July 2015

Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

History and Nature

A Patchwork of ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements ...... 1 Maps 2.1 Transportation Executive Summary...... 1–8 2.2 Land Use/Land Cover Chapter 1. Background...... 1–4 2.3 Natural Areas 2.4 Flood Plains Chapter 2. Current Conditions...... 1–22 2.5 Prime Farmland Chapter 3. Economy of Adams County...... 1–12 2.6 Hillsides 2.7 Appalachian Counties Chapter 4. Economic Development Strategies...... 1–10 2.8 US Appalachian Counties Chapter 5. Downtown Revitalization...... 1–22 3.1 OVRDC Service Area 5.1 Proposed Bike Plan and Rails to Trails Chapter 6. Implementation...... 1–8 5.2 waterfront Redevelopment From Broadway to Cemetery Avenue 5.3 Waterfront Plan from Broadway to Melody A. SWOT Analysis 5.4 Waterfront Plan from Melody to Stark Appendix B. Key Informant Interviews 5.5 Waterfront Plan from Stark to Cemetery Avenue C. Community Forums 5.6 Peebles Trail Connections D. Adams County Market Analysis 5.7 Seaman Trail Connections E. Adams Co. Full and Part-time Employment 5.8 West Union Trail Connections by Major Industries for the period 2003-2013 5.9 Winchester Trail Connections 6.1 Proposed Development Areas A Patchwork of History and Nature 1 ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN

Tables Graphics 2.1 National Register Properties and Sites 2.1 Demographic Projections by Age Group 2.2 Adams County Population Figures for 1990-2010 5.1 American Discovery Trail 2.3 Adams County and Adjacent Counties Population Projections 5.2 2.4 Age of Population 5.3 Buckeye Trail 2.5 Household Data 5.4 Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail 2.6 Poverty Levels 5.5 John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail 2.7 Housing Occupancy 6.1 Proposed Adams County Wayfinding Signage 2.8 Housing Units 6.2 Economic Development Strategies 2.9 Age of Housing 3.1 Adams Co Workforce 3.2 Unemployment Rates 2001-2014 3.3 Educational Attainment 3.4 Commuting Patterns 3.5 Class of Workers 3.6 Occupations 3.7 Number of business 1999, 2002 and 2012 3.8 Number of Employees by Industry Type 3.9 Top Ten Employers

2 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Executive Summary

A Patchwork of History and Nature Executive Summary

Executive Summary

Adams County Economic Development/ Tourism Plan With funding from a State of Ohio Local Government Innovative Fund (LGIF) Grant, Adams County commissioned an economic development/ tourism plan. The consultants retained were Poggemeyer Design Group, the EDGE Group, and Boulevard Strategies. The county commissioners appointed a twenty-four member planning steering committee to work with the consultants and to provide input.

The eighteen month planning process included three community engagement activities: 1. SWOT analysis among the planning steering committee president of the United States, the county boasts a rich prehistoric beginning dating 2. Interviews with fifteen key individuals representing the various back over 11,000 years. It is believed that that the sectors of the county Fort Ancient inhabitants built the world famous earthwork 3. five village forums known as the Serpent Mound which still exists and located in the northeast part of the county. This archaeological Numerous plans, reports and studies were reviewed for wonder was designated as a National Historic Landmark background information and for the preparation of an in October 1966 and in 2008 nominated and placed existing conditions analysis of the county. Goals, on the United States World Heritage tentative objectives and strategies were developed list. The county also played important roles in conjunction with the planning steering during the Civil War, including various activities committee. A draft of the plan was presented in with the Underground Rail Road. March 2015 and the final draft in June 2015. Adams County is the tenth largest county having 584 Adams County is part of and located in square miles of land of which 63% is forested and only southern Ohio along the Ohio River. It is a rural, somewhat .81% developed for urban uses. The thirty mile length of the isolated, and sparsely populated county with 28,500 people as of Ohio River, which makes up its southern border, adds to the 2010. Founded in 1797 and named after John Adams, the second 1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Executive Summary

floodplain areas which constitute about 10% of county land. Additionally, with about 368 square miles of forested lands and hillsides that are mostly located in the eastern part of the county, development is limited to the western and central parts of the county. closest commercial airports are in /Northern Kentucky County Population and Columbus. This lack of transportation access limits the type of development that the county can pursue. ∙∙Increased by 12.5% between 1990 (25,371) and 2010 (28,550). ∙∙State of Ohio projections has the county population at 27,520 in County Utilities 2040, a drop of 3.61%. ∙∙The County has ample water and electric service. ∙∙In following the national trend, the county is getting older with increases in the population 45 years and older and a decrease in the 25- ∙∙Availability of natural gas is currently limited to the southern part of 34 year old age group. the county. ∙∙The number of people at or below the federal poverty level has ∙∙Sanitary sewer system is limited and at capacity. However, the county is increased by 24% between 2000 and 2013 as well as the number of currently exploring the possibility of expanding it regional water district people receiving public assistance (by 34%). to include sanitary sewer services. ∙∙The county has some access to broadband services and is looking to Access To The County Has Some Limitations increase its availability throughout the county. ∙∙Two east/west routes traverse the county, one on the north, SR 32 (the Appalachian Highway) and one on the south, U.S. Route 52. Access County Taxes Include: to the interstate takes about 45 minutes (to I-275/I-71). ∙∙ 7.25% sales tax ∙∙There is no rail service through the county. Its east/west Norfolk ∙∙3% lodging tax Southern Rail line was scaled back a few years ago and recently part of the line was leased to a smaller carrier serving Clermont and Brown ∙∙Conveyance fee of $4 per thousand Counties. ∙∙1% income tax assessed in Manchester and West Union 2 ∙∙The county airport is very small and has no commercial flights. The POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Executive Summary

