools, a new water park,
scenic overlooks, an amphitheater, and a large conference center with dining
rooms, a restaurant and gift shop. In addition, the Park has paddleboats,
stables, playground facilities, as well as a 12-acre lake well stocked for
fishing.
Another significant outdoor recreation site in Dickenson County is the
John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir which is located five miles from
Haysi on the Pound River, a tributary of the Russell Fork River. Visitors to
the Reservoir enjoy opportunities to participate in outdoor activities such as
picnicking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, boating and water skiing.
The lake is a well-known small-mouth bass fishing venue. White water
rafting and kayaking are additional activities offered on a seasonal basis on
the Russell Fork River below the Flannagan Dam. During October of each
year, whitewater enthusiasts from all over the world come to Dickenson
County to enjoy one of the best whitewater experiences in North America.
Estimates of the regional economic impact of a 21-day rafting season on the
Gauley River in West Virginia—$16.8 million in total direct and indirect
revenues
provide strong incentive for pursuing the development of rafting
and related tourist industries in the area around the Flannagan Dam.
Efforts are being made to increase the number of releases from the Dam to
expand the length of the whitewater season.
The four counties share access to Jefferson National Forest, a 690,000
acre forest located in Southwest Virginia. Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 55
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 56
Counties claim small portions of this forest's huge acreage and its many
recreational attractions. Jefferson National Forest has received media
attention for becoming the nation's first forest to actively promote tourism
rather than simply waiting for people to ask for information. This bodes well
for the District and Southwest Virginia as many world-class outdoor
recreation assets are located in the region. In the District, in addition to the
aforementioned Breaks Park, The Channels State Forest, Brumley Mountain
Trail, Laurel Bed Lake, the Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area,
the Appalachian Trail and Burkes Garden are all located along Clinch
Mountain on the District’s southern border. In addition, many assets,
including the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve, are associated with the Clinch
River, North America’s most biodiverse river.
The residents of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Counties
enjoy other local recreation facilities which include several country clubs
complete with 18-hole golf courses, skating rinks, indoor and outdoor movie
theaters, and numerous sports fields. Sports fans can attend home games of
Tazewell County's professional minor league baseball team, the Bluefield
Blue Jays, which plays at Bowen Field in Bluefield. A few miles away, near
the Town of Tazewell, is the Historic Crab Orchard Museum and Pioneer
Park, located on 110 acres of land designated as a pre-historic and historic
site by the Virginia Division of Historic Landmarks and the National
Register of Historic Places. The Museum presents the history of Tazewell
County and Southwest Virginia from five hundred and seventy million years
Counties claim small portions of this forest's huge acreage and its many
recreational attractions. Jefferson National Forest has received media
attention for becoming the nation's first forest to actively promote tourism
rather than simply waiting for people to ask for information. This bodes well
for the District and Southwest Virginia as many world-class outdoor
recreation assets are located in the region. In the District, in addition to the
aforementioned Breaks Park, The Channels State Forest, Brumley Mountain
Trail, Laurel Bed Lake, the Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area,
the Appalachian Trail and Burkes Garden are all located along Clinch
Mountain on the District’s southern border. In addition, many assets,
including the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve, are associated with the Clinch
River, North America’s most biodiverse river.
The residents of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Counties
enjoy other local recreation facilities which include several country clubs
complete with 18-hole golf courses, skating rinks, indoor and outdoor movie
theaters, and numerous sports fields. Sports fans can attend home games of
Tazewell County's professional minor league baseball team, the Bluefield
Blue Jays, which plays at Bowen Field in Bluefield. A few miles away, near
the Town of Tazewell, is the Historic Crab Orchard Museum and Pioneer
Park, located on 110 acres of land designated as a pre-historic and historic
site by the Virginia Division of Historic Landmarks and the National
Register of Historic Places. The Museum presents the history of Tazewell
County and Southwest Virginia from five hundred and seventy million years
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 56
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 57
ago to the present time. Other sites of historic interest in the target area
include: the Town of Pocahontas, which has been placed on the Virginia
Register and the National Register as a historic preservation zone; the Old
Russell County Courthouse, designated as a Virginia historic landmark and
placed on the State Register; Honaker Historic Downtown District, and the
Cedar Bluff Roller Mills, placed on both the State and National Registers for
historic places. And the recently completed Ralph Stanley Museum and
Traditional Mountain Music Center in Clintwood is one of the major venues
on “The Crooked Road” Music Trail that is attracting thousands of cultural
heritage tourists to the region. Numerous affiliated venues of the Crooked
Road are located throughout the District, and all four counties are on
Artisan Trails sponsored by ‘Round the Mountain’.
3. Religious Facilities
There are numerous religious congregations in the Cumberland
Plateau area, where people take pride in their strong religious values and
work ethic. These congregations represent the full spectrum of
denominations and vary greatly in size. Denominations with churches in the
four county region include Assembly of God; Baptist; Bible; Christian;
Church of Christ; Church of God; Disciples of Christ; Episcopal; Full
Gospel; Independent; Methodist; Nondenominational; Pentecostal;
Presbyterian; Roman Catholic; Seventh-Day Adventist; and United
Methodist. A Jewish synagogue in Bluefield, West Virginia is easily accessible
to residents in the District.
ago to the present time. Other sites of historic interest in the target area
include: the Town of Pocahontas, which has been placed on the Virginia
Register and the National Register as a historic preservation zone; the Old
Russell County Courthouse, designated as a Virginia historic landmark and
placed on the State Register; Honaker Historic Downtown District, and the
Cedar Bluff Roller Mills, placed on both the State and National Registers for
historic places. And the recently completed Ralph Stanley Museum and
Traditional Mountain Music Center in Clintwood is one of the major venues
on “The Crooked Road” Music Trail that is attracting thousands of cultural
heritage tourists to the region. Numerous affiliated venues of the Crooked
Road are located throughout the District, and all four counties are on
Artisan Trails sponsored by ‘Round the Mountain’.
There are numerous religious congregations in the Cumberland
Plateau area, where people take pride in their strong religious values and
work ethic. These congregations represent the full spectrum of
denominations and vary greatly in size. Denominations with churches in the
four county region include Assembly of God; Baptist; Bible; Christian;
Church of Christ; Church of God; Disciples of Christ; Episcopal; Full
Gospel; Independent; Methodist; Nondenominational; Pentecostal;
Presbyte
n; Roman Catholi
; Seventh-Day Adventist; and United
M
thodist. A Jewish synagogue in Bluefield, West
to residents in the District.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 57
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 58
4. Health Care
Each of the four counties in the Cumberland Plateau area has at least
one hospital or medical center to serve its residents. In Buchanan County, a
100-bed facility of Buchanan General Hospital is located on Slate Creek. The
Dickenson County Medical Center (25 beds) provides services to local
residents at its facility in Clintwood. The people of Russell County are
served by the 78-bed Russell County Medical Center, located in Lebanon.
Tazewell County boasts two hospitals, the Humana Hospital in Richlands
(200 beds) and the Tazewell Community Hospital in the town of Tazewell (56
beds). The bed rate, which is the number of hospital beds per 100,000
residents, for each of the counties in 2012, the most recent date for which this
information is available, was: 394.9 in Buchanan County, 245.6 in Russell
County and 516.7 in Tazewell County. At that point, Dickenson County did
not have a hospital. These figures are all lower, in most cases very much
lower, than the State figure of 584.3 for that same year.
Other medical facilities providing services to residents of the four
counties include the Haysi Medical Clinic, the Hurley Medical Clinic, the
Clearview Psychiatric Center, which is a medical division of the Russell
County Medical Center providing inpatient psychiatric treatment, along with
the following hospitals which are located in nearby areas: Bristol Regional
Medical Center (Bristol, TN/VA), Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon,
VA), Princeton Community Hospital (Princeton, WV), Roanoke Valley
Psychiatric Center (Salem, VA), Saint Albans Psychiatric Hospital (Radford,
4. Health Care
Each of the four counties in the Cumberland Plateau area has at least
one hospital or medical center to serve its residents. In Buchanan County, a
100-bed faci
'y of Buchanan General Hospital is located on Slate Creek. The
Dickenson County Medical Center (25 beds) provides services to local
residents at its facil
y in Clintwood. The people of Russell County are
served by the 78-bed Russell County Medical Center, located in Lebanon.
Tazewell County boasts two hospitals, the Humana Hospital in Richlands
(200 beds) and the Tazewell Community Hospital in the town of Tazewell (56
beds). The bed rate, which is the number of hospital beds per 100,000
residents, for each of the counties in 2012, the most recent date for which this
information is avai
ble, was: 394.9 in Buchanan County, 245.6 in Russell
County and 516.7 in Tazewell County. At that point, Dickenson County did
not have a hospital. These figures are all lower, in most cases very much
lower, than the State figure of 584.3 for that same year.
Other medical fac
s providing services to residents of the four
counties include the Haysi Medical Clinic, the Hurley Medical Clinic, the
Clearview Psychiatrie Center, which is a medical division of the Russell
County Medical Center providing inpatient psychiatric treatment, along with
the following hospitals which are located in nearby areas: Bristol Regional
Medical Center (Bristol, TN/VA), Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon,
VA), Princeton Community Hospital (Princeton, WV), Roanoke Valley
Psychiatric Center (Salem, VA), Saint Albans Psychiatric Hospital (Radford,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 58
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 59
VA) and Southern Hills Regional Rehabilitation Hospital (Princeton, WV).
5. Communications
Communications media that serve the Cumberland Plateau area are
fairly comprehensive and include AM and FM radio stations (one of each in
Buchanan County, four AM stations and three FM stations in Tazewell
County, two AM and one FM station in Russell County and one AM and one
FM station in Dickenson County) and several daily and weekly newspapers.
Daily newspapers which serve the four counties and surrounding areas are:
the Bluefield Daily Telegraph (based in Bluefield, West Virginia), Bristol
Herald Courier, and Roanoke Times. Local weekly newspapers include the
Virginia Mountaineer (Buchanan), Dickenson Star (Dickenson), Lebanon
News (Russell), Tazewell County Free Press (Richlands), Clinch Valley News
(Tazewell) and Richlands News Press (Richlands).
6. Industrial Building and Site Utilization Analysis
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District has industrial parks
located in Russell, Tazewell, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties. The
Cumberland Plateau Regional Industrial Park has one tenant, AT&T, Inc.,
which has a 50,000 square-feet building on a 10-acre lot, with a workforce of
approximately 400 people.
In order to recruit more tenants into the Park, the target area is
prepared to use various incentives, including donation of land and the
development of special financing programs. Twenty nine acres of land
VA) and Southern Hills Regional Rehabilitation Hospital (Princeton, WV).
5. Communications
Communications media that serve the Cumberland Plateau area are
fairly comprehensive and include AM and FM radio stations (one of each in
Buchanan County, four AM stations and three FM stations in Tazewell
County, two AM and one FM station in Russell County and one AM and one
FM station in Dickenson County) and several daily and weekly newspapers.
newspapers which serve the four counties and surrounding areas are:
the Bluefield Daily Telegraph (based in Bluefield, West Virginia), Bristol
Herald Courier, and Roanoke Times. Local weekly newspapers include the
Virginia Mountaineer (Buchanan), Dickenson Star (Dickenson), Lebanon
News (Russell), Tazewell County Free Press (Richlands), Clinch Valley News
(Tazewell) and Richlands News Press (Richlands).
6. Industrial Building and Site Utilization Analysis
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District has industrial parks
located in Russell, Tazewell, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties. The
Cumberland Plateau Regional Industrial Park has one tenant, AT&T, Inc.,
which has a 50,000 square-feet building on a 10-acre lot, with a workforce of
approximately 400 people.
