New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains
New River Valley, VA – The New River was listed among 13 favorite rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains by the editors of Blue Ridge Country magazine. The editors compared at least 50 rivers throughout the Blue Ridge region and created a list of their 13 favorites.
Here’s how the article describes the New River:
“Despite the name, this river is one of the oldest on the planet. It’s even thought to be more ancient than the Appalachian Mountains upon which it meanders. Unlike most rivers which plot their courses at lower elevations, this one runs on the crests and mountaintop basins. Its cuts and curves have exposed rocks dating back over one billion years, while the river itself is thought to be between 10 million and 360 million years old.”
The New River is an essential part of Virginia’s New River Valley. More than 89 miles of the New River run through the region, and it is one of the NRV’s major outdoor attractions. The river flows through most of the communities in the New River Valley and offers many unique experiences to both residents and visitors alike.
Learn more about Virginia’s New River Valley and the New River here.
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.
NRV Accolades and Awards in 2020
- Pulaski is the #1 most affordable place to live in Virginia according to HomeSnacks.net.
- Pulaski is also the #2 most affordable place to buy a home in Virginia according to SmartAsset.com.
- Blacksburg was ranked among the Top 100 Small Cities/Towns in the U.S. by BestCities.org.
- LendingTree rated the New River Valley as the fourth best metro area for homeownership in Virginia.
- Floyd was voted the Top Tiny Adventure Town for 2020 by readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
- The Cascades was listed among the Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in Virginia by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
- Pete Dye River Course was ranked 19th best golf course in Virginia by the Virginia Golf Ratings Panel.
- The Virginia Chamber of Commerce recognized Harmonia Holdings Group on its 2020 “Fantastic 50” list, a ranking of the 50 fastest-growing companies in Virginia.
- Volvo Trucks North America’s 2019 expansion in Pulaski County was ranked third on a list of top projects in Virginia by Area Development magazine.
- Virginia Tech ranked #25 on the list of top undergraduate schools for entrepreneurship by The Princeton Review and Entrepreneur magazine.
- Exelaration’s was ranked the #3 tech and engineering internship in the U.S. for 2021 by Vault.
- MCPS recognized as a “School Division of Innovation” by Virginia Board of Education for expanding information technology education and opportunities in the K-12 curricula.
- Blacksburg High School was ranked 30th among 386 public high schools in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report.
- Virginia Tech was ranked #3 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
- Radford University was ranked the #33 Southern Regional University by U.S. News and World Report.
- The Princeton Review listed Virginia Tech as the 7th most loved college in the country.
- Conde Nast Traveler listed Virginia Tech among the 50 most beautiful college campuses in America.
Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.
Top Ten Posts of 2020
10. Torc Robotics to Invest $8.5 Million and Create 350 New Jobs in Blacksburg
In August it was announced that Torc Robotics will invest $8.5 million to expand its software development operations in Montgomery County. The company will establish an additional facility at the VT Corporate Research Center and create 350 new jobs.
9. NRV Commerce Park Welcomes Patton Logistics Group
In January it was announced that The Patton Logistics Group will invest $12 million to establish a new logistic and warehousing operation at NRV Commerce Park located in Pulaski County. The project will create 33 new jobs.8. Pete Dye River Course Ranked 19th Best in VA for 2020
The Virginia Golf Ratings Panel ranked the Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech as #19 in a list of the top 50 golf courses in the state. The golf course is well known for its scenic views and 2.5 miles of frontage on the New River.
7. Why Blacksburg, VA is a Best Place to Live
Originally published in 2018, this blog post shared an editorial that Melody Warnick published on Livability about “why she thinks Blacksburg is a special place to live.” Warnick is a freelance writer, author, and Blacksburg local.
6. Kollmorgen Motion Solutions Used in Fight Against COVID-19
Kollmorgen played a critical role in the fight against COVID-19. The company’s motion solutions are being used by manufacturers around the country to make “respirators and other personal protective equipment” as well as other essential items that help diagnose and treat the virus.
5. 10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer
Blog readers were clearly looking for fun and safe things to do this summer around the New River Valley. Originally published in 2018, this blog post lists ten unique spots to visit throughout the region.
