As mentioned in last week’s Mayor’s Corner, tourism is a key driver of the region’s economy. The Grand Opening Ceremony of the newly constructed Monday-Lick Trail will continue to attract visitors to the county for years to come.
The completion of the Monday-Lick Trail highlights what can happen when a committed group of individuals and organizations work together toward a common goal. The next step is to elevate the Snowshoe Ride Center to Gold status. A year-round resort area will require year-round employees.
Also, highlighted in last week’s Mayor’s Corner was the need for investment in segments other than tourism. Reliance on a single sector leaves the area vulnerable to potential downturns in the tourism economy. To create a more resilient economy, the region must find ways to diversify beyond tourism.
Reliable and affordable Broadband can be the next big game-changer. Broadband is the missing link when promoting remote work opportunities. The Broadband projects that are advancing locally will fill that gap, allowing remote work to provide economic stability and more long-term employment opportunities.
The present reality and a critical component of economic growth is workforce development. We do have skilled tradesmen, operators and laborers who live in Pocahontas County. Unfortunately, they are forced to travel out of county to make a livable wage. Many would prefer to work closer home. But it will take above average wages to make that possible.
Sam