County Work Force ∙∙About 12,000 people in its civilian work force with about 8,200 employed. ∙∙The 2014 unemployment rate in Adams County was 9.1%, Ohio’s was 5.7% and the US’s was 6.2%. ∙∙In 2010, the county’s rate was 14.1%, Ohio’s 10.1% and the US’s 9.7%. ∙∙Educational attainment in Adams County was below its neighboring counties and the state. ∙∙From 2009-2013 American Community Survey figures, 23% of Adams County adults did not have a high school diploma compared to 13% for its neighboring counties ∙∙Only 11% of adults had a college degree compared to 24% in the adjoining counties.

County Occupations ∙∙The county had increases in the management/professional and related services and in the services industry. ∙∙It experienced decreases in sales and office, farming/fishing/forestry/ construction/extraction/maintenance, and production/transportation/ and material moving.

A key component of the economy in the county is tourism. Investing in this sector would greatly benefit the county. In The top industry clusters in the county are: 2014, the Adams County Travel & Visitors Bureau reported $31.8 million in ∙∙Healthcare ∙∙Utilities sales, representing $12.3 million in wages, $4.5 million in local taxes and ∙∙Retail ∙∙Accommodations employment of 579 persons. This represents a 9% increase in sales from 2011. ∙∙Manufacturing

The most prevalent industries in the county are: The top five employers in the county are: ∙∙Utilities ∙∙Arts & entertainment/ accommodations (tourism) ∙∙Dayton Power & Light ∙∙Adams County Regional Medical ∙∙Retail Center ∙∙Construction ∙∙Ohio Valley Schools ∙∙Healthcare ∙∙Wal-Mart ∙∙General Electric ∙∙Finance & Insurance 3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Executive Summary

As of 2013, Adams County was designated as a “Distressed” community by OVRDC using ARC’s economic conditions criteria of unemployment (three year average), poverty level and per capita market income.

Adams County is within the twelve county service area of the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) which is one of three regional districts in Ohio of the Federal Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). It is also the regional economic development district under the auspices of the Federal Economic Development Administration (EDA). OVRDC provides economic development planning, grantwriting and technical assistance to the twelve counties and is the conduit for funding community and economic development projects and activities under ARC and EDA. As of 2013, Adams County was designated as a “Distressed” community by OVRDC using ARC’s economic conditions criteria of unemployment (three year average), poverty level and per capita market income.

The county’s delivery mechanism for its community and economic development services is comprised of six entities: Existing Adams County economic development ∙∙The County’s Economic and Community Development Office strategies emanate from: ∙∙Adams County Chamber of Commerce ∙∙ The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) prepared ∙∙Adams County Community Improvement Corporation by OVRDC ∙∙Adams County Travel and Visitor’s Bureau ∙∙Goals from the county’s 2011 Land Use Plan ∙∙Adams Brown Community Action Partnership ∙∙Economic Development/Tourism Plan ∙∙OVRDC The Land Use Plan had four goals: These groups have done yeoman’s work giving their tight budgets and 1. Support an economy that provides multi-skilled employment staffing. With additional resources to these groups, the county has the opportunities potential to more aggressively recruit new businesses, increase tourism and create more jobs. 2. Promote a quality of life enhanced by thriving businesses and an abundant labor market 4 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Executive Summary

3. Respect and preserve Appalachian Culture and rural atmosphere The goals and strategies of the Economic Development/ by promoting tourism and the wise use of natural, agricultural, and Tourism Plan include: economic resources ∙∙ Retention of existing businesses and industry through assistance with 4. Create an environment that encourages, values and supports facility improvements, machinery and equipment (M&E) upgrades entrepreneurship and/or expansions especially targeting those entities that make-up the county’s existing business clusters 2012 CEDS Goals–Lead, collaborate and follow ∙∙Healthcare The major goals included: ∙∙Retail ∙∙Improving the perception of Southern Ohio ∙∙Manufacturing ∙∙Retaining and strengthening existing businesses ∙∙Utilities ∙∙Identifying economic clusters to recruit compatible industries and ∙∙Accommodations suppliers Another goal was the ∙∙Creating small business support and nurturing emerging recruitment of new entrepreneurs businesses recruitment of new businesses that ∙∙Working to make broadband services available throughout the region complement existing businesses ∙∙Assisting communities with water/sewer/transportation and related and industry clusters and those infrastructure projects identified by the market study findings ∙∙Improving and upgrading the region’s transportation network that listed the need for more construction contractors, accounting firms, specialized ∙∙Assisting non-profit health care providers freight truck transportation, healthcare, retail, ∙∙Enhancing geographic information systems (GIS) and global agriculture/local foods, and higher education. The need for more worker positioning systems (GPS) services in the region. education, job training and placement assistance was another stated goal. To spur development, the extension of natural gas service to the These goals included many objectives and strategies as well. For Adams northern part of the county was deemed critical as well as the expansion County, their prioritized CEDS objectives in 2012 were: the expansion of broadband services. To accommodate development, more sites of broadband services in the county; provision of natural gas in the need to be assembled by the CIC and marketed locally, regionally and northern part of the county; and roadway improvements along U.S statewide with various economic development agencies. Route 52 and SR 136.