4. H&V Delivering Critical Materials in the Fight Against COVID-19
Hollingsworth & Vose was busy throughout 2020 “making filtration material that is a critical component in Respiratory Protection Equipment being used to fight the virus.” They continued to increase their production throughout the year to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response.
3. Pulaski is the Most Affordable Place to Live in VA
The town of Pulaski was named the cheapest place to live in Virginia for the second year in a row by HomeSnacks.net. In particular, “housing in Pulaski is [very affordable] when taken as a proportion of income, whether you’re renting or buying.”
2. Virginia Tech Ranked 7th Most Loved College by The Princeton Review
The Princeton Review ranked Virginia Tech the 7th most loved college for 2021. VT also ranked first for best counseling services, eighth for best campus food, and fifteenth for town-gown relations are great.
1. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America
Niche.com ranked Virginia Tech third in their list of 2020 Best College Campuses. Rankings were “based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education.”
Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.
NRV Manufacturers Persevere Through Pandemic, Sector Outlook Positive
New River Valley, VA – In September 2020, Onward New River Valley conducted a survey of manufacturing companies in Virginia’s New River Valley. The goal of the Industry Competitiveness Survey was to better understand how local manufacturing companies were operating and adapting in the wake of COVID-19. The survey was intended to identify common challenges among local companies and expose best practices that would support the overall competitiveness and continued growth of the local manufacturing industry.
Survey responses were collected during a two-week period in September 2020. The survey was sent to 35 manufacturers in Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) with 48% responding. The survey results, along with individual interviews, revealed several insights about the manufacturing industry in the region; these insights are described below.
Operating Status
Overall, manufacturers in the NRV have persevered through the COVID-19 pandemic with varying impacts on their operations. The vast majority (76%) of respondents reported operating at or above pre-pandemic capacity, while 24% indicated operating at about half capacity. Roughly half of respondents indicated a decrease in their sales pipeline (43%) and overall revenue (52%).
Survey respondents seemed to signal that their supply chains had only been moderately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Less than one-third of respondents reported increased costs for either inputs/raw materials (29%) or freight (27%). Almost half of respondents reported experiencing an increase in supplier lead times (48%) and a reduction in the availability of inputs/raw materials (43%).
However, these changes in the supply chain do not seem to be affecting production levels for NRV manufacturers. Two-thirds (66%) of respondents reported stable or increasing production levels.
Employment
Employment through manufacturing companies in the NRV has remained mostly stable during the pandemic. The majority (62%) of respondents said their number of employees remained the same or increased since the beginning of the pandemic. Of the 38% of respondents that reported a reduction in employees (most indicating a slight reduction) since the beginning of the pandemic, the majority (63%) anticipated rehiring eliminated positions within a year of the survey date.
Over half (62%) of respondents reported having unfilled job openings. The types of unfilled positions varied among respondents, but a need for both production workers and engineers was a consistent theme. There is clearly a continuing need for talent recruitment and retention efforts across the manufacturing industry in NRV.
Health & Safety Concerns
In late September, over three-fourths of respondents indicated that at least 90% of their employees were physically working on-site. With most employees in the NRV manufacturing industry working in person amid the pandemic, it is no surprise that a large majority (81%) of respondents reported that health and safety was one of their current top three concerns for their business. Manufacturers have devoted significant attention to implementing new public health policies and technologies to keep their employees safe and their operations running during the pandemic.
NRV manufacturers have increased the number of employees that are working remotely to help mitigate these health and safety concerns. Pre-pandemic, only one respondent (5 ) reported having more than 5% of their employees working remotely, which increased to 62% of respondents by late September. This increase in remote work for some employees could be designed to offset the increased needs for physical space to comply with regulations and distancing requirements. One survey respondent stated that “physical distancing mandates are only feasible with a partial remote workforce.”
Overall Industry Outlook
Manufacturing leaders signaled an overall positive outlook for the coming year. Almost three-fourths (71%) of respondents anticipated that the remaining duration of COVID-19 impacts on their business would resolve within one year from the survey date.
