County Seeks $250K Grant for Project Pandora to Create 44 New Jobs

Ashe County is poised to receive a significant boost to its economy with the potential approval of a $250,000 grant from the Department of Commerce's building reuse program, linked to a project known as "Project Pandora." This initiative aims to expand production in an existing facility, which is expected to create 44 new jobs with higher average area median incomes than currently available in the region.

During the recent county commission meeting, officials discussed the grant application process, which requires a 5% match from the county, totaling $12,500. The project, while shrouded in a code name to protect proprietary information, represents a competitive opportunity not just within North Carolina but on a global scale. The county's optimism about the grant reflects a broader commitment to economic development and job creation.

Commissioners addressed questions from the public regarding the nature of the project, clarifying that it involves expanding an existing building rather than repurposing it. This distinction is important as the county continues to explore ways to enhance its infrastructure and support local businesses.

In addition to the grant discussion, the meeting included updates from the New River Conservancy, highlighting ongoing partnerships aimed at environmental conservation and community engagement. The conservancy's executive director, Andrew Downs, expressed enthusiasm for collaborative projects that benefit both the environment and the local economy.

As Ashe County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering growth and improving the quality of life for residents through job creation and sustainable development. The next steps will involve finalizing the grant application and continuing discussions on community projects that align with these goals.