Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Local leaders gathered at Hidden Valley Country Club on Thursday, Oct. 17, for the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Advocacy Breakfast series, featuring “Pathways to Progress.” The event provided a platform for discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping the region’s future, including education, transportation, housing and economic development.
Phil North, chairman of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors, began the conversation by highlighting key challenges like inflation, broadband access, and transportation infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of transportation as a driver of economic growth, noting that $8 million in state and federal funding had been allocated to address these needs. North stressed the urgency of ongoing projects, such as the 419/220 corridor construction, and the importance of affordable housing to support the local workforce, referencing Wells Fargo’s need to staff 1,200 jobs.
Salem Mayor Renee Turk provided an update on the Valleydale project, with the first of three buildings set to be completed by the end of November. She also touched on the challenges facing Salem, including housing shortages and the ongoing lawsuits related to HopeTree Family Services. Turk highlighted the recent growth of businesses in the area, such as STS and Wabtech, which are bringing new jobs to Salem.
Economic development director Tommy Miller discussed Salem’s focus on supporting existing businesses and revitalizing downtown. He emphasized the potential for housing development on the upper floors of downtown buildings and encouraged retailers to embrace Roanoke College football by catering to fans and offering memorabilia.
Education was also a key theme of the event. Roanoke County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ken Nicely spoke about the district’s new Career and Technical Education (CTE) facility and plans to expand programs, including those in the biomedical field. Nicely praised the partnership between local businesses and the school system, particularly through the Registered Apprenticeship program.
Curtis Hicks, superintendent of Salem City Schools, shared updates on the Virginia West Community College coalition and efforts to expand opportunities in machinery, HVAC, and medical science. He also highlighted the presence of school resource officers in every school, describing them as crucial to fostering a safe and supportive environment.
Roanoke County Administrator Richard Caywood focused on the county’s growth and job creation, expressing pride in the Tanglewood Mall revitalization project. Caywood noted that attracting businesses would create opportunities to lower taxes, and he identified several areas of development potential, including the Hollins area, Plantation Road corridor, and Oak Grove.
The event also featured a discussion on public engagement, led by Madeline Hanlon, assistant to the Roanoke County administrator. Hanlon spoke about efforts to connect with residents through community meetings and social media, as well as the importance of the county’s ongoing Roanoke 200 plan.
In closing, leaders echoed the importance of local support. Mayor Turk and Miller both emphasized the need to “shop local” as a means of strengthening the community. Looking ahead, North pointed to the need for a mindset shift around affordable housing and development, calling for more projects to keep residents in the region.
Courtesy of Amanda Livingston