5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Executive Summary

In regards to transportation, the following projects and strategies were identified: ∙∙The need for improvements to US Route 52 and the intersection at ∙∙The development of the Norfolk Southern Railroad line into a rails to SR 136 trail pathway connecting Winchester, Seaman and Peebles ∙∙Intersection upgrades at SR 32 and SR 136, the reconstruction of ∙∙The need to expand bike travel was seen as a major priority. Waggoner-Riffle Road, Wheat Ridge Road The proposed bike trail connecting Winchester, West Union, Manchester and Peebles will also help strengthen connections to ∙∙The widening of SR 247, and the upgrade/expansion of the airport the Buckeye Trail, North Country Trail, American Discovery Trail to accommodate more tourism and the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail. In this way, with more tourism, the villages can become stronger “Trail Towns” providing needed amenities to trail users, visitors, tourists and local residents. The villages can also become staging areas for those tourists staying overnight that are spending multiple days in the area.

Further assistance and resources to the Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau was seen as a priority since tourism is a key economic development component of the county. Increased advertising and marketing will bring more business to the county and strengthen the market for more restaurants and lodging. The distinctive and colorful Visitors Bureau’s Barn quilt logo and the various quilt icons that showcase all the amenities that the county has to offer have in a way established the identity and branding of Adams County as a place rich in history, folk art, eco-tourism, Appalachian and Amish cultures, rural character and outdoor adventure. This county identity and branding should continue to be used in all its marketing material, advertising and signage. To revitalize the downtowns of the villages, the plan calls for the utilization of theTrail Town Redevelopment Strategies and the Main Street approach developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Trail Town initiatives are for communities that are on national trails that cater to the trail users by having well marked

6 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Executive Summary

and secure Amish Region. It is also on the connections to the path of the Appalachian Discovery trail and offering local Birding and Heritage Trail, the shops, restaurants, bike John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail racks, restrooms, lodging and the American Discovery/ and parks for picnicking. The Main Buckeye Trails. Peebles will also Street strategy uses a four point program be linked with the proposed new consisting of Organization, Design, Economic rails to trails path from Winchester Restructuring, and Promotion. This successful approach through Seaman and the to downtown redevelopment has been used by hundreds proposed bikeway connecting it of communities nation-wide. For to West Union. The 7,000 acre GE these concepts to work, a county-wide Jet Engine Testing Facility is located southeast of Peebles. Strengthening its organization like the CIC would be connections to the trails and bikepath will make Peebles a more conducive needed to coordinate the process and Trail Town and staging area for multiple day visits. Its close proximity to to help secure funding for the villages. the Serpent Mound should help in its marketing efforts.

For Manchester, the county’s southwest gateway, the redevelopment Seaman’s proximity to the fairly of their downtown will be assisted by making the village more trail town new 94,000 square foot medical friendly emphasizing its linkages to the Ohio River, the Ohio River Islands center and the county’s largest National Refuge, the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail, industrial park provides it with the nearby Buckeye/American great opportunities in the future, Discovery Trails, the Hilltop Golf especially if natural gas can be Course and Moyer’s Vineyards, provided. Seaman’s location is also Winery and Restaurant. Its turn near many county attractions such of the century brick commercial as the Tranquility State wildlife buildings in its downtown, Area, the Amish region, Keim present a tremendous Family Amish Farm Market, the potential for redevelopment Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail and near the John Hunt opportunities. Morgan Heritage Trail. Additionally, Seaman will be a connector to the proposed Rails to Trails multi-purpose path from Winchester to Peebles. Peebles, the county’s northeastern outpost is centrally located to a As a potential staging area for persons spending more than a day in the myriad of attractions including the Tranquility State Wildlife Area, Brush county, increased tourism will help revitalize its downtown with the need Creek State Forest, Mineral Springs Lake, the Serpent Mound and the for more consumer goods and amenities desired by trail users.

7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Executive Summary

The true economic strength of the county lies with its natural amenities that include the Ohio River, the Serpent Mound, the various nature preserves, forests, Adams Lake, the trails and its Amish and Appalachian Cultures.

