Strategic Planning for Growth
Lynch, Benham, and Cumberland, Kentucky
RGI has spearheaded a series of community discussions and grant writing initiatives in the Tri-Cities of Lynch, Benham, and Cumberland, Kentucky. Nestled in the heart of Appalachia, these communities are rich in history and natural beauty but have faced significant economic challenges following the decline of the coal industry, which once served as their economic backbone.
The Tri-Cities region has faced persistent socio-economic challenges, largely driven by population decline following the departure of the coal mines that once served as the economic backbone of these communities. In Lynch, the U.S. Coal & Coke Company, a subsidiary of U.S. Steel, established what was once the largest coal camp in the world. Similarly, International Harvester developed the town of Benham to support its mining operations. These companies provided employment and stability for decades, but as the coal industry declined in the 1960s and 1970s, these towns experienced significant economic downturns, leading to aging infrastructure and population decline. Despite these hurdles, the local residents remain deeply committed to revitalizing their communities and preserving their rich cultural heritage.
RGI's efforts in this area have focused on developing strategies to reverse population decline, increase available housing, enhance workforce participation, and revitalize downtown areas. By collaborating closely with local leaders, public and private sectors, and non-profits, RGI aims to infuse new growth into these communities and support them in securing critical grant funding. These initiatives are not just about overcoming challenges but also about leveraging the region’s strengths to build a sustainable and thriving future for the Tri-Cities.
McCreary County, Kentucky
In August 2023, RGI led a strategic planning exercise in McCreary County, Kentucky, a region deep in Appalachia known for its picturesque landscapes and significant economic challenges, holding the distinction of being among the most economically distressed counties in the US. Historically reliant on timber and coal, McCreary County has faced persistent socio-economic issues, including enduring poverty, outmigration, opioids, and disability dependency, following the decline of these industries.
The initiative focused on developing a long-term economic development strategy addressing educational gaps, healthcare, crime, housing, and downtown revitalization. Collaborating with local public sectors, private enterprises, and non-profits, the initiative aimed to enhance economic sustainability and workforce participation. McCreary County is now actively pursuing multiple grant opportunities to complete small area plans with the support of RGI, striving to transform into a model for rural development.
Digital Workforce 360° Economic Impact Study
Botetourt County, Virginia
Recognizing the shift in work dynamics, Botetourt County enlisted RGI to understand and devise strategies to harness the economic potential of its nearly 2,000 remote professionals who work for firms and organizations outside the county. RGI conducted asset mapping and thorough analysis, including interviews, listening sessions, and detailed assessments of worker preferences.
This RGI-led study, which surveyed over 400 remote workers in the county, revealed that these professionals earn an average income of $93,000, collectively contributing around $160 million annually to the local economy, making them the county's third-largest industry. Botetourt County's appeal to remote workers lies in its reliable high-speed internet and attractive rural setting. These individuals represent a significant and diverse economic powerhouse exceeding 10% of the workforce and spread across 200+ companies and 20+ sectors worldwide. Lessons from this project translate into opportunity across rural America.
Digital Workforce 360° - Bolstering Local Workforce
Town of Cheraw, South Carolina
Almost immediately we've taken the lessons learned in Botetourt County, Virginia deep into rural South Carolina to a place often hailed as the "Prettiest Town in Dixie." As one of South Carolina’s oldest inland towns, founded in ~1740, Cheraw combines a rich history of agriculture, a more recent history of manufacturing, all combined with abundant outdoor activities. This makes it a perfect setting for both living and working.
The RGI is currently engaged with Cheraw on a "Digital Workforce 360°”, targeting the challenges of rural outmigration through proactive efforts to attract and retain residents.
Additionally, our engagement there includes a burgeoning partnership with Northeastern Technical College (NETC), focusing on aligning educational programs with local workforce needs at younger ages, much like successful models in other states. These initiatives combined aim to revitalize Cheraw by attracting and retaining a skilled workforce and reversing the past trend of population decline, and countering future declines as projected by recent census data.
Historical Preservation & Adaptive Reuse
City of Lynch, Kentucky
The Rural Growth Initiative (RGI) is proud to highlight our collaboration with the City of Lynch, Kentucky, and the Tri-City Heritage Development Corporation in their joint efforts to preserve the town's historic school buildings. This partnership demonstrates how innovative planning and strategic alliances can drive economic development while honoring historical legacies. Upon learning about our team's efforts in the Eastern Kentucky region, Lynch turned to RGI to develop a comprehensive, adaptive reuse plan. Our team, in collaboration with local community leaders, developed a visionary strategy that reimagines the school building as an open-concept commercial space, preserving its architectural integrity and honoring the wishes of community members while creating a unique space tailored to attract the distilling industry.
Program Support for Economic Development
Municipal Association of South Carolina - Main Street Program
In partnership with Main Street South Carolina and the Municipal Association of South Carolina (MASC), RGI proudly led the creation of their 40th Anniversary Annual Report. This ambitious project went beyond just a report; we delved deep into economic impact data from 20 communities, conducted insightful interviews, and brought it all together with compelling research, design, and writing to celebrate their milestone.
In a separate project, RGI supported MASC’s WeShopSC initiative, aimed at bolstering the online presence for small businesses on Main Street across the state.
Our team conducted a meticulous analysis of over 400 businesses, interviewed small business owners on challenges, and assessed digital maturity, online capabilities, and digital equity. Through strategic guidance, advice, and grant writing support, we helped shape a new program that empowers local businesses to thrive in the digital era for years to come.