Respondents were asked to give their overall outlook on the status of their company over the next 6-12 months. The vast majority (90%) of respondents reported that they had a steady or positive outlook for their company during that time period.
Leaders were also asked to forecast how many employees they anticipated having within six months to one year. Almost two-thirds (62%) of respondents expected a modest or significant increase in employment levels within a year, with no one anticipating a reduction in employees.
Learn more about the survey and read a final report of the results here.
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.
NRV Tech Companies Shift to Remote Work During Pandemic, Sector Outlook Strong
New River Valley, VA – In September 2020, Onward New River Valley conducted a survey of technology companies in Virginia’s New River Valley. The goal of the Industry Competitiveness Survey was to better understand how local information technology companies were operating and adapting in the wake of COVID-19. The survey was intended to identify common challenges among local companies and expose best practices that would support the overall competitiveness and continued growth of the local tech sector.
Survey responses were collected during a two-week period in September 2020. The survey was sent to 28 information technology companies in Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) with 71% responding. The survey results revealed several insights about the tech sector in the region; these insights are described below.
Operating Status
Overall, tech companies have remained mostly stable in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. When respondents were asked to evaluate the current operating status of their companies, only 12% reported that their business had shrunk since the pandemic began. The vast majority (88%) indicated that their business had stayed about the same (50%) or even grown (38%).
Most (58%) respondents reported stable or increasing revenue compared to pre-pandemic, but over half (55%) of respondents reported a decrease in their sales pipeline. Consequently, it’s no surprise that a majority (63%) of respondents ranked marketing as one of their current top three concerns with the decrease in sales pipeline that tech companies are reporting.
Several respondents reported that lead generation is a current challenge due to the pandemic. One person wrote, “I feel that there is some lack of quality in our sales pipeline now that we’ve shifted all of our client meetings remote,” while another stated, “finding new ways to engage prospective clients without tradeshows and travel is a top priority.” Marketing and selling in a remote environment are clear challenges that tech companies in the NRV are facing and will continue to face in the near future.
Employment
Employment through tech companies in the NRV has remained stable despite COVID-19. Most (63%) of respondents said their number of employees has remained the same since the beginning of the pandemic. Twelve percent of respondents did report a reduction in employee levels, but two-thirds (67%) of them anticipate rehiring eliminated positions within a year.
Over a quarter (25%) of respondents indicated they had increased employment during the pandemic, reporting either a slight (17%) or substantial (8%) increase. Furthermore, over one-third (38%) of respondents said that they currently have unfilled job openings. Respondents reported that the most common hard to fill positions are software engineers, account executives, and production schedulers. There is clearly a continuing need for talent recruitment and retention efforts across the tech sector in the NRV.
Remote Work Trends
The survey revealed that COVID-19 has caused local tech companies to shift most of their workforce to remote work. Prior to the pandemic, three-fourths (75%) of survey respondents reported that less than 20% of their workforce worked remotely. In contrast, two-thirds (67%) of respondents reported that more than 81% of their employees were remote in late September. Respondents did indicate a slight decrease in the percentage of employees working remotely from July to September, signaling some tech workers were returning to the office.
Several tech leaders indicated that having a higher portion of their employees work remotely may persist even after the pandemic is over. One respondent stated that their company would have a “50% decrease in physical space needs” due to the increase in remote work, while another said, “we definitely value having a physical location and will keep it, but this only continues to fuel our ability to have employees located anywhere.”
Almost half (46%) of respondents reported offering incentives for employees to work from home. Helping employees set up their home offices, whether through transferring existing equipment home or purchasing new equipment for employees, was one of the most frequently mentioned incentives. Other common incentives included providing stipends or reimbursements to run employees’ home offices and upgrading employees’ home internet service.
Overall Outlook
Tech leaders signaled an overall strong outlook for the coming year. Within the next twelve months, the vast majority (88%) of respondents reported that they had a steady or positive outlook for their company. Over three-fourths (79%) of respondents anticipated that the remaining duration of COVID-19 impacts on their business would resolve within one year from the survey date.