As the county seat, West Union is strategically located in the south central part of the county. It also has more developable land with utilities and recently a rails to trails lured Columbus Industries to alternative use would relocate to its industrial park connect it to Peebles and along SR 41. To the east and in to the other existing trails. The Red close proximity are the 17,000 Barn Convention Center, a key attraction is acre Edge of Appalachia Preserve, located in Winchester along SR 32. The John Hunt Buzzards Roost Rock, , the Wilderness Trail Preserve, Whipple Morgan Heritage Trail goes through Winchester as State Nature Preserve and Adams Lake. Additionally, West Union is just well as the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail. north of the Buckeye/American Discovery Trail and the North Country A bikepath along SR 136 connecting Winchester to Manchester Trail. The Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail runs along has been proposed under this plan to improve trail linkages and to offer SR 247 through the village and then proceeds northeast along SR 41 and another recreational activity in the county. Winchester’s downtown has eastward along SR 125. West Union is definitely a Trail Town and staging experienced business losses which has resulted in higher than normal area for multi-day visits. Its downtown is highlighted by the county court storefront vacancies. By enhancing it Trail Town location and amenities house and square around it. Building renovations and streetscape work for trail users, the village has the opportunity to lure more activity and would greatly enhance the downtown. businesses to its downtown.

The northwestern gateway to To protect the natural beauty of the county along with its historic the county is the Village of attributes and unique Amish and Appalachian cultures, the county should Winchester and like Seaman was consider adopting county-wide zoning after completion of a county founded as a rail town. Situated comprehensive plan. With these regulatory land use policies and zoning along SR 32 and SR 136, it is the laws in place, the county would be in a better position to guide and direct entry point to Adams County future development that will be sensitive to these assets. Additionally, and an ideal place for a visitor’s for the health, safety and general welfare of the county it should consider center. The Norfolk Southern line adopting building codes. The true economic strength of the county lies railroad went through Winchester with its natural amenities that include the Ohio River, the Serpent Mound, to Peebles then on to Portsmouth. the various nature preserves, forests, Adams Lake, the trails and its Amish This line has been closed and and Appalachian Cultures. 8 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 1 Background

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 1–Background

In July 2013, Adams County was awarded an LGIF grant to prepare an economic development/tourism plan

Chapter 1 Background

In looking to assist the five largest Villages in Adams In July 2013, Adams County was awarded a grant and in August contracted County– Manchester, Peebles, Seaman, West Union and with PDG for the plan’s preparation. PDG teamed up with a marketing consultant, Boulevard Strategies and with an urban design firm, the EDGE Winchester with individualized community and economic Group - both out of Columbus to assist with this one and on-half year revitalization strategies including their downtowns, planning process. the Adams County Office of Economic and Community Development approached Poggemeyer Design Group, Plan Elements Incorporated (PDG) in early 2012 for advice. ∙∙A current conditions analysis of the county including a brief history of its early development; After an assessment of need and available resources by PDG, it was ∙∙A description of the Adams County Economy and current economic deemed more prudent and cost effective to aggregate these efforts development strategies; into one county-wide approach. In this way, Adams County could take advantage of a new source of funding from the State for this ∙∙Recommended strategies to attract new businesses and retain and assist undertaking. After a consultant procurement process held in August existing ones; 2012, Adams County retained the services of PDG for grant-writing ∙∙Strategies to enhance the downtowns of Winchester, Seaman, Peebles, and community and economic development assistance. West Union and Manchester and to strengthen their connectivity to other Adams County assets, landmarks and trails; In March 2013, Adams County applied for a Local Government Innovative Fund (LGIF) Grant from the State of Ohio through the Ohio ∙∙Promotional program material, marketing and wayfinding mechanisms to strengthen tourism, including eco-tourism, heritage tourism and Development Services Agency (ODSA). The grant was for the funding recreational opportunities; of a county-wide economic development/tourism plan. The LGIF Program was initiated by Governor Kasich and funded through HB 153 ∙∙Use of a unique identity/brand for Adams County; in June 2011. The initial program allocation was for $46 million, $9 ∙∙Enhancement of the county’s economic development financial million in grants and $36 million for loans. The purposes of the LGIF incentives to make it more competitive; program are to promote efficiency, shared services, collaboration and mergers among local governments. Funded projects are expected to ∙∙Development of an achievable work plan to undertake the plan’s facilitate improved business environments and promote community recommendations; and the attraction through more efficient and effective service delivery within ∙∙Strengthening the county’s delivery system (organizational structures) to the area. implement the plan.

1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 1–Background

To oversee this project and assist with the planning process, a Projecttwenty-four memberPlanning committee Steering was appointed Committee by the county commissioners. This group was representative of the wide spectrum of business, institutional, medical, utility, industry, non-profit and public interest groups within the county. It also included elected officials.