In order to recruit more tenants into the Park, the target area is
prepared to use various incentives, including donation of land and the
development of special financing programs. Twenty nine acres of land
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 59
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 60
suitable for development and two industrial buildings are available in the
Regional Industrial Park, which is located on the Lebanon By-pass. The
Park is served by a six-inch water main, an eight-inch sewer line and
electricity supplied by the Appalachian Power Company. High-speed
broadband is available from CPC Optinet.
In Buchanan County, Southern Gap Industrial Park offers 1100 acres
for business and industry. The Buchanan Public Service Authority serves
this park with an eleven-inch waterline and a ten-inch sewer line. Three
phase power and high speed broadband are also available in the park.
In Tazewell County, Wardell Industrial Park offers 40 acres of
available land adjacent to Southwest Virginia Community College, 4.75 miles
west of Claypool Hill on U. S. Route 19. Ceramic Technologies Incorporated,
Pepsi-Cola and Jen-Mar are located in the Park. The Tazewell County
Public Service Authority serves the site with a six-inch water line (total
capacity of 500,000 gallons per day) on the property, and an eight-inch sewer
line (350,000 gallons per day capacity) adjacent to the property. Verizon,
CPC Optinet and Appalachian Power Company also provide utilities to the
site.
The Bluestone Business and Technology Park, located on U.S. Route
19/460, west of Bluefield, Virginia, has 600+ acres of land available for mixed
use development. In addition to the standard six-inch water main and
eight-inch sewer line serving the site, natural gas is available through a
four-inch gas line maintained by Commonwealth Gas Services. Phase I of the
suitable for development and two industrial buildings are available in the
Regional Industrial Park, which is located on the Lebanon By-pass. The
Park is served by a si
inch water main, an eight-inch sewer line and
electricity supplied by the Appalachian Power Company. High-speed
broadband is available from CPC Optinet.
In Buchanan County, Southern Gap Industrial Park offers 1100 acres
for business and industry. The Buchanan Public Service Authority serves
this park with an eleven-inch waterline and a ten-inch sewer line. Three
phase power and high speed broadband are also avail
ble in the park.
In Tazewell County, Wardell Industrial Park offers 40 acres of
available land adjacent to Southwest Virginia Community College, 4.75 miles
west of Claypool Hill on U. S. Route 19. Ceramic Technologies Incorporated,
Pepsi-Cola and Jen-Mar are located in the Park. The Tazewell County
Public Service Authority serves the site with a si
inch water line (total
capacity of 500,000 gallons per day) on the property, and an eight-inch sewer
line (350,000 gallons per day cap:
) adjacent to the property. Verizon,
CPC Optinet and Appalachian Power Company also provide utilities to the
site.
The Bluestone Business and Technology Park, located on U.S. Route
19/460, west of Bluefield, Virginia, has 600+ acres of land available for mixed
use development. In addition to the standard six-inch water main and
eight-inch sewer line serving the site, natural gas is available through a
four-inch gas line maintained by Commonwealth Gas Services. Phase I of the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 60
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 61
Bluestone Business and Technology Park is nearing completion. One site is
now reserved for the proposed new dental school that is being developed by
Tazewell County and Bluefield College. This project fits in well with the
county’s plan to focus on advanced manufacturing, high quality research and
technology businesses in the Park.
Three tenants already enjoy the benefits of Tazewell Industrial Park's
convenient location right outside the town limits of Tazewell. The Park's
location places its tenants within 22 miles of Interstate 77, and 20 miles of the
Richlands Airport. Twenty-two acres of land are still available for
development in the 60-acre Park. The park is served by three-phase
electrical power, a six-inch water line and an eight-inch sewer line.
Bluestone Business and Technology Park is nearing completion. One site is
now reserved for the proposed new dental school that is being developed by
Tazewell County and Bluefield College. This project fits in well with the
county’s plan to focus on advanced manufacturing, high quality research and
technology businesses in the Park.
Three tenants already enjoy the benefits of Tazewell Industrial Park's
convenient location right outside the town limits of Tazewell. The Park's
location places its tenants within 22 miles of Interstate 77, and 20 miles of the
Richlands
irport. Twenty-two acres of land are still available for
development in the 60-acre Park. The park is served by three-phase
electrical power, a six-inch water line and an eight-inch sewer line.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 61
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 62
2. ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES
A. State of the Regional Economy
a. Strengths and Weaknesses/Assets and Liabilities
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission is already noted for
the willingness of its local governments to work together to improve their quality of
life. The Cumberland Plateau, is the second oldest rural regional economic
development agency in the state. Local government support of the PDC and
regionalism is strong and entrenched. The strengths of the District are as follows:
• The quality of life, strong family values, friendly community
environment, low crime rate, safe public schools, low cost of
housing, and recreational and cultural opportunities in the
Region are attractive to workers and employers.
• The natural beauty of this mountainous area, epitomized in the
Breaks Interstate Park, Burkes Garden, The Cove, The
Channels Natural Area Preserve, the Pinnacle Natural Area
Preserve, and the Jefferson National Forest is breathtaking.
• Regional cooperation is strong between the Cumberland
Plateau Planning District Commission and its local
governments and economic development organizations, as
evidenced by the creation of the Cumberland Plateau Regional
Waste Management Authority, the District RLF Program, and
the District Water and Sewer Roundtable. Broader
cooperative efforts with LENOWISCO PDC, involved the
creation of the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
2. ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES
A. State of the Regional Economy
a. Strengths and Weaknesses/Assets and Liabil
ies
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission is already noted for
the willingness of its local governments to work together to improve their quality of
life. The Cumberland Plateau, is the second oldest rural regional economic
development agency in the state. Local government support of the PDC and
regionalism is strong and entrenched. The strengths of the District are as follows:
The quality of life, strong family values, friendly community
environment, low crime rate, safe public schools, low cost of
housing, and recreational and cultural opportunities in the
Region are attractive to workers and employers.
The natural beauty of this mountainous area, epitomized in the
Breaks Interstate Park, Burkes Garden, The Cove, The
Channels Natural Area Preserve, the Pinnacle Natural Arca
Preserve, and the Jefferson National Forest is breathtaking,
Regional cooperation is strong between the Cumberland
Plateau Planning District Commission and its local
governments and economic development organizations, as
evidenced by the creation of the Cumberland Plateau Regional
Waste Management Authority, the District RLF Program, and
the District Water and Sewer Roundtable. Broader
cooperative efforts with LENOWISCO PDC, involved the
creation of the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 62
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 63
Authority, the industrial marketing entity of PDC’s One and
Two, the Heart of Appalachia Regional Tourism Authority, the
Area One Workforce Investment Program, the Coalfield
Water Development Fund, the Virginia Coalfield Coalition,
and the Coalfields Water and Sewer initiatives. Even broader
regional cooperation, as evidenced by the Cumberland
Plateau’s participation in and leadership of The Crooked
Road, ‘Round the Mountain’, Appalachian Spring and
Heartwood cultural heritage initiatives, is strong in Southwest
Virginia. This 19-county effort involves five planning district
Commissions and is supported by several state and federal
agencies. The District’s leaders recognized early on that strong
cooperation across political boundaries was the only way to
effectively address our many challenges.
• The Region’s workforce has a proven record of high
productivity, low turnover rates, and low absentee rates.
• Community colleges, vocational training schools and the
regional Workforce Investment Program provide extensive
training opportunities.
• The Region has a growing higher education emphasis as
illustrated by the recent establishment of the Appalachian
School of Law and the University of Appalachia College of
Pharmacy in Buchanan County, as well as planning for a new
college of Opthamology in Buchanan County.
Authority, the industrial marketing entity of PDC’s One and
Two, the Heart of Appalachia Regional
urism Authority, the
Area One Workforce Investment Program, the Coalfield
Water Development Fund, the Virginia Coalfield Co:
ion,
and the Coalfields Water and Sewer ini
ives. Even broader
regional cooperation, as evidenced by the Cumberland
Plateau’s participation in and leadership of The Crooked
Road, ‘Round the Mountain’, Appalachian Spring and
Heartwood cultural heritage initiatives, is strong in Southwest
Virginia. This 19-county effort involves five planning district
Commissions and is supported by several state and federal
agencies. The District’s leaders recognized early on that strong
cooperation across political boundaries was the only way to
effectively address our many challenges.
* The Region’s workforce has a proven record of high
productivity, low turnover rates, and low absentee rates.
© Community colleges, vocational training schools and the
regional Workforce Investment Program provide extensive
training opportunities.
* The Region has a growing higher education emphasis as
illustrated by the recent establishment of the Appalachian
School of Law and the University of Appalachia College of
Pharmacy in Buchanan County, as well as planning for a new
college of Opthamology in Buchanan County,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 63
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 64
• Exceptional local incentive programs are provided to assist
new and expanding industry.
• Power rates are among the lowest in the nation.
• Sustainable development initiatives, which look to creating
new jobs in forest products, agriculture, and nature tourism
while safeguarding the beauty and environment of the region,
are in place.
• Most of the district has an excellent telecommunication
infrastructure, with fiber optics and digital switching and
wireless options.
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission, despite many
strengths, still has to deal with some issues that pose significant impediments and
barriers to the region’s overall economic competitiveness. Most of these weaknesses
are related to the reality that the entire region is mountainous, making the
acquisition and development of large industrial sites, infrastructure, housing,
community facilities, and highways extremely costly. Many of these issues have
been identified through various strategic planning exercises that have taken place
in the region over the years.. The District staff revisited these issues and identified
several significant liabilities to the district’s overall economic recovery. They are as
follows:
led to assist
© Exceptional local incentive programs are provi
new and expanding industry.
* Power rates are among the lowest in the nation.
© Sustainable development initiatives, which look to creating
new jobs in forest products, agriculture, and nature tourism
while safeguarding the beauty and environment of the region,
are in place.
* Most of the district has an excellent telecommunication
infrastructure, with fiber optics and digital switching and
wireless options.
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission, despite many
strengths, still has to deal with some issues that pose significant impediments and
barriers to the region’s overall economic competitiveness. Most of these weaknesses
are related to the reality that the entire region is mountainous, making the
acquisition and development of large industrial sites, infrastructure, housing,
community facilities, and highways extremely costly. Many of these issues have
been identified through various strategic planning exercises that have taken place
in the region over the years.. The District staff revisited these issues and identified
several significant liabilities to the district’s overall economic recovery. They are as
follows:
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 64
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 65
• Lack of adequate water and sewer, especially sewer, in some
areas with development potential.
• There are only one or two large (100-200) acre) industrial sites
in the Region that so many industries are now requiring.
• There is a lack of capital from local lending institutions, and of
affordable space for complimentary technical support to meet
the needs of local entrepreneurs.
• The region’s labor force generally has lower levels of
educational attainment because there is a lack of job
opportunities for high school and college graduates. This has
led to outmigration of many of our most educated citizens.
• No Interstate Highway passes through the district. No four-
lane highway passes through Dickenson County.
• There is a lack of quality market-rate housing.
• The region lacks a significant growth center or centers.
While these are considered the most significant impediments and liabilities to
economic recovery, some of these are directly related to our assets and opportunities
listed previously. For instance, the lack of an interstate highway and the sometimes
chaotic growth it brings may be a large reason that our region’s natural beauty is
somewhat unspoiled. Other liabilities may have another side to the coin as well.