Leaders were also asked to forecast how many employees they anticipated having within six months to one year. Within six months, over half (54%) of respondents anticipated that their employment numbers would increase. Within the next year, three-fourths (75%) anticipated a modest (58%) or significant (17%) increase in employment. Only 4% of respondents expected to reduce employment within the next year.
Learn more about the survey and read a final report of the results here.
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.
Cascades Among Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in Virginia
Giles County, VA – The Cascades National Recreation Trail was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
Here’s what the Virginia is for Lovers blog has to say about the Cascades:
“Cascade Falls Trail in Pembroke, Virginia, offers one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state, if not the entire East Coast.”
Cascade Falls is a beautiful hike no matter the season. Read more about hiking the Cascades here and see the Top 5 scenic hikes in Virginia for families here.
Learn more about the wide variety of outdoor amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley here.
Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities here.
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.
Cascades Among Top 5 Scenic Family Hikes in VirginiaNRV Business Continuity Team Available for COVID-19 Response
New River Valley, VA – The New River Valley Regional Commission, working in coordination with the New River Health District and the NRV Public Health Task Force, is pleased to make available the NRV Business Continuity Team (BCT), a new resource for businesses impacted by COVID-19. The BCT is available at no cost to help advise businesses navigate questions about COVID-19 at their workplace. More information about the BCT can be found here or by calling 540-639-9313 and asking for the Business Continuity Team.
Services available include:
- Guidance for operating in a COVID environment
- Guidance if there is a suspected case or a known positive case
- Development of a Business Continuity Plan
- Access to a pool of funds on a cost-shared reimbursement* basis to help pay for on-site cleaning; public relations expertise; legal advisement for human resource matters; website support for pertinent messaging. *Business continuity plan must be executed to receive cost-shared reimbursement for services.
- Coordination of testing, if deemed necessary
NRV Business Continuity Team Contacts:
Melanie Morris, Program Manager, mmorris@nrvrc.org, 540-639-9313 x248
Ashley Briggs, Public Health Director, abriggs@nrvrc.org, 540-639-9313 x25
Funding for the NRV Business Continuity Team is being provided by GO Virginia, NRV local government CARES Act appropriations and Community Development Block Grant funds. This resource is limited to businesses located in the counties of Montgomery, Pulaski, Floyd, Giles and the city of Radford.
Be committed. Be well.
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.
Lesser Known NRV Hiking Trails Featured in The Roanoke Times
New River Valley, VA – Want to escape outdoors for a hike during the COVID-19 pandemic? The Roanoke Times recently featured an article on lesser known hiking trails in Virginia’s New River Valley.
More and more people are heading outdoors this summer. The Outdoor Industry Association recently found that in April, May, and June of 2020, national hiking participation was up 8.4% compared to those same months in 2019. Because of this increased interest, some of the better-known trails in the region are crowded with hikers. Lesser known trails are a great option for those looking to physically distance while still enjoying the outdoor amenities and natural beauty of Virginia’s New River Valley.
Here’s a list of the trails featured in the article:
Gatewood Reservoir Park, Pulaski Harvey Lee Price Trail, Prices Fork Mary Draper Ingles Trail, Glen Lyn Narrows Mill Creek, Narrows Ellett Valley Nature Trail, Blacksburg
Read the full article, including more details about each of the trails, from the Roanoke Times here.
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.
NRV Highlighted as Lesser-Known Summer Vacation in VA
New River Valley, VA – During the COVID-19 pandemic, people are searching for vacations that are fun and allow for physical distancing. It is a great time to consider visiting Virginia’s New River Valley. The region was highlighted as one of the “Lesser-Known Summer Vacations in Virginia” by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
Here is what the Virginia is for Lovers blog has to say about the region:
“Organized along the New River between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, the New River Valley in Southwest Virginia contains cities like Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Pulaski, and Radford. With the New River as the focal point, water sports in the valley are becoming a big draw for travelers interested in exploring Virginia’s rushing waterways.”
The outdoor amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley make the region a unique place to live, work, and play. Learn more about travel to the NRV in the article here.
Note: Please contact destinations highlighted in the article prior to visiting since COVID-19 public health guidelines may have changed opening hours and activity availability.
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.