Alleghany chamber representative urges support for Blue Ridge Rising; commissioners to consider resolution in two weeks

Larry Van Heltz, a representative of the local chamber of commerce, asked Alleghany County commissioners to consider adopting a resolution supporting Blue Ridge Rising, an initiative of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation aimed at coordinating regional gateway communities.

Van Heltz told the board he applied to be an ambassador and was recently appointed to represent Alleghany County. "I was appointed as the ambassador for Alleghany," he said, and urged the board to pass a nonbinding resolution expressing support so the foundation can present a unified case for federal and foundation assistance for gateway communities.

Van Heltz emphasized that the resolution would not commit county funds. "Again, they're not asking for the county to put in any money into this resolution," he said. The draft resolution referenced Hurricane Helene recovery needs in the region and the potential for coordinated grant applications.

Commissioners asked staff to review the resolution’s language and confirm that it contains no financial commitments. One commissioner said she had read the draft and supported it. The board agreed to consider a formal vote at the meeting in two weeks.

Why it matters: The Blue Ridge Parkway is a major tourism driver in the region. A board resolution of support could be used by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation and partners to strengthen requests for funding for recovery and infrastructure projects affecting gateway communities.

Next steps: Staff to review the draft resolution and return it for a vote at the next regular meeting. The county’s ambassador to Blue Ridge Rising said ambassadors will meet ahead of a July regional meeting to coordinate priorities.