Steering Committee Members

∙∙Rick Adamson, Adams County Regional Water AsCommunity part of the community engagement ∙∙Brain Baldridge, Adams County Commissioner Engagementprocess of the plan, the consultants ∙∙Karen Ballenger, Manchester Local Schools facilitated a Strengths, Weaknesses, ∙∙Tonya Boldman, Fifth Third Bank Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis among the Planning Steering Committee to assess ∙∙Stephen Caraway, Adams County Commissioner the economic conditions of the county. Additionally, ∙∙Tom Cross, Adams County Travel and Tourism fifteen county individuals representing area schools, ∙∙Brian DeBruin, GE Peebles Test Operations businesses, industry, medical institutions and non-profit organizations were interviewed by the consultants to obtain their ∙∙Bill Foster, Mayor- Village of Winchester opinions regarding past, current and future economic conditions ∙∙Ted Grooms, Mayor, Village of West Union of the county. These fifteen individuals were chosen by the Planning Steering ∙∙Tina Hageman, Ohio Valley School District Committee. Both the SWOT analysis report and synopsis of the fifteen interviews are included in the appendix to this plan. ∙∙Rhonda Hamilton, Health Source Ohio ∙∙Craig Hockenberry, Manchester Local School District After the interviews, the consultants and the Planning Steering Committee ∙∙David Hughes, Mayor, Village of Seaman convened five village forums in Manchester, Peebles, Seaman, West Union and Winchester. The purpose of these forums was to hear from the village residents ∙∙Troy Jolley, Mayor, Village of Manchester and businesses firsthand what economic development issues were impacting ∙∙Norman Newman, Mayor, Village of Peebles the county and most importantly how these county circumstances were ∙∙Al Norris, Adams-Brown Economic Opportunities, Inc. impacting their respective community. A write-up of the forums is included in the appendix. ∙∙Mike Pell, First State Bank ∙∙Saundra Stevens, Adams County Regional Medical Importance of Having an Economic Development Strategy ∙∙Bill Swango, Adams County Rural Electric From the Report, entitled “Economic Development Strategy Guide” that was ∙∙Deanna Swayne, Adams County Chamber of Commerce partially authored by Poggemeyer Design Group for the Redevelopment Ready ∙∙B.J. Thompson, Columbus Industries Communities Program of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation: ∙∙Gary Tindall, Dayton, Power & Light, Inc./Generation Center “Most communities have a general concept of how they encourage economic ∙∙Rodney Wallace, Ohio Valley School District development within their community far beyond the simplistic mantra “that ∙∙Paul Worley, Adams County Commissioner 2 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 1–Background

“Most communities have a general concept of how they encourage economic development within their community far beyond the simplistic mantra “that the economy will get better”

the private sector to make favorable development investment decisions. This includes measures to eliminate unnecessary regulatory barriers to new investment. Just as businesses compete for customers, communities compete for residents and investment since people and capital can move easily to preferred places. In a sense, an economic development strategy might be thought of as an expression of community “product development”. To some degree, existing and potential residents and businesses are consumers with expectations, preferences and the ability to make choices. Paired with this, communities offer “products” that range from housing options, retail/service offerings, educational institutions, locational attributes, recreational amenities, cultural experiences, economic opportunities and so on. It is important to note, that no one community can offer everything to everyone in respect to economic development, but, a community with a well-defined and honed strategy that further develops their “product offerings” will be more successful than other places that don’t have the economy will get better”. one. The economic development strategy should therefore include the Successful places have a clear following elements. defined strategy that describes how they intend to attract investment, build up their tax base and create job opportunities. The Economic Development Strategy strategies are based on the economic assets, natural ∙∙Identification of assets, locational advantages, potential business attributes, and the cultural and locational aspects of clustering, workforce attributes and other placed-based characteristics the community and region. These strategies may be enhanced ∙∙Key information that helps provide a compelling case for local by relevant community planning documents, market studies and land development and redevelopment opportunities use policies that foster balanced growth and deliberate initiatives that encourage investment while eliminating obstacles. ∙∙Effective description of the community’s role in the region and regional opportunities An economic development strategy is a policy document that singularly ∙∙Highlighted opportunities for private capital investment that will build expresses a vision and draws specific attention to opportunities. It is a up the tax base and create jobs way to articulate strategic and tactical steps to be taken to encourage 3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 1–Background

∙∙Deliberative and planned implementation steps that include responsible parties, timeframes and performance objectives ∙∙An evaluation system with specific benchmarks to monitor progress and success

To gauge progress, an evaluation system should be put in place and include the following metrics: ∙∙Number of jobs created an/or retained ∙∙Dollar value of the development (new construction/renovation) and additional square footage of residential, commercial and industrial space added ∙∙New business formations ∙∙Population growth ∙∙Household/per capita income (compared with regional, state and national averages) ∙∙Unemployment rate” The evaluation process will dictate whether the economic development strategies may need to be revised to accommodate market changes, economic conditions and/or unforeseen development opportunities. Economic development is an on-going process needing vigilant attention, focus, networking, and follow through.