The region’s labor force, for example, does have lower educational attainment
levels, largely because many older persons quit school early to go to work in the coal
mines because the salaries and benefits were so good. Now, many are unemployed
as a result of the boom and bust nature of the coal industry. But as new industries
* Lack of adequate water and sewer, especially sewer, in some
areas with development potential.
+ There are only one or two large (100-200) acre) industrial sites
in the Region that so many industries are now requiring.
© There is a lack of capital from local lending institutions, and of
affordable space for compli
entary technical support to meet
the needs of local entrepreneurs.
© The region’s labor force generally has lower levels of
educational attainment because there is a lack of job
opportunities for high school and college graduates. This has
led to outmigration of many of our most educated citizens.
© No Interstate Highway passes through the district. No four-
lane highway passes through Dickenson County.
© There is a lack of quality market-rate housing.
© The region lacks a significant growth center or centers.
While these are considered the most significant impediments and liabilities to
economic recovery, some of these are directly related to our assets and opportunities
listed previously. For instance, the lack of an interstate highway and the sometimes
chaotic growth it brings may be a large reason that our region’s natural beauty is
somewhat unspoiled. Other liabilities may have another side to the coin as well.
The region’s labor force, for example, does have lower educational attainment
levels, largely because many older persons quit school early to go to work in the coal
mines because the salaries and benefits were so good. Now, many are unemployed
as a result of the boom and bust nature of the coal industry. But as new industries
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 65
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 66
come in, especially manufacturing, they will find that many of these dislocated
miners who worked in a highly mechanized industry have a multitude of skills that
make them ideal employees. The district will look to redefine some of these
perceptions and make positives where negatives once resided.
b. Growth Clusters
A significant proportion of growth in the planning district is concentrated in
services and telecommunications. This trend of job growth in sectors other than
mining helps in achieving the district’s primary goals of diversification.
In 1998, the district embarked upon a journey to transform itself from a
resource-based economy to a knowledge-based one. Dramatic success in recruiting
knowledge-based companies to the district as a result of our robust broadband
network has helped to stabilize the economy and provide a platform for future
economic growth.
c. Progress During the Past Five Years
It is the premise of the staff that to regain our lost economic ground and
stability requires innovation and cooperation between business, educational, and
governmental agencies and the investment necessary to achieve and maintain a
strong and stable economy.
Since it was first organized in 1968, the Cumberland Plateau Planning
District and its member governments have pursued the goal of economic
diversification. This effort has been hampered by mountainous terrain, a one-
industry economy, lack of infrastructure, an inadequate transportation system,
outmigration, and a poorly educated labor force.
Many of the obstacles preventing economic development have been
come in, especially manufacturing, they will find that many of these dislocated
miners who worked in a highly mechanized industry have a multitude of skills that
make them ideal employees. The district will look to redefine some of these
perceptions and make positives where negatives once resided.
b. Growth Clusters
A significant proportion of growth in the planning district is concentrated in
services and telecommunications. This trend of job growth in sectors other than
mining helps in achieving the district’s primary goals of diversification.
In 1998, the district embarked upon a journey to transform itself from a
resource-based economy to a knowledge-based one. Dramatic success in recruiting
knowledge-based companies to the district as a result of our robust broadband
network has helped to stabilize the economy and provide a platform for future
economic growth.
c. Progress During the Past Five Years
the premise of the staff that to regain our lost economic ground and
stability requires innovation and cooperation between business, educational, and
governmental agencies and the investment necessary to achieve and maintain a
strong and stable economy.
ce it was first organized in 1968, the Cumberland Plateau Planning
District and its member governments have pursued the goal of economic
diversification. This effort has been hampered by mountainous terrain, a one-
industry economy, lack of infrastructure, an inadequate transportation system,
outmigration, and a poorly educated labor force.
Many of the obstacles preventing economic development have been
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 66
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 67
overcome. Some, such as mountainous terrain, will be difficult to ever overcome
and will continue to increase the cost of water and sewer systems, industrial sites
and highways.
Through EDA, ARC, RD, EPA, HUD, and other federal assistance programs,
the area’s communities have greatly improved and expanded local infrastructure,
transportation systems and community services. With federal assistance, new
hospitals, libraries, schools, water and sewer systems, public housing units, and
recreation and industrial parks have been built.
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission has reached many of
the goals established in earlier CEDS’s, but some have not been met. However, the
ground work has been laid to eventually achieve the goal of economic
diversification. No major changes in program direction are needed. The patience
and persistence shown by local governments is finally paying dividends. The
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority has set a goal of creating 1,000
new manufacturing jobs per year over the next ten years. If this goal is realized, the
Cumberland Plateau will be well on its way to achieving economic diversification
and stability.
B. External Trends and Forces
At present, the economy is in transition from coal mining and timber
operations to service and telecommunications. The success of the local economic
development community in recruiting telecommunication companies to the area,
such as Northrop Grumman, CGI, Sykes, Serco and AT & T, seems to be the
wave of the future.
The planning district’s rate of economic growth has not kept pace with the
overcome. Some, such as mountainous terrain, will be difficult to ever overcome
and will continue to increase the cost of water and sewer systems, industrial sites
and highways.
Through EDA, ARC, RD, EPA, HUD, and other federal assistance programs,
the area’s communities have greatly improved and expanded local infrastructure,
transportation systems and community services. With federal assistance, new
hospitals, libraries, schools, water and sewer systems, public housing units, and
recreation and industrial parks have been built.
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission has reached many of
the goals established in earlier CEDS’s, but some have not been met. However, the
ground work has been laid to eventually achieve the goal of economic
diversification. No major changes in program direction are needed. The patience
lends. The
and persistence shown by local governments is finally paying di
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority has set a goal of creating 1,000
new manufacturing jobs per year over the next ten years. If this goal is realized, the
Cumberland Plateau will be well on its way to achieving economic diversification
and stability.
B. _ External Trends and Forces
At present, the economy is in transition from coal mining and timber
operations to service and telecommunications. The success of the local economic
development community in recruiting telecommunication companies to the area,
such as Northrop Grumman, CGI, Sykes, Serco and AT & T, seems to be the
wave of the future.
The planning district’s rate of economic growth has not kept pace with the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 67
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 68
national and global economies for several decades. Arrested growth means we are
at a disadvantage in any competition and that, if this adverse trend continues, the
extent to which the area is losing ground will accelerate.
C. Partners For Economic Development
The PDC had rigorously sought out and engaged federal, state, regional,
local, and private partners and resources to assist in the diversification of the area
economy. With all four counties in the District leading or near the top of the state in
unemployment rates, particular attention had been given to improving the
infrastructure and enabling local governments to recruit new industry to create the
desperately needed new jobs to replace lost coal mining jobs.
After forty-five years of work, the district’s localities are seeing gains in
service and technology employment. Those gains have been largely due to the
commitment of resources and energy from numerous local and regional partners,
working not only in the economic development arena, but also in water, sewer,
housing, business development, jobs training and other community development
initiatives. These partners are as follows:
Local and Regional Partners
Local Governments
Local Planning Commissions
Local Industrial Development Authorities
Local Public Service Authorities
Local Chambers of Commerce
Cumberland Plateau Company
national and global economies for several decades. Arrested growth means we are
at a disadvantage in any competition and that, if this adverse trend continues, the
extent to which the area is losing ground will accelerate.
C. Partners For Economic Development
The PDC had rigorously sought out and engaged federal, state, regional,
local, and private partners and resources to assist in the diversification of the area
economy. With all four counties in the District leading or near the top of the state in
unemployment rates, particular attention had been given to improving the
infrastructure and enabli
2 local governments to recruit new industry to create the
desperately needed new jobs to replace lost coal mining jobs.
After forty-five years of work, the district's localities are seeing gains in
service and technology employment. Those gains have been largely due to the
commitment of resources and energy from numerous local and regional partners,
working not only in the economic development arena, but also in water, sewer,
housing, business development, jobs training and other community development
initiatives. These partners are as follows:
Local and Regional Partners
Local Governments
Local Planning Commissions
Local Industrial Development Authorities
Local Public Service Authorities
Local Chambers of Commerce
Cumberland Plateau Company
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 68
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 69
People, Inc. / Business Start
Southwestern Virginia Workforce Investment Board
Southwest Virginia Small Business Development Center
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority
Virginia Coalfield Coalition
Cumberland Plateau Regional Housing Authority
Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens
Southwest Virginia Community College
Appalachian School of Law
University of Appalachia College of Pharmacy
Coalfield Water Development Fund
LENOWISCO Planning District Commission
Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation
The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
Round The Mountain : Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network
Appalachian Spring : Outdoor Recreation Initiative
D. Resources for Economic Development
The CEDS Committee and EDD staff work with numerous agencies and
organizations, primarily at the private, state and federal level, who provide support
and funding for the work plan activities and projects. They are listed below.
Federal Resources
Economic Development Administration
Appalachian Regional Commission
People, Inc. / Business Start
Southwestern Virginia Workforce Investment Board
Southwest Virginia Small Business Development Center
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority
Virginia Coalfield Coalition
Cumberland Plateau Regional Housing Author’
Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens
Southwest Virginia Community College
Appalachian School of Law
iversity of Appalachia College of Pharmacy
Coalfield Water Development Fund
LENOWISCO Planning District Commission
Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation
The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
Round The Mountain : Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network
Appalachian Spring : Outdoor Recreation I
D. _ Resources for Economic Development
The CEDS Committee and EDD staff work with numerous agencies and
organizations, primarily at the private, state and federal level, who provide support
and funding for the work plan activities and projects. They are listed below.
Federal Resources
Economic Development Administration
Appalachian Regional Commission
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 69
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 70
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Rural Development
Department of Energy
Army Corps of Engineers
Environmental Protection Agency
Small Business Administration
Office of Surface Mining
Federal Legislators
State Resources
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Virginia Department of Business Assistance
Virginia Tourism Corporation
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Virginia Department of Health
Virginia Tobacco Indemnification & Community Revitalization
Commission
Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy
Virginia Department of Transportation
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia Legislature
Private Resources
Virginia Resources Authority
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Rural Development
Department of Energy
Army Corps of Engineers
Environmental Protection Agency
Small Business Administration
Office of Surface Mining
Federal Legislators
State Resources
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Virginia Department of Business Assistance
Virginia Tourism Corporation
ia Department of Environmental Quality
ia Department of Health
ia Tobacco Indemnification & Community Revital
Commission
Virgi
ia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy
ia Department of Transportation
ia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Legislature
Private Resources
ia Resources Authority
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 70
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 71
Appalachian Sustainable Development
Thompson Foundation
Nature Conservancy
Over its nearly 47 years, the Cumberland Plateau has worked with its local
governments and agencies to bring in about 500 million in federal, state, and
regional grant and low-interest loan funds for infrastructure projects. This effort
has enabled huge advances in economic diversification and the quality of life in the
District.
E. Economic Development: Potentials and Constraints
a. Analysis of Potentials
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is already noted for the willingness
of its local governments to work together to improve their quality of life. Cumberland
Plateau is one of the oldest rural regional economic development agencies in the state,
and local government support of the PDC and regionalism is strong and entrenched.
The result has been the implementation of several joint activities that other districts
around the state are just now beginning. These and other strengths and opportunities
are included here:
• The quality of life, strong family values, friendly community
environment, low crime rate, safe public schools, low cost of housing, and
outdoor recreation opportunities in the Region are attractive to
workers and employers.
