By David Rogers. BLOWING ROCK, N.C. — An exhaustive review of all things business and economy related kept members of the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee engaged for over two hours on Nov. 28.
Subcommittee Reports
Tourism Development
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- Chamber CEO Charles Hardin and TDA Executive Director Tracy Brown reported that the town’s water and sewer project has started, focusing initially on South Main Street from Valley Boulevard to roughly Laurel Park Road. Hardin stated his understanding of the plans are for the construction to then move to North Main Street from Valley Boulevard to the signal light at Yonahlossee Road before tackling the downtown section.
- Middle Fork Greenway provided a detailed report on the various phases of the project between Boone and Blowing Rock. The Blowing Rock section will be divided into three segments for a total of 1.2 miles. MFG has been awarded a $2 million grant from the State of North Carolina for the Blue Ridge Parkway segment. Hardin and Brown indicated that there have been some problematic changes in the discussions with the National Park Service about how to cross the Blue Ridge Parkway but the principals are hoping for resolution favoring the safety of Greenway users. The MFG report indicates that 90 percent of the engineering plans are now underway for segments A and C.
- Brown reported that wayfinding signage project, as recommended in the Roger Brooks International study, will be completed in 2024 and 2025, at a cost to the Tourism Development Authority approaching $500,000. The wayfinding signage improves how visitors and in many cases even local residents can find parking, public restrooms, etc.
Community Development
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- In the absence of subcommittee chair Jim Pitts, Hardin took the lead and reported that the Chamber’s “Living the Blowing Rock Dream” video is entering a final fundraising phase focused on real estate groups and possibly the Watauga Economic Development Commission.
- The next meeting for a group discussing a recreation corridor along U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock is Dec. 1.
- Efforts are underway for revisiting the master plan re: the Legion Hill, Annie Cannon Gardens and Glen Burney Trail improvements. Especially given the recent reorganization of the Blowing Rock Appearance Advisory Commission approved by Town Council at its November meeting, BRAAC will be involved in the planning discussions.
- Hardin reported that downtown property owners will be asked to “spruce up” their awnings, repair shutters and perhaps apply a coat of fresh paint to storefronts.
Business Development and Entrepreneurial
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- Subcommittee chair Ben Powell reported on the young professionals group, CORE, where P J Hennessy is taking the lead. The group is focusing on leadership skills and career development, community service, and professional networking, as well as social aspects.
- The subcommittee will engage with Blowing Rock School principal Patrick Sukow or teacher Robert Smith about engaging the school’s students in financial literacy and entrepreneurship, perhaps as an extracurricular club.
- Significant discussion occurred between EDC members about the need for improving cell phone service within the Blowing Rock town limits. Several member stated that they frequently can get no signal or experience dropped calls in the middle of conversations. David Rogers pointed out this issue’s importance as it relates to the issue of 24/7 ambulance transport in that if people need an ambulance but can’t get a cell signal, calling for an ambulance becomes problematic. Hardin reported that some phone services now have capabilities for making emergency calls via satellite connections.
- Powell reported that his group is trying to reach Skyline/SkyBest, AT&T and others about improving ;high speed, fiber optic service to business and residential areas within Blowing Rock.
Vacant Space Report
- Blowing Rock Brewing, Brewhouse at the intersection of Edmisten Road and U.S. 321. The development project has been paused due to much higher than anticipated construction costs.
- Moody Building. The property was purchased by John Winkler. Will be Moody Building Hotel with 16 rooms. Site work started Nov. 1 with construction start planned for Dec. 1.
- The Embers (hotel, bar, restaurant). Construction in progress, nearing completion.
- 7.35 acre parcel on North Main Street. Charleston, S.C. based developer Gordon Lovingood owns the property and is heard to be presenting plans to the Planning Board for a hotel, conference center and restaurant in the near future.
- Scotchman property on Valley Boulevard. Owned by Brit Medlin. Town Council earlier approved a package store but later determined to be a potential tear-down structure.
- High Country Cabinets building. Town Council earlier approved a variety of retail/office uses. A parking lot is to be constructed. No progress to date.
- Former Oyster House building on Sunset Drive. Currently empty, but purchased by Chuck Ludeke, working on updates and repairs. No decision as to what will go in the building.
- Old Hallmark Realty building. No report
- Wheelie’s. Closed. Landlord has it listed for lease.
- Former El Rincon Restaurant. Justin Davis and Tim Knight will open The Social on Main for breakfast and lunch, a new concept, sometime in December. Two large, short term rentals are upstairs. Building is owned by Steve Gillooly.
- Former Papa Joe’s on Valley Boulevard. Work is being done to convert at least part of the building to an extension of the neighboring childcare facility.
- Famous Toastery. Remains idle. No report.
- Blowing Rock service station on Valley Boulevard at Sunset Drive. David Barker has leased the building from Kim Hartley. Gas pumps converted to Exxon. Work on interior to convert to a convenience store. Opening uncertain.
- Chetola Mountain Resort. Pending sale to Warren Cathcart.
- Cafe Violet will open a French bakery in space next door.
- High Country Candles in Martin House. The business has been sold.
Space Needs
- High Country Greek is looking for a Blowing Rock location.
- Flavia – needs Main Street bakery space large enough to produce product.
- Mountain Escape Gallery. Brian Hockman (828-597-6686) seeks gallery space on Main Street.
- Candy store space desired on Main Steet.
- Zach Bennett, a general contractor, needs office space. 843-906-4272.