4 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 2 Current Conditions

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Chapter 2 Current Conditions

This Chapter provides The following narrative is excerpted from A Brief History of Adams County by Stephen Kelley. a general overview History Adams County, Ohio was established by proclamation on July 10, 1797. It was named in Honor of and description of the the incumbent president, John Adams. Adams County was carved out of what was then known county and includes: as the “Territory North West of the River Ohio”, now referred to as the “old Northwest”. It is the third oldest county in Ohio, predating the formation of the state by more than five years. ∙∙Brief History of Its Early Development The earliest known humans to inhabit this area were the Palaeo Indians. It is believed these people moved into the area about 11,000 years ago. One of the largest ∙∙Locational Attributes Palaeo Indian encampment sites discovered thus far in North America is near the Adams County Community of Sandy Springs on the Ohio River. ∙∙Type of Geography Subsequent prehistoric groups making their homes in Adams County and Terrain included the Adena and Hopewell Cultures who left behind a number of burial mounds and earthen enclosures, several of ∙∙Natural Features which can yet be seen. The Fort Ancient Culture was the last ∙∙Historic Properties of the prehistoric inhabitants to live here. They left us one of the most intriguing and significant earthworks known in the ∙∙Available Utilities and New World- The Great Serpent Mound. This world class monument Public Infrastructure of the past is preserved in a park owned and operated by Ohio History Connections formerly the Ohio Historical Society. ∙∙Demographic Trends When the first whites began exploring this region, they found it well occupied ∙∙Housing Conditions by the Shawnee Nation. They were among the most war-like of the eastern Indian and Available Schools tribes and put up a fierce resistance to the encroachment of white settlers. They relinquished their claims to southern Ohio only after their crushing defeat in 1794 at the Battle of Fallen Timbers in .

1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

One of the first “forters” to permanently settle outside Massie’s Station was Thomas Kirker (1760-1837), an Irish immigrant who later served two terms as Ohio’s second governor.

The first county seat was established at Manchester, but because of political differences, some of the judges named Adamsville (that was sited near present day Rome) the county seat. To ease the tension between the Manchester and Adamsville factions, the governor of the Territory, Arthur St. Clair, had a new seat of justice platted at the mouth of Ohio Brush Creek, named “Washington”, this pioneer log cabin settlement served as the county seat from 1798- 1804.

In April 1803, only two months after Ohio was admitted to the Union, the new state’s legislature passed an act that provided for the “permanent establishment” of a county seat for Adams County. Three Commissioners were chosen to select the site for the new town. The land they chose was purchased and in the spring of 1804, the lots were surveyed and sold at public auction. Thomas Kirker, who was then serving as Speaker of the Ohio Senate, named the new seat of justice, “West Union”.

In 1796, Congress authorized the blazing of a road through the The first permanent white settlement in Adams from Wheeling, (West) Virginia to Limestone County was a fortified community first known as (Maysville), Kentucky. Work was begun in 1797 by Ebenezer Zane and “Massie’s Station”built on the banks of the Ohio River at his son-in-law, John McIntire. This was the first “official” road blazed “Three Islands”. Its founder, Nathaniel Massie (1763-1811), later in the territory and became known as “Zane’s Trace”. The trace passed became one of the largest landholders in Ohio and a prominent through Adams County from the northeast to the southwest. Much politician who helped pave the way for Ohio statehood. Built in the of it followed an ancient buffalo trail and Indian path known by the winter of 1790-1791, Massie’s Station is known today as Manchester Shawnee as “Alanant-O-Wamiowee”. and ranks among the oldest towns in Ohio. 2 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Adams County was carved out of what was then known as the “Territory North West of the River Ohio”, now referred to as the “old Northwest”.

Zane’s Trace became the first mail road in Ohio and was a stagecoach Many Adams County homes, farms and businesses were looted route for several decades. Several historical figures traveled over this and the raiders killed one civilian at Eckmansville during the daring route through Adams County including General and President Andrew excursion. Jackson, statesman and Senator Henry Clay, Senator Thomas Hart Benton and General Santa Anna of Mexico. In 1910-1911, the county received much on-going (and unwanted) national attention when almost 2,000 Adams County voters were For about three decades preceding the Civil War, there was much disenfranchised when one of the nation’s largest vote-buying abolitionist activity in the county. Many residents, especially those of scandals was exposed. the various branches of the Presbyterian Church, became involved in the . Many ministers such as William Williamson, In September of 1957, the county received much better national John Graham and Dyer Burgess helped fan the flames of the ant- publicity when it hosted the fifth World’s Conservation Exposition slavery movement throughout the region. and Plowing Contests. Fourteen nations participated in this four day event that drew an estimated quarter million visitors. Following the outbreak of hostilities between the North and South in 1861, many companies of volunteers were raised in Adams County. Most of the 70th Ohio Volunteer Infantry regiment Adams County is located in southern was composed of men from LocationOhio along the Ohio River. It is bounded Adams and Brown Counties. by Brown County to the west, Highland They trained on the old fair and Pike Counties to the north and Scioto grounds- renamed “Camp County to the east. Across the River to the Hamer”—on the south side of south in Northern Kentucky, it is bordered West Union before marching by Mason and Lewis Counties. south to the battlefields. Confederate General John Hunt Adams County is 76 miles east of Morgan, the “Thunderbolt Cincinnati, 102 miles south of Columbus, of the Confederacy” and his 133 miles west of Parkersburg, West raiders passed through much Virginia and 90 miles northeast of of the county in July of 1863, Lexington, Kentucky. creating much fear and havoc.