The natural beauty of this mountainous area, epitomized in the Breaks
Interstate Park, Burkes Garden, The Channels Park and the
Appalachian Sustainable Development
Thompson Foundation
Nature Conservancy
Over its nearly 47 years, the Cumberland Plateau has worked with its local
governments and agencies to bring in about 500 million in federal, state, and
regional grant and low-interest loan funds for infrastructure projects. This effort
has enabled huge advances in economic diversification and the quality of life in the
District.
E. Economic Development: Potentials and Constraints
a. Analysis of Potenti
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is already noted for the willingness
of its local governments to work together to improve their quality of life. Cumberland
Plateau is one of the oldest rural regional economic development agencies in the state,
and local government support of the PDC and regionalism is strong and entrenched.
The result has been the implementation of several joint activities that other districts
around the state are just now beginning. These and other strengths and opportunities
are included here:
© The quality of life, strong family values, friendly community
environment, low crime rate, safe public schools, low cost of housing, and
outdoor recreation opportunities in the Region are attractive to
workers and employers.
‘The natural beauty of this mountainous area, epitomized in the Breaks
Interstate Park, Burkes Garden, The Channels Park and the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 71
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 72
Pinnacles Park, is breathtaking.
• Regional cooperation is strong among the PDC and its local
governments and economic development organizations, as evidenced
by the creation of the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
Authority, the industrial marketing effort for the PDC and
LENOWISCO, the Virginia Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority,
the Virginia Coalfields Coalition, and the Coalfield Water Development
Fund all of which are joint efforts of the Cumberland Plateau and
LENOW1SCO PDC's.
• The district, through the Cumberland Plateau Company and the
Virginia Coalfield Coalition, is deploying an excellent
telecommunication infrastructure, with both fiber optic broadband
and wireless 4G service. When the project is completed, the
broadband network will consist of over 700 miles of fiber backbone
and middle mile fiber and service to 38 cell towers providing 4G
service to about 80 percent of residents in the region. This
impressive network will place Cumberland Plateau and
LENOWISCO as a top rural area in the nation for broadband
services.
• The Region's workforce has a proven record of high productivity, low
turnover rates, and low absentee rates.
• Community colleges, the Southwest Virginia Technology Development
Center and vocational training schools provide extensive training
Pinnacles Park, is breathtaking.
. Regional cooperation is strong among the PDC and its local
governments and economic development organizations, as evidenced
by the creation of the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
Authority, the industri
marketing effort for the PDC and
LENOWISCO, the Virginia Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority,
the Virginia Coalfields Coalition, and the Coalfield Water Development
Fund all of which are joint efforts of the Cumberland Plateau and
LENOWISCO PDC's.
. The district, through the Cumberland Plateau Company and the
Virginia Coalfield Co:
ion, is deploying an __ excellent
telecommunication infrastructure, with both fiber optic broadband
and wireless 4G service. When the project is completed, the
broadband network will consist of over 700 miles of fiber backbone
and middle mile fiber and service to 38 cell towers providing 4G
service to about 80 percent of residents in the region. This
impressive network will place Cumberland Plateau and
LENOWISCO as a top rural area in the nation for broadband
services.
. The Region's workforce has a proven record of high productivity, low
turnover rates, and low absentee rates.
. Community colleges, the Southwest Virginia Technology Development
Center and vocational training schools provide extensive training
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 72
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 73
opportunities. The new Centers of Excellence will greatly enhance
workforce skill levels for advanced manufacturing firms.
• Exceptional local incentive programs are provided to assist new and
expanding industry,
• Power rates are among the lowest in the nation.
• The District is part of a 19-county cultural heritage tourism project
that has made Southwest Virginia an international tourism
destination.
• Sustainable development initiatives, which look to creating new jobs in
forest products, agriculture, and nature tourism while safeguarding the
beauty and environment of the region, are in place.
• The Coalfields Expressway, a major four-lane highway that will run
from Beckley, West Virginia through Buchanan and Dickenson Counties
to Pound, Virginia is in various stages of design and/or construction.
Several major industrial sites will be developed along this route.
• The District has significant energy resources, including coal, natural gas
and wind.
As could be expected, the emphasis in the District to diversify has been focused
on attracting new service and telecommunication jobs. Our area is no different than
most—we hope also to attract higher-paying manufacturing jobs for our citizens. This
is especially true in the District because the labor force, primarily made up of
unemployed coal miners, has been used to finding good-paying jobs in the basic
industry sector. Because our labor force is large and equipped with skills in welding,
opportunities. The new Centers of Excellence will greatly enhance
workforce skill levels for advanced manufacturing firms,
. Exceptional local incentive programs are provided to assist new and
expanding industry,
. Power rates are among the lowest in the nation,
. The District is part of a 19-county cultural heritage tourism project
that has made Southwest Virginia an international tourism
des
© Sustainable development initiatives, which look to creating new jobs in
forest products, agi
ulture, and nature tourism while safeguarding the
beauty and environment of the region, are in place.
. The Coalfields Expressway, a major four-lane highway that will run
from Beckley, West Virginia through Buchanan and Dickenson Counties
to Pound, Virginia is in various stages of design and/or construction.
Several major industrial sites will be developed along this route.
© The District has significant energy resources, including coal, natural gas
and wind.
As could be expected, the emphasis in the District to diversify has been focused
on attracting new service and telecommunication jobs. Our area is no different than
This
most—we hope also to attract higher-paying manufacturing jobs for our citizens. 1
is especially true in the District because the labor force, primarily made up of
unemployed coal miners, has been used to finding good-paying jobs in the basic
industry sector. Because our labor force is large and equipped with skills in welding,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 73
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 74
metal fabrication, electronics and mechanics, we have excellent potential for attracting
automotive firms, equipment manufacturers and other basic industries. State
marketing concerns have focused on our labor force characteristics and are bringing
prospects in these fields to our area. These efforts should result in reemployment of a
number of our unemployed miners.
While the majority of local efforts are aimed at attracting basic industry jobs,
the District has a great potential for attracting service sector jobs in the tourism and
recreation areas. There is a good supply of recreational and tourist attractions
spread through-out the four-county region. All of the counties have easy access to
Breaks Interstate Park, which is located on the Virginia-Kentucky border with most
of the Park's 4,500 acres falling within Dickenson County. The Park boasts the largest
Canyon east of the Mississippi, carved out by the Russell Fork River, and nicknamed
the "Grand Canyon of the South".
Potential for this park to be developed into a major tourist attraction is
significant. It is truly a unique and magnificent natural scenic wonder. This park has
the potential to bring tens of thousands of tourists to the District and create many
more jobs.
Another recreational site in Dickenson County is the John W. Flannagan Dam
and Reservoir, which is located five miles from Haysi on the Pound River, a tributary
of the Russell Fork River. Visitors to the Reservoir enjoy opportunities to participate
in outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and
boating. It is an especially fine small and large mouth bass lake.
Another asset to the area is the fact that the TransAmerica Bike Trail bisects
metal fabrication, electronics and mechanics, we have excellent potential for attracting
automotive firms, equipment manufacturers and other basic industries. State
marketing concerns have focused on our labor force characteristics and are bringing
prospects in these fields to our area, These efforts should result in reemployment of a
number of our unemployed miners.
While the majority of local efforts are aimed at attracting basic industry jobs,
the District has a great potential for attracting service sector jobs in the tourism and
recreation areas. There is a good supply of recreational and tourist attractions
spread through-out the four-county region. All of the counties have easy access to
Breaks Interstate Park, which is located on the Virginia-Kentucky border with most
of the Park's 4,500 acres falling within Dickenson County. The Park boasts the largest
Canyon east of the Mississippi, carved out by the Russell Fork River, and nicknamed
the "Grand Canyon of the South".
Potential for this park to be developed into a major tourist attraction is
significant. It is truly a unique and magnificent natural scenic wonder. This park has
the potential to bring tens of thousands of tourists to the District and create many
more jobs.
Another recreational site in Dickenson County is the John W. Flannagan Dam
and Reservoir, which is located five miles from Haysi on the Pound River, a tributary
of the Russell Fork River. Visitors to the Reservoir enjoy opportunities to participate
in outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and
boating. It is an esp fine small and large mouth bass lake.
Another asset to the area is the fact that the TransAmerica Bike Trail bisects
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 74
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 75
the District along Route 80 from Hayters Gap in Russell County through Council in
Buchanan County to the Breaks Interstate Park in Dickenson County. Established in
1976 for the Bicenntenial, the trail is still used by hundreds of bicyclists every year and
is the nation’s most traveled bike trail extending from Yorktown, Virginia to Astoria,
Oregon. More could be done to accommodate these tourists and give them a chance to
spend more than one day in the District. The Towns of Haysi and Honaker are
planning an event across Big A Mountain, one of the steepest climbs on the Trail.
The four counties share access to Jefferson National Forest, a 690,000 acre
forest located in central Southwest Virginia. Russell and Tazewell Counties both
claim small portions of this forest's huge acreage and its many recreational attractions,
including the beautiful Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area and the
Channels State Forest. Jefferson National Forest has recently received media
attention for becoming the nation's first forest to actively promote tourism rather
than simply waiting for people to ask for information.
The District also has several points of historical interest that could bring
tourists to the area. One of the most significant ones is the Daniel Boone National
Historic Trail which crosses the District in Russell County. Castlewood, in western
Russell County, is the site of Fort Castle's Woods, one of the early frontier forts on the
Clinch River. It was from here that Daniel Boone tracked the Indians who kidnapped
and killed one of his sons. Portions of the old frontier trail to Cumberland Gap are
still present. If the National Park Service pursues development of this project, it could
be a major tourist attraction.
Another historic asset is the Fincastle Trail, an off-shoot of the National
the District along Route 80 from Hayters Gap in Russell County through Council in
Buchanan County to the Breaks Interstate Park in Dickenson County. Established in
1976 for the Bicenntenial, the trail
used by hundreds of bicyclists every year and
is the nation’s most traveled bike trail extending from Yorktown, Virginia to Astoria,
Oregon. More could be done to accommodate these tourists and give them a chance to
spend more than one day in the District. The Towns of Haysi and Honaker are
planning an event across Big A Mountain, one of the steepest climbs on the Trail.
The four counties share access to Jefferson National Forest, a 690,000 acre
forest located in central Southwest Virginia. Russell and Tazewell Counties both
claim small portions of this forest's huge acreage and its many recreational attractions,
including the beautiful Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area and the
Channels State Forest. Jefferson National Forest has recently received media
attention for becoming the nation’s first forest to actively promote tourism rather
than simply waiting for people to ask for information.
The District also has several points of historical interest that could bring
tourists to the area. One of the most significant ones is the Daniel Boone National
Historic Trail which crosses the District in Russell County. Castlewood, in western
Russell County, is the site of Fort Castle's Woods, one of the early frontier forts on the
Clinch River. It was from here that Daniel Boone tracked the Indians who kidnapped
and killed one of his sons. Portions of the old frontier trail to Cumberland Gap are
still present. If the National Park Service pursues development of this project,
could
be a major tourist attraction.
Another historic asset is the Fincastle Trail, an off-shoot of the National
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 75
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 76
Migration Trail which ran from Philadelphia west and then southwest through the
Valley of Virginia and eventually to the Cumberland Gap. Portions of this trail are
still visible.
Also, near the Town of Tazewell, is the Historic Crab Orchard Museum and
Pioneer Park, located on 110 acres of land designated as a prehistoric and historic site
by the Virginia Division of Historic Landmarks and the National Register of Historic
Places. The Museum presents the history of Tazewell County and Southwest Virginia
from five hundred and seventy million years ago to the present time.
A new initiative seeks to promote economic opportunities along the Clinch
River, North America’s most bio-diverse river. Communities along the river have
joined to promote a Clinch River State Park, more access points for canoeists and
kayakers, environmental education programs, a water quality initiative and a
downtown revitalization effort.
