Top Ten Posts of 2019

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A lot of exciting things happened in Virginia’s New River Valley in 2019! Here are the top ten posts from the year. The following posts had the most page views online.

10.Virginia’s New River Valley Claims Top Trending Mountain Destinations

Two counties in the NRV were selected as the “Top Trending Virginia Mountain Destinations 2019” by Blue Ridge Country Magazine.

9.Blacksburg Mountain Bike Skills Park Now Under Construction

On February 18, Lynchburg-based Native Landworks began construction on the Blacksburg Rotary Mountain Bike Skills Park located on the back four acres of Brush Mountain, off Meadowbrook Drive. The park is expected to be finished by mid-April.

8.1901 Group Officially Breaks Ground on Blacksburg Expansion

The VTCRC will be building 1901 Group’s 45,000 square foot EITOC to provide a state-of-the-art Operations Center to support 1901 Group’s continued growth of cloud, cybersecurity, and managed services business.

7. Blacksburg Named Top Ten Safest College Town

SafeWise names Blacksburg ninth safest college town in America.

6.Pulaski Has 8th Lowest Cost of Living in Virginia

Pulaski comes in with the 8th lowest Cost of Living Index (COLI) at 86 in the state of Virginia.

5.Volvo Group to Create 777 New Jobs in Pulaski County Expansion

Governor Ralph Northam today announced that the Volvo Group will invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America New River Valley (NRV) assembly operation in Pulaski County.

4.NRV to Be Home of First Commercial Drone Deliveries in US

Christiansburg is the first town in the U.S. where residents can have drone deliveries to their homes.

Drone Deliveries

3.Blacksburg Has the Shortest Commute in VA

The numbers are in and according to Business Insider, Blacksburg has the shortest commute time in Virginia. The average commute in Blacksburg is 13.9 minutes.

2.The Palisades Wins Restaurateur of the Year Award

Shaena Muldoon, owner and manager of The Palisades, received the Jim Wordsworth Award for Restaurateur of the Year from the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association (VRLTA).

1.Christiansburg is 2nd Best City to Live in Virginia

Christiansburg is ranked as the second best city to live in Virginia by creditdonkey.com.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Downtown Blacksburg Holiday Parade Concert

NRV Holiday Bucketlist

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New River Valley, VA – Tis’ the season in the New River Valley. The holidays are always a great time to explore the region and participate in all of the festivities going on. Whether you want to attend a tree lighting ceremony or just drink some hot cocoa outside, the NRV has something for everyone!

1. Go to a Christmas Parade
Pulaski Aglow

– December 5th
Rich Creek Christmas Parade
– December 5th
Blacksburg Christmas Parade
– December 6th
Radford Parade
– December 6th
Pembroke Christmas Parade
– December 7th
Floyd County Christmas Parade
– December 8th
Town of Christiansburg Christmas Parade
– December 13th

2. Attend a tree lighting ceremony
Tree Lighting at Radford Public Library

– December 3rd
Winter Lights Festival in Blacksburg
– December 6th
Christmas at the Market in Christiansburg
– December 13th

3. Look at holiday lights in Randolph Park

4. Check out the Festival of Trees

5. Drink hot chocolate at A Very Narrows Christmas

6. Watch a holiday movie at The Lyric theater

7. See “The Nutcracker” live

site selection; top metro

Virginia’s New River Valley Top 10 Metro for Site Selection

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New River Valley, VA – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford metropolitan statistical area, known locally as the New River Valley, has been named a “Top Metro” for 2018 by Site Selection magazine. The 2018 rankings were split into three Top 10 lists based on population, including less than 200,000, 200,000 to 1 million, and over 1 million. Among metropolitan areas with populations less than 200,000, the NRV ranked No. 10 (tie) nationally with six new or expanding corporate facility announcements in 2018. The NRV has consistently held the 10th spot for the past two years. This past year in the New River Valley, six companies have announced projects that are investing a total of $405,702,500 million and creating 1,490 jobs. Published by Conway Inc., Site Selection delivers expansion planning information to over 48,700 readers including corporate executives, site selection consultants, and real estate professionals. The annual “Top Metros” rankings appeared in the March 2019 issue. In order to be considered in Conway Project Database, projects have to meet specific requirements. New construction must meet one or more of the following qualifying criteria:
  • 20 or more new jobs created
  • 20,000 sq. ft. or more
  • $1,000,000 or more investment
Office and/or industrial leases must have an investment of at least $1 million plus add 20 jobs or at least 20,000 sq. ft. of new space. Project also must fall into one of the following categories:
  • Manufacturing
  • Call Center
  • Headquarters
  • Data Center
  • Distribution Warehouse
  • Office
  • Research and Development
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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
fall in the nrv

Fall Things to Do in the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Now that the weather outside feels like fall, here’s a list of fun things to do across the New River Valley to embrace the season of Fall. Adventure around the NRV with your friends or family and enjoy everything it has to offer.

