Ashe Industrial Park Groundbreaking

Ashe Industrial Park Groundbreaking

The new Ashe Industrial Park broke ground on September 16, 2022.  For the first time in many years, Ashe County has a new asset to market to businesses and industry.  The Park, located off Ray Taylor road near GE Aviation, will provide companies maximum flexibility with lots ranging in size from two to forty-one acres.  The Industrial Park supports Ashe County Economic Development’s mission of fostering an environment that attracts new businesses, supports the expansion of existing businesses, and promotes entrepreneurship.  Forever mindful of being a good steward of taxpayer monies, the County applied for numerous grants and received awards totaling 1.2 million dollars in grant funding which will pay for 86% of the Park’s development costs.

The County’s goal for the Industrial Park is to attract businesses, with the highest possibility of growth and expansion in Ashe County that will offer good-paying jobs.  Ashe partnered with Creative EDC, an economic development consulting firm, to assess the County and the surrounding regions’ strengths and weaknesses, and compare these with the needs of growing and expanding companies. Analysis showed that small companies in advanced manufacturing, outdoor sports and recreation equipment, and creative industries match the strengths and assets of Ashe County.

Advanced Manufacturing provides an opportunity to grow an already strong manufacturing base that already exists in Ashe.  It includes machinery, electrical equipment, vehicle components, and transportation equipment, among other sectors.  Outdoor Sports and Recreation Equipment capitalizes on the heart and beauty of Ashe County.  The region is attractive to companies that supply bikers, hikers, kayakers, campers, and general nature enthusiasts who are drawn to Ashe County’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.  The Creative Industries category builds upon the artistic community and assets of the County.  These businesses may include companies that create intricate wood furniture, grow Christmas trees, or venture into developing Agtech hardware or software.

Marketing the Industrial Park will include a new economic development website, digital marketing, and collateral materials. As the marketing evolves, the County will invest in a more direct outreach like the state’s outdoor recreation target marketing program.

The estimated Industrial Park completion date is near the end of 2022. To find out more or reserve your site today, contact Cathy Barr at 336-846-5535 or ca********@as***********.com