Other sites of historic interest in the target area include: the Town of
Pocahontas, which has been placed on the Virginia Register and the National Register
as a historic preservation zone; the Old Russell County Courthouse, designated as a
Virginia historic landmark and placed on the State Register; and the Cedar Bluff
Roller Mills, placed on both the State and National Registers for historic places. All of
these places collectively offer an interesting variety of historical attractions for
tourists.
b. Problems and Constraints
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District, despite many strengths, still has to
deal with some issues that pose significant constraints and barriers to the
Migration Trail which ran from Philadelphia west and then southwest through the
Valley of Virginia and eventually to the Cumberland Gap. Portions of this trail are
still visible.
Also, near the Town of Tazewell, is the Historic Crab Orchard Museum and
Pioneer Park, located on 110 acres of land designated as a prehistoric and historic site
by the Virginia Division of Historic Landmarks and the National Register of Historic
Places. The Museum presents the history of Tazewell County and Southwest Virginia
from five hundred and seventy million years ago to the present time.
A new
iative seeks to promote economic opportunities along the Clinch
River, North America’s most bio-diverse river. Communities along the river have
joined to promote a Clinch River State Park, more access points for canoeists and
kayakers, environmental education programs, a water quality initiative and a
downtown revitalization effort.
Other sites of historic interest in the target area include: the Town of
Pocahontas, which has been placed on the Virginia Register and the National Register
as a historic preservation zone; the Old Russell County Courthouse, designated as a
Virginia historic landmark and placed on the State Register; and the Cedar Bluff
Roller Mills, placed on both the State and National Registers for historic places. All of
these places collectively offer an interesting variety of historical attractions for
tourists.
b. Problems and Constraints
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District, despite many strengths, still has to
deal with some issues that pose significant constraints and barriers to the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 76
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 77
District's overall economic development Most of these issues are related to the
reality that the District is mountainous, making the acquisition and
development of large industrial sites, infrastructure, housing, community
facilities, and highways extremely costly. Many of these issues have been
identified through various strategic planning exercises that have taken place
recently in the region. The Cumberland Plateau revisited these issues and
identified several current significant constraints and barriers to the District's
overall economic recovery and prioritized them. They are as follows:
• Topography offers many constraints to development. Roads are difficult
and expensive to build, industrial sites are hard to find and expensive to
buy and develop, and public utilities, such as water and sewer systems,
are costly to construct.
• There is a lack of capital from local lending institutions, and of
affordable space for complimentary technical support to meet
the needs of local entrepreneurs.
• The District's labor force generally has lower levels of educational
attainment because there is a lack of job opportunities for high school
and college graduates. This has led to outmigration of many of our most
educated citizens.
• There are few large (50-100 acre) industrial sites in the District
that so many industries are now requiring.
• There is a lack of quality market-rate housing, especially rental housing,
in the District.
District's overall economic development Most of these issues are related to the
reality that the District is mountainous, making the acquisition and
development of large industrial sites, infrastructure, housing, community
facilities, and highways extremely costly. Many of these issues have been
identified through various strategic planning exercises that have taken place
recently in the region. The Cumberland Plateau revisited these issues and
identified several current significant constraints and barriers to the District's
overall economic recovery and prioritized them. They are as follows:
. Topography offers many constraints to development. Roads are difficult
and expensive to build, industrial sites are hard to find and expensive to
buy and develop, and public utilities, such as water and sewer systems,
are costly to construct.
. there is a lack of capital from local lending institutions, and of
affordable space for complimentary technical support to meet
the needs of local entrepreneurs.
* The District's labor force generally has lower levels of educational
attainment because there is a lack of job opportunities for high school
and college graduates. This has led to outmigration of many of our most
educated citizens.
«There are few large (50-100 acre) industrial sites in the District
that so many industries are now requiring.
© There is a lack of quality market-rate housing, especially rental housing,
in the District.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 77
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 78
• The region lacks a significant growth center or centers.
While these are considered the most significant constraints and barriers to
economic recovery, some of these are directly related to our potential strengths
and listed previously. For instance, the lack of an interstate highway and the
sometimes chaotic growth it brings may be a large reason that our District's
natural beauty is somewhat unspoiled. And some of the impediments have
another side of the coin. The District's labor force, for example, does have lower
educational attainment levels, largely because many older persons quit school
early to go to work in the coal mines because the salaries and benefits were so
good. Now, many are unemployed. But as new industries come in, they are
finding that many of these dislocated miners who worked in a highly
mechanized industry have a multitude of skills that make them ideal employees.
The District will look to redefine some of these perceptions and make positives
where negatives once resided.
© The region lacks a significant growth center or centers.
While these are considered the most significant constraints and barriers to
economic recovery, some of these are directly related to our potential strengths
and listed previously. For instance, the lack of an interstate highway and the
som
es chaotic growth it brings may be a large reason that our District's
natural beauty is somewhat unsp
d. And some of the impediments have
another side of the coin. The District's labor force, for example, does have lower
educational attainment levels, largely because many older persons quit school
early to go to work in the coal mines because the salaries and benefits were so
good. Now, many are unemployed. But as new industries come in, they are
fin
g that many of these dislocated miners who worked in a highly
mechanized industry have a mu
ude of skills that make them ideal employees.
The District will look to redefine some of these perceptions and make po
where negatives once resided.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 78
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 79
3. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
A. Goals
The goals and objectives defining regional expectations were developed by
the EDD staff in cooperation with the CEDS Committee, local governments and
other regional organizations. The CEDS Committee and local government
representatives reviewed information submitted by the staff and discussed it in
committee meetings. The CEDS Committee set priorities for goals and objectives
based on activities already underway, the opportunities available to meet the goals
and objectives, as well as the impact each goal and objective would have on
addressing economic development needs in the District.
Goal No. 1 -- Economic Development/Tourism
Diversify the District's economic base in order to reduce dependence on coal
mining and improve the ability of local governments to foster new or
expanding business, especially in the target industries of information
technology, automotive, clean and alternative energy, advanced
manufacturing, aquaculture and wood products and in the field of asset –
based development. A more robust regional marketing effort is needed to
focus on our strengths to attract more industrial prospects and locations.
Attract more tourists through the development of more and better park and
recreation facilities, especially trails, and through partnerships with state
and regional cultural heritage initiatives. Promote outdoor recreation, such
as white water rafting, hiking, ATV trails and rock climbing, in the region.
3. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
A. Goals
The goals and objectives defining regional expectations were developed by
the EDD staff in cooperation with the CEDS Committee, local governments and
other regional organizations. The CEDS Committee and local government
representatives reviewed information submitted by the staff and discussed it in
committee meetings. The CEDS Committee set priorities for goals and objectives
based on activities already underway, the opportunities available to meet the goals
and objectives, as well as the impact each goal and objective would have on
addressing economic development needs in the District.
Goal No. 1 ~ Economic Development/Tourism
Diversify the District's economic base in order to reduce dependence on coal
mining and improve the ability of local governments to foster new or
expanding business, especially in the target industries of information
technology, automotive, clean and alternative energy, advanced
manufacturing, aquaculture and wood products and in the field of asset —
based development, A more robust regional marketing effort is needed to
focus on our strengths to attract more industrial prospects and locations.
Attract more tourists through the development of more and better park and
recreation facilities, especially trails, and through partnerships with state
and regional cultural heritage initiatives. Promote outdoor recreation, such
fe water rafting, hiking, ATV trails and rock climbing, in the region.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 79
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 80
Goal No. 2 – Workforce Development/Education
Provide a highly trained work force by effectively using K-12 public school
system, WIB Programs, SWCC’s Fast Track Training Program and the
programs and facilities of the Southwest Virginia Technology Development
Center, UVA-Wise and Bluefield College. Support the development of
Centers of Excellence in the District and Southwest Virginia to meet the
workforce needs of advanced manufacturers. Encourage the continued
development of graduate schools in the District in partnership with area 4-
year colleges and other institutions. Address regional opportunities to
improve K-12 education systems in the District, to better prepare its young
people for 21st century jobs.
Goal No. 3 -- Infrastructure Development
Work to provide public water and sewer service, waste management
programs, broadband and wireless infrastructure and natural gas service in
existing areas of population concentration and in areas targeted for
residential, commercial and industrial development.
Goal No. 4 – Transportation
Encourage the continued development of a transportation network and
public transportation that will enhance safer highways and provide better
access to District industrial sites and to major trade markets and to the
District’s unique cultural heritage and outdoor recreation assets.
Goal No. 5 – Asset-based Development
Create quality jobs to build sustainable local economies through the support
Goal No. 2 ~ Workforce Development/Education
Provide a highly trained work force by effectively using K-12 public school
system, WIB Programs, SWCC’s Fast Track Trai
ing Program and the
programs and facilities of the Southwest Virginia Technology Development
Center, UVA-Wise and Bluefield College. Support the development of
Centers of Excellence in the District and Southwest Virginia to meet the
workforce needs of advanced manufacturers. Encourage the continued
development of graduate schools in the District in partnership with area 4-
year colleges and other institutions. Address regional opportunities to
improve K-12 education systems in the District, to better prepare its young
people for 21* century jobs.
Goal No. 3 ~ Infrastructure Development
Work to provide public water and sewer service, waste management
programs, broadband and wireless infrastructure and natural gas service in
existing areas of population concentration and in areas targeted for
residential, commercial and industrial development.
Goal Ni ‘ansportation
Encourage the continued development of a transportation network and
public transportation that will enhance safer highways and provide better
access to District industrial sites and to major trade markets and to the
District’s unique cultural heritage and outdoor recreation assets.
Goal No. 5— Asset-based Development
Create quality jobs to build sustainable local economies through the support
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 80
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 81
of value-added businesses and asset-based development strategies, especially
in the areas of wood products (alternative fuels from wood chips), agri-
technology (aquaculture), agriculture (produce and livestock), cultural and
natural heritage tourism and outdoor recreation.
Goal No. 6 – Natural Resources
Promote the proper use of natural resources, such as coal, natural gas and
timber. Encourage natural resource development using clean coal
technology, alternative energy and hydro-electric technologies that will
create the most jobs while protecting the natural environment. Support
research programs at Dickenson Center for Education and Research and
other regional research facilities. Support the use of natural gas locally as an
economic development incentive. Support the development of wind and solar
energy projects.
Goal No. 7 -- Physical Environment
Encourage the achievement of a healthful, pleasing and efficient environment
which encompasses a diversity of living patterns and provides for a broad
range of choice for each citizen. Promote the revitalization of the District’s
downtowns. This goal relates to the needs of all citizens as they pertain to
land use, community facilities, utilities, transportation and environment.
Goal No. 8 – Entrepreneurship
Support the development of entrepreneurship initiatives in the District,
especially for the development of small businesses in the District’s
downtowns.
of value-added businesses and asset-based development strategies, especially
in the areas of wood products (alternative fuels from wood chips), agri-
technology (aquaculture), agriculture (produce and livestock), cultural and
natural heritage tourism and outdoor recreation.
Goal No. 6 — Natural Resources
Promote the proper use of natural resources, such as coal, natural gas and
timber. Encourage natural resource development using clean coal
technology, alternative energy and hydro-electric technologies that will
create the most jobs while protecting the natural environment. Support
research programs at Dickenson Center for Education and Research and
other regional research facilities. Support the use of natural gas locally as an
economic development incentive. Support the development of wind and solar
energy projects.