3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

OVRDC Main Transportation Access–Map 2.1 Air TransportationThe county is within two hours from three major airports: the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, the Port Columbus International Airport and the Mid- Ohio Valley Regional Airport in Parkersburg, .

Adams County also has a small publicly owned facility, the Alexander Salamon Airport located about four miles northwest of West Union just west of SR 247. This forty acre facility accommodates mostly small single engine aircraft. It has one runway that is 3,762 feet long and sixty-five feet wide. The airport is operated by the Adams County Airport Authority and was named after a Czechoslovakian refugee that settled in Seaman. The land for the airport was donated by Dr. Salamon. Highway The County is about a 45 minute drive to I-275 to the west with another 20 to 30 minutes to I-75 and I-71, Interstate I-64 is about an hour and one- half to the south and SR 23 is about a 30 minute drive to the east. Adams County has no direct access to these major highways and is served by two east/west roads; SR 32 (the Appalachian Highway) along the northern part of the county and SR 52 which runs parallel and adjacent to the Ohio River on the south. Rail There is one major railroad, the Norfolk Southern Line that traverses the county from east to west along the northern part of the county. This line connects Cincinnati to Portsmouth. It was formerly classified as a B Class carrier transporting from between 5 to 20 million tons of 4 cargo per year. With the loss of manufacturing in POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

the region, usage of this line has greatly diminished. The segment of line 3. The Eastern part of the county exemplifies the steep and very through Adams County has been inactive for a few years, however, NS steep Western Region. recently leased part of the rail line to a smaller carrier for runs between Peach Mountain, located in the northeast part of the count and west of Williamsburg in Clermont County to Manchester. The unused line in Mineral Springs is the highest point in the county with an elevation of Adams County would make an ideal east/west multi-use trail connecting 1,270 feet above sea level. to the existing north/south trails. River Ohio Brush Creek, Scioto Brush Creek, Eagle Creek and Three Mile Creek drain most of the county. Ohio Brush Creek generally drains the The Ohio River constitutes a thirty mile central part of the county flowing from the north and southward into long linear southern boundary of the the Ohio River. The eastern part of the county is generally drained by county separating it from Kentucky. Scioto Brush Creek which flows into Scioto County. The southwestern There is considerable barge part of the county is drained by East Fork/Eagle Creek and Three Mile traffic along the Ohio River Creek. with many one thousand foot ships transporting coal, petroleum, gravel, The county is within Ohio EPA’s southeast district and the chemicals, GroundwaterOhio River Stem Watershed. The Adams County Regional iron, steel and Water District (ACRWD) supplies water to Adams and Brown grain. The river Counties for approximately 18,000 people. The source for the is heavily used by water comes from eight deep wells that are approximately 75 feet pleasure boaters as well deep. These are drilled into the Ohio River Valley Aquifer which Oho and is a passageway for many EPA considers as groundwater. The Well field is located on the south Riverboats transporting tourists side of U.S. route 52 just west of Wrightsville. In 2014, ACRWD pumped eastward to Pittsburgh or westward 788,105,000 gallons of water providing an average of 71 gallons of to Cincinnati and the . water per day per person. There is no major marina or boat docking facilities along the Ohio River within Adams The County consists of 584 square miles, the tenth largest in Ohio. County. Ashtabula County, in , is the largest county with 702 square miles. Adams is very rural in nature with only 0.81% of land cover designated as urban (which includes residential/commercial, Adams County has three distinct land resource areas: industrial and transportation uses). The remaining land coverage is comprised of forests (368 square miles) at 63.15%, followed by 1. Physiography,The Northwest consists Geology, of gently Relief sloping andlands indigenousDrainage of the cropland (162 square miles) at 27.81%, pasture (43 square miles) at and Indiana Thin Loess and Till Plains, 7.39%, and mining (1.5 square miles) at 0.26%. 2. The Central and southwestern area consist of rolling to steep lands of the Kentucky , and the 5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

With a 2010 population of 28,550, Adams County ranked 79th among Ohio Manchester, Seaman, West Union, Winchester and Wayne Township. The Counties, well below Cuyahoga County, the most populous with 1,266,049 remainder of the county is unzoned. persons. Similarly, in regards to density, Adams County was 82nd out of 88 having 48.9 persons per square mile compared to Cuyahoga County with 2,800 persons per square mile. Adams County is blessed with eight nature preserves, a wildlife refuge, The limited commercial areas are located along the major intersections Preservesthree state forests andand a world Forests famous archaeological site- the Serpent along SR 32 near Winchester, Seaman and Peebles, along SR 41 southwest Mound. The Mound is a 1,348 foot long serpent effigy on a 60 acre of West Union and along 52 near Manchester. The industrial areas are site northeast of the county believed to be built by the Fort Ancient southeast of Peebles where the 7,000 acre GE Testing Facility is located, inhabitants between 1025 and 1215 A.D. Hanson Aggregates (limestone extraction) at the Land Use and Land Cover –Map 2.2 Plum Run Quarry east of Peebles, an industrial park along SR 32 near Seaman, another industrial park along SR 41 southwest of West Union, and sites along SR 52 where the two Dayton Power & Light coal fired steam electric generating stations are located, specifically, in Aberdeen and Wrightsville. Additionally, the county’s water treatment plant is located along SR 52 just west of SR 247.