Pumpkin Patches & Apple Picking

Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival
Thornspring Pastures Farm Fest
Crows Nest Greenhouse
Apple picking at Doe Creek Farm

Fall Festivals

Pearisburg Scarecrow Festival
Newbern Fall Festival
Draper Village’s Fall Festival
Narrows Annual Fall Festival
Randolph Park Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Radford Highlanders Festival
Smithfield Halloween 2019

Oktoberfest

OktoberFest in Floyd takes place on October 12th at Chantilly Farm. This Oktoberfest Dinner Show provides an evening filled with traditional German music, great food, and brews! Family-friendly fun for all ages.

Halloween-Themed

Haunted House: Slayhouse
Halloween Spooktacular: 3-D Drive-In Movie
Backwoods of Terror
Hexed Haunted Attraction

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Rural Floyd Enjoys the Flash of High Speed Internet

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Floyd County, VA – Citizens Telephone Cooperative is utilizing $10 million in federal funding through Alternative Connect America Cost Model (ACAM), to bring better internet access to the residents of Floyd County.

Citizens Telephone has served Floyd County for over 100 years and has stayed up to date with advances in technology. However, CEO and General Manager Greg Sapp says that “laying of fiber optic cable at 1G speed, one gigabit per second, will far exceed what many are used to, even for larger cities in the area.” Citizens plans to have 60% of the homes in Floyd County connected by the end of the year, with the goal of 97% being connected at the end of 2021. While they are unsure of the future of the ACAM after 2026, Sapp plans to have the work completed well in advance of the funding deadlines.

“So we’ve always been able to support people that are used to being in an urban area, but they needed the technology to connect them. In the past, people have tried to frame us into a little box based on the number of lanes of roads that come in here, but now through fiber and glass, it’s an unlimited connection to the world.” – Lydeanna Martin, Floyd County Community and Economic Development Director

The 1G broadband connections are creating positive outcomes not just for the residents and businesses, but also for the school systems. As a result of the improved wi-fi, Floyd County school district is pursuing a $17-million Collaboration and Career Development Center that will not only support high school students but will also offer evening courses for adults and expand to the elementary school curriculum. Additionally, with the improved connection, Floyd is attracting more individuals from the corporate world who are looking to semi-retire.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Loan Repayment

Student Loan Repayment Program to Attract Graduates to Floyd

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Floyd County, VA – Talent Attraction Program (TAP) enables recent graduates to participate in a loan repayment program if they choose to reside in Floyd County. The purpose of the program is to encourage graduates from 2018 and later to live in the Tobacco Region and replaces the previous 4-year loan forgiveness program. By requiring specific credentials, community involvement, and jobs in fields that are currently experiencing a workforce shortage, TAP can better recruit talent to meet the needs of the community. TAP now provides larger individualized awards that provide up to $12,000 annually, with a minimum of a two-year commitment, and the opportunity for award renewal with the repayment funds maxing at $48,000.
“This is an excellent opportunity for recent college graduates from the region seeking jobs in these fields. It is also a great boost to new or existing businesses in Floyd County in attracting talent.” – Lydeana Martin, Community and Economic Development Director
Within the parameters of the program and specific to Floyd County, recent graduates can work for companies like:
  • Hollingsworth & Vose
  • Citizens Telephone Cooperative
  • Crenshaw Lighting
  • Wall Residences
  • Carilion Clinic
  • Tri Area Health Center
Other eligible work includes teaching in STEM or Career and Technical fields in Floyd County Public Schools, which is in the process of upgrading and reimagining the Floyd County Career and Technical Education Center for the New Economy as the Collaboration & Career Development Center. To read more about TAP and its eligibility requirements, click HERE.
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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
RIDE Solutions

RIDE Solutions Launch in New River Valley

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New River Valley – RIDE Solutions, a grant-funded program, provides alternate transportation options to those living in the greater New River Valley area.