Goal No. 7 ~ Physical Environment
Encourage the achievement of a healthful, pleasing and efficient environment
which encompasses a diversity of living patterns and provides for a broad
range of choice for each citizen. Promote the revitalization of the District's
downtowns. This goal relates to the needs of all citizens as they pertain to
land use, community facilities, utilities, transportation and environment.
Goal No. 8— Entrepreneurship
Support the development of entrepreneurship initiatives in the District,
especially for the development of small businesses in the District’s
downtowns.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 81
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 82
Goal No. 9 – Housing
Support the expansion of the range of housing opportunities for all District
citizens.
Goal No. 10 – Health & Substance Abuse
Support the development and expansion of medical facilities and programs
to address the unique health and substance abuse needs of the region’s
citizens and its workforce.
B. Objectives
Short-Term
1. Work with regional and local entities to create one large mega-site for
industrial growth in the Virginia Coalfields region.
2. Work to create and/or maintain a minimum of one thousand (1,000)
jobs over the next five (5) year period.
3. Develop new and/or promote existing business and technology parks
of at least one hundred acres in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and
Tazewell Counties.
4. Continue to work with Federal and State Agencies to plan and
develop water and sewer projects that are essential to future economic
growth. The availability of water and sewer should increase by a
minimum of ten percent over the next five (5) years.
5. Work with Appalachian Sustainable Development and other private
organizations to develop sustainable development programs in the
Goal No. 9 — Housin;
Support the expansion of the range of housing opportunities for all District
citizens.
Goal No. 10 — Health & Substance Abuse
Support the development and expansion of medical facilities and programs
to address the unique health and substance abuse needs of the region’s
citizens and its workforce.
B. Objectives
Work with regional and local entities to create one large mega-site for
industrial growth in the Virginia Coalfields region.
Work to create and/or maintain a minimum of one thousand (1,000)
jobs over the next five (5) year period,
Develop new and/or promote existing business and technology parks
of at least one hundred acres in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and
Tazewell Counties.
Continue to work with Federal and State Agencies to plan and
develop water and sewer projects that are essential to future economic
growth, The availability of water and sewer should increase by a
minimum of ten percent over the next five (5) years.
Work with Appalachian Sustainable Development and other private
organizations to develop sustainable development programs in the
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 82
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 83
areas of wood products, organic agriculture (produce and livestock),
and nature tourism.
6. Encourage the completion of the Coalfields Expressway which links
the District to I-77 and U.S. 23. Work to improve State Route 80 to
the Breaks Interstate Park, as well as Rt. 83 at Lover’s Gap and Rt.
460. Also other secondary highways in the Six-Year Plan. These
projects will substantially improve the District's ability to foster
tourism and industrial development.
7. Work to support the efforts of the Southwest Virginia Cultural
Heritage Foundation, The Crooked Road, ‘Round the Mountain,
Heartwood, Appalachian Spring, the Coal Heritage Trail, Spearhead
Trails, and other trails to make Southwest Virginia a world-class
destination for cultural heritage and outdoor recreational tourism.
8. Effectively use the WIB and other training programs to upgrade and
expand the work-force available to industry by providing customized
training to meet the needs of individual industries. Support the
development of a workforce training facilities in the District and
Southwest Virginia as part of the Centers of Excellence effort in
advanced manufacturing.
9. Develop expanded business and industrial marketing programs. This
will be accomplished in association with the Virginia Economic
Development Partnership, the Virginia Coalfield Economic Develop-
ment Authority, Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing, local
areas of wood products, organic agriculture (produce and livestock),
and nature tourism.
6. Encourage the completion of the Coalfields Expressway which links
the District to I-77 and U.S. 23. Work to improve State Route 80 to
the Breaks Interstate Park, as well as Rt. 83 at Lover’s Gap and Rt.
460. Also other secondary highways in the Six-Year Plan. These
projects will substantially improve the District's ability to foster
tourism and industrial development.
7. Work to support the efforts of the Southwest Virginia Cultural
Heritage Foundation, The Crooked Road, ‘Round the Mountain,
Heartwood, Appalachian Spring, the Coal Heritage Trail, Spearhead
Trails, and other trails to make Southwest Virginia a world-class
destination for cultural heritage and outdoor recreational tourism.
8. Effectively use the WIB and other training programs to upgrade and
expand the work-force available to industry by providing customized
training to meet the needs of individual industries. Support the
development of a workforce training facilities in the District and
Southwest Virginia as part of the Centers of Excellence effort in
advanced manufacturing.
9, — Develop expanded business and industrial marketing programs. This
ia Economic
il be accomplished in association with the Virgi
Development Partnership, the Virginia Coalfield Economic Develop-
ment Authority, Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing, local
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 83
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 84
IDA’s and other development partners.
10. Complete Regional Broadband and Wireless Projects to bring
Broadband infrastructure to the entire District using fiber and
wireless technologies.
11. Develop a downtown revitalization program for the Towns of
Lebanon and Tazewell.
12. Work with LENOWISCO and Appalachian Prosperity Project to
develop and/or expand regional entrepreneurship, health and
wellness/outdoor recreation blueprints.
13. Work to support the creation of a Clinch River State Park and a
collaborative community development strategy for the towns along
the Clinch River.
14. Work to support the creation of a municipal natural gas utility in the
Towns of Richlands and Tazewell and Tazewell County, and the
entire region.
15. Support continued improvements at the Breaks Interstate Park, The
Pinnacle and The Channels Parks.
Long-Term
1. Create three thousand (3,000) new non-coal related jobs over the next
ten (10) years.
IDA’s and other development partners.
10. Complete Regional Broadband and Wireless Projects to bring
Broadband infrastructure to the entire District using fiber and
wireless technologies.
11, Develop a downtown revitalization program for the Towns of
Lebanon and Tazewell.
12. Work with LENOWISCO and Appalachian Prosperity Project to
develop and/or expand regional entrepreneurship, health and
wellness/outdoor recreation blueprints.
13. Work to support the creation of a Clinch River State Park and a
collaborative community development strategy for the towns along
the Clinch River.
14, Work to support the creation of a mun
Towns of Richlands and Tazewell and Tazewell County, and the
entire region.
15. Support continued improvements at the Breaks Interstate Park, The
Pinnacle and The Channels Parks.
Long-Term
1, Create three thousand (3,000) new non-coal related jobs over the next
ten (10) years.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 84
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 85
4. COMMUNITY & PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION
Over the years of its existence, the CPPDC has nurtured a strong
relationship with the private sector through the involvement of private sector
leaders in the development of its CEDS, the marketing of its Revolving Loan Fund,
and through membership of District staff on the Board of Directors of several
regional economic development agencies and organizations. The District’s Executive
Director is a member of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Coalfield Economic
Development Authority, the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation,
Friends of Southwest Virginia, The Crooked Road; Virginia’s Heritage Music
Trail, ‘Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network, Appalachian
Spring, Appalachian Sustainable Development and other boards with significant
private sector membership.
Through the creation of the Virginia Coalfield Coalition, the CPPDC has
been involved in a wireless 4G initiative in partnership with Verizon Wireless. This
initiative will bring 4G coverage to the coalfields region of Virginia, making it one of
the first rural areas in the nation with 4G service. This $26 million project will
greatly enhance the quality of life in the region and increase industrial retention and
recruitment in the area.
Through the District’s broadband infrastructure project, over 1,000 private
businesses and institutions, public and private, now have access to high speed,
redundant broadband services. The District’s relationship with the private sector
has never been stronger.
4. COMMUNITY & PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION
Over the years of its existence, the CPPDC has nurtured a strong
relationship with the private sector through the involvement of private sector
leaders in the development of its CEDS, the marketing of its Revolving Loan Fund,
and through membership of District staff on the Board of Directors of several
regional economic development agencies and organizations. The District’s Executive
Director is a member of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Coalfield Economic
Development Authority, the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation,
Friends of Southwest Virginia, The Crooked Road; Virginia’s Heritage Music
Trail, ‘Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network, Appalachian
Spring, Appalachian Sustainable Development and other boards with significant
private sector membership.
Through the creation of the Virginia Coalfield Coalition, the CPPDC has
been involved in a wireless 4G initiative in partnership with Verizon Wireless. This
ative will bring 4G coverage to the coalfields region of Virginia, making it one of
the first rural areas in the nation with 4G service. This $26 million project will
greatly enhance the quality of life in the region and increase industrial retention and
recruitment in the area.
Through the District’s broadband infrastructure project, over 1,000 private
businesses and institutions, public and private, now have access to high speed,
redundant broadband services. The District’s relationship with the private sector
has never been stronger.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 85
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 86
5. STRATEGIC PROJECTS, PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES
Based on the basic needs identified in the Regional Analysis, the following
vital projects were identified by the staff and CEDS Committee and were prioritized
to meet the goals previously set forth. There are two priority categories. Priority 1
projects are those construction projects which are in advanced stages of planning
and/or development. Priority 2 projects are construction projects in the formative
stage or early planning stages of development. Priority 3 projects which involve
non-construction planning and technical assistance, are not listed. These are on
going from year to year.
5. STRATEGIC PROJECTS, PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES
Based on the basic needs identified in the Regional Analysis, the following
vital projects were identified by the staff and CEDS Committee and were prio
ized
to meet the goals previously set forth. There are two priority categories. Priority 1
projects are those construction projects which are in advanced stages of planning
and/or development. Priority 2 projects are construction projects in the formative
stage or early planning stages of development. Priority 3 projects which involve
non-construction planning and technical assistance, are not listed. These are on
going from year to year.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 86
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 87
‘COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY--PRIORITY PROJECTS,
Cumberland Plateau Planning Distriet Commission
amuary £,2016—December 31, 2016
PROJKCI PRIORITY DESCRIPTION FUNDING SOURCE. AMOUNT Goal
Southem Gap 1 Development of 3200aere ARC $4,000,000 1
Industrial Park! IndustialCommerciaHousing CDBG 1.000.000
Mulit-tise Development Project Site and supporting nfasiuciure EDA 2,000,000
(Buchanan County) tnd roed development ‘Tob. Comm 400,000
cba
cal
Dickenson Center for 1A workforee taining & EDA 1,000,000
Education and Research technology center fo cuba 1,800,000
Phase 2 clean energy, development, CDBG 00,000,
(ickenson Covnty) ‘oer RAD buiseses
Bluestone Business 1——_Development of sites and EDA $2,000.00 1
and Technology Center infrastructure in Bus Tech Center ARC 500,000
(Tavewell Co.) cone 700,000
RD 1,000,000
Tab. Comm, 2,000,000
Laat 2,000,000
Bluestone Workforce 2A. workforce waning facility EDA $2,000,000 1
Training Center for IT, AM, and energy Tob. Comm. 72,000,000
(Tazewell Co) development RD 000,000
Local 1,000,000
Doe Branch Business Park Development ofa large business $2,000,000 1
(Dickenson Co.) and industrial park near 500,000
Baysi 700,000,
4,000,000
500,000,
Red Onion Development of ge $2,000,000 1
Industria Park ‘regional indusral park on 500,000
(Dickenson County) Dickenson/Wise Co, Border 2,000,000
3,000,000
500,000
Russell Co, Regional Business Development of 1s0-asr6 EDA 2,000,000 1
and Technology Park Phase 2 business an technology Tob. Comm, 2,000,000
(Russell Co.) 2 pak Local To00,000
Castlewood Sewer- 1 Sewer Ext cpaG 8 850,000 2
Phase tb to serve Castlewood Community Local 32,000
(Bossell County) RD 2,203,064
Hurley Community 1——_~Extenscm of public 4799852
‘Water Project Phase water to households ‘cona 000,000
6 SwyWiww "200,000
(Boehanan County) cwDr 200,000
Local 1,058,890
Spearhead Trail 1 Multi-Use Trait te si,000,000 8
(istrict) System EDA
Local
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 87
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 88
PROUECT PRIOR’
TORRTM T
Heartwood
(District)
Ramey/460 Sewer Project 1
(Tazewell County)
Richlands Natural Gas 1
Utility Projet
Regional Wireless 1
Project
CClinehoo(Cenenniat 1
eights Sewer Replacement
Project
(Diekenson County)
Falls Mills Adult
Dayeare
(Tazewell County)
Project Jonah 1
‘Tazewell County)
SSCRIPLION
Regional Cura
heritage nttives
Sever extension support
business expansion
Expansion ofa egional
4G network projet
Sewerline improvements
to support growth in Hayst
and Clineheo
Renovation of vacant school
‘uildng into an ad dayne
faciliy
Large aquacultare projet
in Richlinds
Priory | - Project ean be implemented in one to two years
Priority 2- Projet wil take two or moe years to implement.