RIDE Solutions is a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Agency “dedicated to expanding the efficiency and life of the roadway network and reducing the environmental impacts – air pollution – of vehicle emissions”. The ultimate goal is to connect individuals and businesses in order to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and support safer roadways. However there are many added benefits to those who participate such as social interaction, better quality of life, and increased job access.

RIDE Solutions

RIDE Solutions provides carpool matching, links to cycling/walking resources, and bus trip planners. Recently they launched a new mobile app which not only helps users better find and communicate with their ride shares but also allows them to receive points for logging their commutes. These points can be cashed in for over 2,000 different rewards at local and national retailers and restaurants. The new app even allows commuters to participate in long-distance, event, and one-time ridematching.

Not only is RIDE Solutions great for the environment, but it also helps you save money. For example, a commuter living in Blacksburg and working in Radford can easily save almost $2,000 each year by carpooling every day. Check out their map HERE to find out who is commuting near you. Plus if you use the app for events, like the upcoming Floyd Fest, you can save on gas and parking making your experience even better.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Floyd Fiber

Floyd to Be Most Connected Rural Community in VA

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Floyd County and Citizens received a Virginia Telecommunication Initiative Grant, which was announced last month. This grant is $348,018 to get high-speed internet to Copper Hill, a village in Floyd County, but that’s not where the connectivity ends.

At the end of the year, 60% of Floyd County will be connected to high-speed internet.

By 2021, 97% of Floyd County will be connected.

Citizens, Floyd Fiber

The gigabit internet Citizens plans to implement over the next 3 years will be about 1,700 miles of fiber-optic cable all across Floyd County.

Plus, Citizens’ internet speed will be about 40 times faster than what the Federal Communications Commission calls high-speed internet.

At the company’s public announcement event, Congressman Morgan Griffith said:

“Right now, in the commonwealth of Virginia, the most modern county is Floyd County. Welcome to gig country.”

For more information about this huge announcement, see coverage by Jacob Demmitt at the Roanoke Times.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Thomas Industrial Fabrication Relocating to Floyd County, Bringing 28 jobs

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April 17, 2019 — Floyd, Virginia: Floyd County today announced that Thomas Industrial Fabrication is moving to Floyd, Virginia. The project will bring 28 full-time jobs to the County, with employees earning about $50,000/year on average, nearly double the average wages of people currently working inside Floyd County ($28,652 according to the Virginia Employment Commission.) The company is buying the former Dreaming Creek property from the Economic Development Authority (EDA) of Floyd County, which acquired it in the closing weeks of 2018.

Thomas Industrial Fabrication is a family business, owned by John Paul and Kelly Thomas and currently operating in Woolwine, Virginia. The couple has lived in Floyd County for over a decade and has family roots in the County.

“My father started the company in 1997, and I stepped into leadership about a decade ago, during the recession. We came out stronger despite the recession and have doubled our workforce in the past 10 years. Our motivation in purchasing this building is to give us the possibility for expansion, as well as to provide stability and create a more organized workplace by having all production under one roof. Floyd is a great fit for us in part because of the strong welding program at Floyd County High School, and the better transportation access.”

The Floyd County of Supervisors loaned the EDA funds to purchase the former Dreaming Creek property in December 2018, which is a 27,000+ SF building on nearly 11 acres in the Floyd Regional Commerce Center. The EDA retains the right to buy the property back at the incentive sales price if the property is to be sold in the next 5 years. The EDA’s purchase allowed the addition of deed restrictions to the property and reservation of access across the property.

Lauren Yoder, Chairman of the Floyd County Board of Supervisors said, “We are excited to welcome Thomas Industrial Fabrication and these good-paying jobs with strong benefits to Floyd County. And the company will add significantly to the County tax base. This underlines the value of strong Career and Technical Education training for our youth and adults. This is very important to employers including the Thomas’. We are delighted to welcome them to Floyd County.”

The new jobs will include welders, machinists, millwrights, fabricators, mechanics, engineers, buyers, foreman, and office support. Eight of the current employees, including the owners, live in Floyd County.