"Note: Te environmental impact ofeach project has not been a
‘completed on each project during the application stage. Based on EDD staf knowledge, none ofthese projets are
expected to have a significant environmental impact.
bor
DMMB.
CEDA
Toeal
ARC
DEG
DEQ
cpac
RSS
Thompson Foundation
Short Foundation
Bll Skews Foundation
EDA
Private
VCEDA
Other
CPPDC RLE
AMOUNT
1,000,000
300,000
1,000,000
00,000
200,000,
$1,831,385
$10,000,000
1,000,000,
1,900,000
2,000,000
$ 1,000,000
200,000
1,500,000
Ss 300,000
200,000,
5 1,000,000
1000,000,
1/300,000
200,000,
1,500,000
$ 2,000,000
104,187,300
114,000,000
38,000,000
125,000
Goal
®
lyzed in any dil. An environmental astessment wil be
Note:The primary responsibility for implementing these projects rests with CPPDC staff. Coordination withthe various
Toca state,
etal, and private agencies wil be eared out bythe CPPDC.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile
Page 88
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 89
6. ACTION PLAN
A. Development Strategy
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is a victim of economic
dislocations in the coal mining industry. Since the turn of the century the District
economy has relied on the coal industry to provide jobs for its people. The nature of
the coal industry has always been one of "boom" and "bust", thus, creating an
unstable economic base. It is essential that the CEDS Committee and the Planning
District staff understand the structure of the economy and the factors which have
led to economic distress if the District is to develop economically in the future.
The District action plan will focus, as it has for most of its existence, on
diversification. Most of the District's effort in the past has been on development of
the infrastructure that is a prerequisite for industrial development. Highways,
water and sewer, and industrial site development have been the main elements in
the District's development program. The District’s Regional Broadband and
Wireless projects, as well as sustainable development and cultural heritage
initiatives, have recently been added to this Program. In the last three (3) years, a
regional outdoor recreation initiative, Appalachian Spring, has been added. There
remains much work to be done in these areas, but the primary thrust in the future
will be on recruiting new or expanding businesses and industries in
telecommunications and advanced manufacturing to the area and to insuring that
local workforce and K-12 education improvements are made. Industrial parks and
sites will be prepared to meet the needs of both small and large industries. A major
effort is now underway to create a mega-site in the coalfields region. The District
ACTION PLAN
A. Development Strategy
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District is a victim of economic
dislocations in the coal mining industry. Since the turn of the century the District
economy has relied on the coal industry to provide jobs for its people. The nature of
the coal industry has always been one of "boom" and "bust", thus, creating an
unstable economic base. It is essential that the CEDS Committee and the Planning
District staff understand the structure of the economy and the factors which have
led to economic distress if the District is to develop economically in the future.
The District action plan will focus, as it has for most of its existence, on
diversification. Most of the
's effort in the past has been on development of
the infrastructure that is a prerequisite for industrial development. Highways,
water and sewer, and industrial site development have been the main elements in
the Di
's development program. The District’s Regional Broadband and
Wireless projects, as well as sustainable development and cultural heritage
initiatives, have recently been added to this Program. In the last three (3) years, a
regional outdoor recreation initiative, Appalachian Spring, has been added. There
remains much work to be done in these areas, but the primary thrust in the future
will be on recruiting new or expanding businesses and industries in
telecommunications and advanced manufacturing to the area and to insuring that
local workforce and K-12 education improvements are made. Industrial parks and
sites will be prepared to meet the needs of both small and large industries. A major
effort is now underway to create a mega-site in the coalfields region. The District
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 89
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 90
will continue to work with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership,
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority, the Virginia Tourism
Corporation, Friends of Southwest Virginia and local IDA’s and others to market
the area to businesses and industries seeking to expand.
In this spirit, the District CEDS Committee has identified the opportunity to
obtain funding from the recent POWER Initiative created by the federal
government and the proposed POWER Plus Program to support the advanced
manufacturing and outdoor recreation sectors of the regional economy. A
consortium of PDCs, Community Colleges, workforce training organizations,
private industry groups and others received a POWER grant to support
entrepreneurial and infrastructure needs to address some of the obstacles to
economic growth in the district.
The action plan has many facets, including the following:
1. Increase availability and utilization of financial and other industrial
location incentives.
2. Enhance skill training programs and their linkages with industry and
access to these facilities.
3. Increase inventory of industrial buildings and developed land.
4. Improve entrepreneurial opportunities, especially for unemployed
workers and managers.
5. Improve financing and other support mechanisms and provide a
better climate for small business entrepreneurism and expansion,
especially tourism-related businesses that might locate in revitalized
will continue to work with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership,
Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority, the Virginia Tourism
Corporation, Friends of Southwest Virgi and local IDA’s and others to market
the area to businesses and industries seeking to expand.
In this spirit, the District CEDS Committee has identified the opportunity to
obtain funding from the recent POWER Initiative created by the federal
government and the proposed POWER Plus Program to support the advanced
manufacturing and outdoor recreation sectors of the regional economy. A
consortium of PDCs, Community Colleges, workforce training organizations,
private industry groups and others received a POWER grant to support
entrepreneurial and infrastructure needs to address some of the obstacles to
economic growth in the district.
The action plan has many facets, including the following:
and other industrial
1, Increase availability and utilization of financi:
location incentives.
2. Enhance skill training programs and their linkages with industry and
access to these facilities.
3. __ Increase inventory of industrial buildings and developed land.
4. Improve entrepreneurial opportunities, especially for unemployed
workers and managers,
5. Improve financing and other support mechanisms and provide a
better climate for sm:
I business entreprencurism and expansion,
especially tourism-related businesses that might locate in revitalized
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 90
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 91
downtown districts.
6. Develop facilities and special support programs suitable for small
and medium-sized firms which will help diversify the economy.
7. Improve area highway network and other transportation access,
especially the Coalfields Expressway.
8. Increase the number and improve the quality of area water and sewer
systems.
9. Develop programs to add value to coal before it is shipped elsewhere
(e.g., clean coal technologies).
10. Improve tourism facilities and access to park areas as well as other
commercial infrastructure.
11. Strengthen economic development planning capabilities.
12. Improve public and private attitudes and support for development
plans.
13. Develop and implement improved area - specific industrial and
business marketing and recruitment programs.
14. Provide the region with a ubiquitous state-of-the-art
telecommunications system.
15. Support improvements in K-12 and higher education to address
educational attainment challenges.
16. Support the improvement and development of the District’s health
care facilities, especially in the area of substance abuse.
8.
10.
ta
12.
13.
14.
16.
downtown di ‘ts.
Develop facilities and special support programs suitable for small
and medium-sized firms which will help diversify the economy.
Improve area highway network and other transportation access,
especially the Coalfields Expressway.
Increase the number and improve the quality of area water and sewer
systems.
Develop programs to add value to coal before it is shipped elsewhere
(c.g., clean coal technologies).
Improve tourism facilities and access to park areas as well as other
commercial infrastructure.
Strengthen economic development planning capabilities.
Improve public and private attitudes and support for development
plans.
Develop and implement improved area - specific industrial and
business marketing and recruitment programs.
Provide the region with a ubiquitous state-of-the-art
telecommunications system.
Support improvements in K-12 and higher education to address
educational attainment challenges.
Support the improvement and development of the District’s health
care facilities, especially in the area of substance abuse.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 91
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 92
B. Implementation Plan/Work Plan
1. Update the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission will undertake a
thorough planning process, known as the Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy (CEDS), that examines in detail the local conditions of the region and
develops a guide for economic growth within the region. The purpose of the CEDS
is to establish a process that will create jobs, foster a more stable and diversified
economy, and improve the quality of life in the district. It will provide a mechanism
for coordinating the efforts of individuals, organizations, and local governments
and private industry concerned with economic development. The updated CEDS
that the Commission will develop during the process will include sections on the
following: description of the problems, needs, potentials, and resources of the
District; the District’s visions and goals; the strategic direction for an action plan;
established priority programs and projects for implementation; and outline of the
performance standards for the annual evaluation and update of the process. The
submission of this annual document is a prerequisite for designation of the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District as an Economic Development District under
the U. S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration and to
qualify for EDA assistance under its public works, economic adjustment and
planning programs.
2. Conduct CEDS Committee Meetings
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission conducts four CEDS
Committee meetings each year or as needed.
2
Implementation Plan/Work Plan
1. Update the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
The Cumberland Plateau Plan
n will undertake a
g District Commi
thorough planning process, known as the Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy (CEDS), that examines in detail the local conditions of the region and
develops a guide for economic growth within the region. The purpose of the CEDS
is to establish a process that will create jobs, foster a more stable and diversified
economy, and improve the quality of life in the district. It will provide a mechanism
for coor
ating the efforts of individuals, organizations, and local governments
and private industry concerned with economic development. The updated CEDS
that the Commission will develop during the process will include sections on the
following: description of the problems, needs, potentials, and resources of the
District; the District’s visions and goals; the strategic direction for an action plan;
established priority programs and projects for implementation; and outline of the
performance standards for the annual evaluation and update of the process. The
submission of this annual document is a prerequisite for designation of the
Cumberland Plateau Planning District as an Economic Development District under
the U. S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration and to
qualify for EDA assistance under its public works, economic adjustment and
planning programs.
Conduct CEDS Committee Meetings
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission conducts four CEDS
Committee meetings each year or as needed.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 92
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 93
3. Update Economic Development Priority Project Profiles for CEDS
An important aspect of the Commission’s work is long range planning for
economic development projects. Part of this effort is the updating of priority
project profiles on potential economic development projects. Localities will be asked
during the CEDS process to submit a project profile of their top priority projects.
The ranking for each project within the CEDS will be determined based upon such
factors as economic need of the locality, feasibility, degree of planning, cost
effectiveness, and environmental concerns.
As always, conditions may change within a locality and the readiness of the
project may change during the year. Therefore, the ranking of the projects may
also change during the course of the year.
4. Assist in the Management and Implementation of Current VCDBG Projects
The Commission has been very successful in the past several years in assisting
Cumberland Plateau Planning District localities in securing Virginia Community
Development Block Grant (VCDBG) assistance for new development projects.
Presently, the Commission is assisting eight (8) localities in the planning,
implementation and/or management of 10 (ten) VCDBG construction projects. These
localities include the Towns of Lebanon, Tazewell, Cleveland, Honaker and Haysi, and
Dickenson, Tazewell and Buchanan Counties. All of these projects are helping to
develop needed community infrastructure improving the quality of life for the project’s
area residents. The Commission contracts to assist and advise these localities on
matters relating to the implementation and management of these projects.
3. Update Economic Development Priority Project Profiles for CEDS
An important aspect of the Commission’s work
long range planning for
economic development projects. Part of this effort is the updating of priority
project profiles on potential economic development projects. Localities will be asked
during the CEDS process to submit a project profile of their top prior
projects.
The ranking for each project within the CEDS will be determined based upon such
factors as economic need of the locality, feasibility, degree of planning, cost
effectiveness, and environmental concerns.
As always, conditions may change within a locality and the readiness of the
project may change during the year. Therefore, the ranking of the projects may
also change during the course of the year.
4. Assist in the Management and Implementation of Current VCDBG Projects
‘The Commission has been very successful in the past several years in assisting
Cumberland Plateau Planning District localities in securing Virginia Community
Development Block Grant (VCDBG) assistance for new development projects.
Presently, the Commission is assisting eight (8) localities in the planning,
plementation and/or management of 10 (ten) VCDBG construction projects. These
localities include the Towns of Lebanon, Tazewell, Cleveland, Honaker and Haysi, and
Dickenson, Tazewell and Buchanan Counties. All of these projects are helping to
develop needed community infrastructure improving the quality of life for the project’s
area residents. The Commission contracts to assist and advise these localities on
matters relating to the implementation and management of these projects.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 93
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 94
5. Assist in the Development of New VCDBG Projects
Presently, the Commission is assisting the Towns of Lebanon and Tazewell
in planning for downtown revitalization projects, the Town of Pocahontas in
developing a major water system project, Tazewell County with an adult daycare
facility project, and Buchanan County in developing one 2016 CDBG water project.
The Commission is also assisting several localities in the development of
other much needed projects that may be more suited to other funding programs
such as ARC, VDH, DEQ, VDOT, RD, VCEDA and the Tobacco Commission.
Most successful CDBG projects require funding from other sources. These include:
VCEDA – Coalfields Regional Mega-Site Project; Buchanan County – Hurley Phase
7 Water Project and Southern Gap Development Project; Tazewell County –
Bluestone Business and Technology Park; Dickenson County-Red Onion Industrial
Park and George’s Fork Sewer Project; Russell County-Tunnel Road Water
Project; Town of Honaker Heritage Center Project, Town of Haysi Trails Center
Project, Cleveland Water System Equipment Project, Cleveland Campground and
River Trail Project and Haysi Riverfront Trail Project.
The Commission will continue to assist localities in the development of new
CDBG projects under this program.
6. Assist in the Development of New EDA Projects
The Commission continues to encourage localities in possible use of Economic
Development Administration programs for their projects which are listed within the
CEDS Priority Project Listing. The Commission will continue to work with
localities to develop projects to successfully compete for EDA funding.
5.
Assist in the Development of New VCDBG Projects
Presently, the Commission is assisting the Towns of Lebanon and Tazewell
in planning for downtown revitalization projects, the Town of Pocahontas in
developing a major water system project, Tazewell County with an adult daycare
facility project, and Buchanan County in developing one 2016 CDBG water project.
The Commission is also assisting several localities in the development of
other much needed projects that may be more suited to other funding programs
such as ARC, VDH, DEQ, VDOT, RD, VCEDA and the Tobacco Commission.
Most successful CDBG projects require funding from other sources. These include:
VCEDA — Coalfields Regional Mega-Site Project; Buchanan County — Hurley Phase
7 Water Project and Southern Gap Development Project; Tazewell County —
Bluestone Business and Technology Park; Dickenson County-Red Onion Industrial
Park and George’s Fork Sewer Project; Russell County-Tunnel Road Water
Project; Town of Honaker Heritage Center Project, Town of Haysi Trails Center
Project, Cleveland Water System Equipment Project, Cleveland Campground and
River Trail Project and Haysi Riverfront Trail Project.
The Commission will continue to assist localities in the development of new
CDBG projects under this progra
6. Assist in the Development of New EDA Projects
The Commission continues to encourage localities in possible use of Eeonomic
Development Administration programs for their projects which are listed within the
CEDS Prio:
Project Listing. The Commission will continue to work with
localities to develop projects to successfully compete for EDA funding.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 94
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 95
The Commission is also working on five (5) major economic development
initiatives: Coalfields Regional Mega-Site Project; Tazewell County/Richlands
Aquaculture Project; Southern Gap Industrial Park and Multi-Use Development
Project in Buchanan County; the Dickenson County Red Onion Industrial Park
Project in Dickenson County; and The Bluestone Regional Business and Technology
Center in Tazewell County.
7. Coordinate and Assist in the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Rural
Transportation Planning Program
The Intermodal Surface Efficiency Act of 1991 made it possible for the rural
localities of the Cumberland Plateau Planning District to develop a regional
transportation planning program. Through funding made available from the State
of Virginia, the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission continues to
participate in a statewide program to assist the rural localities with their
transportation programs and needs. A Rural Transportation Task Force
Committee was developed to identify areas of concern within the District relating to
transportation. Each task force representative brings to the group their field of
expertise as a transportation service provider, consumer, planner, and/or
implementer. A rural Transportation Planning Program Scope of Work is
developed annually for the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. The
Commission will coordinate and assist in the implementation of this program and
the scope of work.
The Commission is also working on five (5) major economic development
initiatives: Coalfields Regional Mega-Site Project; Tazewell County/Richlands
Aquaculture Project; Southern Gap Industrial Park and Multi-Use Development
Project in Buchanan County; the Dickenson County Red Onion Industrial Park
Project in Dickenson County; and The Bluestone Regional Business and Technology
Center in Tazewell County.
1. Coordinate and Assist in the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Rural
‘ansportation Planning Program
The Intermodal Surface Efficiency Act of 1991 made it possible for the rural
localities of the Cumberland Plateau Planning District to develop a regional
transportation planning program. Through funding made available from the State
of Virginia, the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission continues to
participate in a statewide program to assist the rural localities with their
transportation programs and needs. A Rural Transportation Task Force
Committee was developed to identify areas of concern within the District relating to
transportation, Each task force representative brings to the group their field of
expertise as a transportation service provider, consumer, planner, and/or
implementer. A rural Transportation Planning Program Scope of Work is
developed annually for the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. The
Commission will coordinate and assist in the implementation of this program and
the scope of work.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 95
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 96
8. Assist in the Development, Management, and/or Implementation of
Projects Through Additional Programs
The Commission is always interested in the development of projects through
other programs that are related to issues of concern by member jurisdictions. This
work element will/may include related programs to housing and community
development (i.e., Rural Development, ARC, DCR and Abandoned Mined Land
Water Program), and regional planning (Enterprise Zones, Solid Waste, Workforce,
and the Cumberland Plateau Revolving Loan Fund). This work element will/may
also include the development and management of projects funded through
individual localities of the District (Comprehensive Plans, Zoning Plans and
redistricting).
9. Coordinate and Support Agencies in the Implementation of Various
Strategic Planning Initiatives
During the 1995 session of the Virginia General Assembly, legislative
reform of the Virginia Area Development Act was passed under the title of the
“Regional Cooperation Act” (RCA). The goal of RCA is to strengthen the Virginia
Planning District Commission system. The Cumberland Plateau Planning District
Commission will coordinate and support State agencies in the implementation of the
RCA and other programs approved in the future.
10. Provide Economic and Demographic Information and/or Technical
Assistance to Public and Private Sector
The Commission will continue to serve as State Data Center and Collect and
maintain a significant body of statistical data on economics and demographics,
10.
Assist in the Development, Management, and/or Implementation of
Projects Through Additional Programs
The Commission is always interested in the development of projects through
other programs that are related to issues of concern by member jurisdictions. This
work element will/may include related programs to housing and community
development (i.e., Rural Development, ARC, DCR and Abandoned Mined Land
Water Program), and regional planning (Enterprise Zones, Solid Waste, Workforce,
and the Cumberland Plateau Revolving Loan Fund). This work element will/may
also include the development and management of projects funded through
individual localities of the Dist (Comprehensive Plans, Zoning Plans and
redistricting).
Coordinate and Support Agencies in the Implementation of Various
During the 1995 session of the Virginia General Assembly, legislative
reform of the Virginia Area Development Act was passed under the title of the
“Regional Cooperation Act” (RCA). The goal of RCA is to strengthen the Virginia
Planning District Commission system. The Cumberland Plateau Planning District
Commission will coordinate and support State agencies in the implementation of the
RCA and other programs approved in the future.
Provide Economic and Demographic Information and/or Technical
Assistance to Public and Private Sector
The Commission will continue to serve as State Data Center and Collect and
maintain a significant body of statistical data on economics and demographics,
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 96
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 97
assorted technical information on land use and development, and mapping products
of various description. Specific types of material available from the Commission will
include U.S. Bureau of the Census statistics, U.S. Geological Survey map products,
and U.S. Emergency Management Flood Hazard Maps.
assorted technical information on land use and development, and mapping products
of various description. Specific types of material available from the Commission will
include U.S. Bureau of the Census statistics, U.S. Geological Survey map products,
and U.S. Emergency Management Flood Hazard Maps.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 97
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 98
7. PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission staff, in
collaboration with the CEDS Committee, local governments and agencies, has
developed an on-going monitoring process that will result in a periodic evaluation of
the District’s economy, as well as a status report on the Planning District’s
programs and activities as set forth in its annual Scope of Work and the CEDS
Action Plan. This monitoring program will quantify progress toward achieving the
goals outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy based on
number of jobs created, number of business locations and investments, numbers of
jobs retained, amount of private sector investment, and significant changes in the
region’s economy.
This process will rely on the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
Authority, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Virginia
Employment Commission, our local governments and IDA’s and other agencies
and organizations that track the effects of existing as well as new economic
activities, and determine which area of our economy and development program
might require additional attention.
Updates on progress being made on the Action Plan’s top priority projects
will be given at CEDS Committee meetings and PDC Board of Directors by staff.
Updates on the lower ranked priority one projects will be given every six (6)
months, and priority two projects will be updated annually. Should progress on any
project be behind schedule, staff assignments will be given to identify problems and
determine any alternative actions required to get the project back on schedule. In
7. PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission staff, in
collaboration with the CEDS Committee, local governments and agencies, has
developed an on-going monitoring process that will result in a periodic evaluation of
the District's economy, as well as a status report on the Planning District’s
programs and activities as set forth in its annual Scope of Work and the CEDS
Action Plan. This monitoring program will quantify progress toward achieving the
goals outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy based on
number of jobs created, number of business locations and investments, numbers of
jobs retained, amount of private sector investment, and significant changes in the
region’s economy.
This process will rely on the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development
Authority, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Virginia
Employment Commission, our local governments and IDA’s and other agencies
and organizations that track the effects of existing as well as new economic
activities, and determine which area of our economy and development program
might require additional attention.
Updates on progress being made on the Action Plan’s top priority projects
will be given at CEDS Committee meetings and PDC Board of Directors by staff.
Updates on the lower ranked priority one projects will be given every six (6)
months, and priority two projects will be updated annually. Should progress on any
project be behind schedule, staff assignments will be given to identify problems and
determine any alternative actions required to get the project back on schedule, In
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 98
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 99
some cases, dramatic changes in project activities may require major project
schedule modification.
some cases, dramatic changes in project activities may require major project
schedule modification.
Cumberland Plateau PDC 2018 Profile Page 99
3. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
A. Goals
/
6. ACTION PLAN
A. Development Strategy
7. PERFORMANCE MEASURES
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