Jon Beegle, Chairman of the Economic Development Authority of Floyd County, added, “This is a great fit for Floyd County. One of our goals is to increase the number of good-paying jobs here, and this is another step in that direction. We have so many citizens with great welding and fabrication skills thanks to the fantastic welding program that Doug Thompson runs at Floyd County High School. John Paul and Kelly Thomas are already valued members of our community, and after 2 years of conversation with them about getting this business to Floyd, we are delighted that it is happening. We are very grateful and excited that they are investing in Floyd, and we look forward to their continued growth and success.”

With this deal and the recent leasing of the last available space at the Floyd Innovation Center, the County and EDA have no more business facilities available for lease or sell. They do have one pre-graded 9-acre site available, and they are developing plans for a new 20,000 SF shell building in the Commerce Center, which will also be dividable. The County is also reaching out to private developers to encourage development of more business and mixed-use spaces.

Media Contact:
Lydeana Martin
Economic Development Director
Floyd County, Virginia
lmartin@Floydcova.org
540-745-9300
Cell 540 267-4083

Thomas Industrial Fabrication is a DBA of Turbo Sales & Fabrication, Inc. solely owned by John Paul and Kelly Thomas

About Floyd County and the Board of Supervisors
Floyd County is located in southwest Virginia along the Blue Ridge Parkway and between Interstates 81 and 77. The County is a dynamic rural community with a population of 15,755. Floyd County is governed by the 5-member Board of Supervisors. The County Administrator is Terri Morris. The Board of Supervisors works closely with the EDA and staff to help businesses locate or expand in Floyd County. www.floydcova.org.

About The Floyd County Economic Development Authority
The Floyd County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is comprised of 7 community volunteers. Floyd County’s Community and Economic Development staff, Lydeana Martin and Tabitha Hodge, serve as staff to the EDA. Together they work to find solutions to improve the local economy by offering programs that support existing businesses, start-up businesses and by attracting new “right-fit” businesses to the community. Learn More: www.yesfloydva.org. To learn more about visiting, see www.VisitFloydVA.com

Virginia Broadband Grants

Floyd & Giles Counties Receive Broadband Grants

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Both Floyd and Giles counties received Virginia Telecommunication Initiative Grants, which Governor Northam announced on Friday, March 29.

Floyd County and Citizens received $348,018 for their Copper Hill project.

Giles County and Gigabeam received $589,444 for their Western Giles County Fixed Wireless Coverage project.

This funding will help extend broadband service to underserved areas.

From Governor Northam’s Office:

More than 15,000 homes, 300 businesses, and community anchors to gain broadband service.

RICHMOND, VA — Governor Ralph Northam announced over $4.9 million in grants through the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) for 11 projects within 12 counties throughout Virginia. The VATI program provides targeted funding to extend service to areas that are presently unserved by any broadband provider.

“In our 21st century economy, broadband connectivity is tied to every facet of our daily lives, from education to business to health care—that’s why making high-speed internet available to every Virginian, in every region of the Commonwealth is a top priority for my administration,” said Governor Northam. “This funding will help to close the digital divide in Virginia by putting in place the necessary infrastructure to expand affordable and reliable broadband service to currently unserved rural communities.”

Governor Northam is committed to ensuring universal access to broadband in the Commonwealth. The Governor’s broadband plan focuses on increasing access to these VATI grants which spur public-private partnerships to expand access.

The VATI program is a state-funded program administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The goal of VATI is to create strong, competitive communities throughout the Commonwealth by preparing those communities to build, utilize, and capitalize on telecommunications infrastructure. DHCD allocated grant funding to eligible applicants to provide “last-mile” services to unserved areas of Virginia. The state budget currently includes $19 million in Fiscal Year 2020 for the VATI program.

“Slow, sporadic or limited broadband services present significant challenges for businesses looking to locate in Virginia’s rural communities,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Through these grants, we are making another step forward towards expanding access to quality broadband internet throughout the Commonwealth.”

Projects were selected through a competitive process evaluating each project for demonstrated need and benefit for the community, applicant readiness and capacity, and the cost and leverage of the proposed project. The level of funding awarded is based on the infrastructure needs in the project areas.

An estimated 15,000 households, and 300 businesses, and community anchors will have broadband service available due to these grant awards, along with the public-private partnership involved in each project. Thirty-one applications requesting more than $10.9 million in funding were received. This year’s funding leverages $9.2 million in local and private sector matching funds.

2019 Virginia Telecommunication Initiative Grants:

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”