Only five villages and Zoningone township have zoning ordinances: 6 Cherry Fork, POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Adams County Nature Preserves 6. Lynx Prairie Nature Preserve –52 acres 7 miles east of West Union, 1. Adams Lake State Nature Preserve –a 47 acre area located northeast of south of SR 125 West Union 7. Shoemaker State Nature Preserve –22 acres east of Peebles 2. Chaparral Prairie Nature Preserve –67 acres northwest of West Union and 8. Whipple State Nature Preserve –448 acres north of SR 52 and east of west of SR 247 SR 247 3. Davis Memorial State Preserve –88 acres northeast of Mineral Springs Lake 9. Ohio River Islands –the refuge has 22 4. Edge of Appalachia Preserve and Buzzard Roost Rock –17,000 acres, scattered islands and three main tracts of land; it extends for 362 miles southeast of West Union along the upper Ohio River along parts of Kentucky and all of West 5. Johnson Ridge State Nature Preserve –208 acres north of west Union Virginia. A section of the Kentucky part encompasses the islands off the Village of Manchester.

Natural Areas –Map 2.3

7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Adams County State Forests 10. The –13,502 acres located northeast of the county 11. The Scioto Land Company –3,621 acres of scrub forest land located along the eastern part of the county near Mineral Springs. This land has historically been used for hunting 12. –63,000 acres along the southeastern part of the county 13. Tranquility Wildlife Refuge –4,000 acres located in the north central part of the county

As shown in Table 2.1, Adams County has sixteen properties/sites/districts on the National Register of Historic Places including one National Historic Landmark. Historic Properties and Sites Table 2.1 National Register Properties/Sites

Sites/Properties/Districts Date Listed and National Reg. Location

Adams County Paleo-Indian District October 17, 1974 #74001389 North of US 52 near Sandy Springs/Green Township

Buckeye Station May 1, 1974 #74001388 East of Manchester off US 52, Monroe Township

Cockerill House November 21, 1978 #78001998 115 E. Main Street in West Union

Dayton Power & Light Co mound July 30, 1974 #74001391 On grounds of DP&L east of Wrightsville in Monroe Township

Harshaville Covered Bridge March 16, 1976 #76001357 Graces Run Road in Oliver Township

Kirker Covered Bridge October 29, 1975 75001309 SW of West Union off SR 136 in Liberty Township

Gov. Thomas Kirker Homestead November 3, 1975 75001310 SW of West Union off SR 136 in Liberty Township

Dr. A.C. Lewis House October 31, 1980 #80002931 103 South Street in Winchester October 15, 1966 #66000602, Serpent Mound 5 miles NW of Locust Grove on SR 73 in Bratton Township National Historic Landmark The Ridge October 8, 1992 #92001352 503 E. 8th Street in Manchester

Trebor Inn May 17, 1976 #76001358 5 miles NE of West Union on SR 41 in Tiffin Township

Wamsley Village Site July 30, 1974 #74001390 West of Stout near the mouth of Brush Creek in Monroe Township

West Union Presbyterian Church November 18, 1976 #76001359 108 S. 2nd Street in West Union

Wicherham Inn May 7, 1979 #79001778 NE of Peebles on SR 41 in Franklin Township

John T. Wilson Homestead April 11, 1977 #77001039 NE of Seaman on SR 770 in Scott Township

Tet Woods Building March 25, 1982 #82003536 307 Main Street in West Union 8 Source: National Register of Historic Places listing from the National Park Service as of May 29, 2015 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Flood Plains –Map 2.4

The majority of the flood plain areas lie along the thirty mile stretch of the Creek, Scioto Brush Creek, West Fork, East Fork/Eagle Creek, South Fork Ohio River, and along some of the major creeks that include: Ohio Brush and Three Mile Creek. 9 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Prime Farm Land –Map 2.5

According to ODNR’s Division of Soil and Water Conservation,Adams County oilseed crops. It may be cultivated land, pasture, woodland, or other land has about 101,400 acres of prime farmland mostly located in the western but is not urban or built-up land or water areas. Prime farmland produces part of the county. Prime farmland, as defined by the U.S. Department of the highest yields with minimal expenditure of energy and economic Agriculture, is the land that is best suited to food, feed, forage, fiber and resources, and farming it results in the least damage to the environment. 10 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Hillsides –Map 2.6

The entire eastern side of the county is within the Western Allegheny and Meigs Townships, most all of Jefferson Township, the eastern parts Plateau Region which has very steep terrain resulting in land having slopes of Brush Creek Township and all of Green Township. In the southern and of 30% or higher. This additional constraint makes development more southwestern portions of the county, steep lands can be found along the difficult and costlier. It is not at all conducive for manufacturing or for most southeast section of Sprigg Township and the northern part of Manchester other types of industry. This area includes the eastern parts of Franklin Township. 11 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Treatment Plan. ACRWD was established in 1971 with a new plant built in 1997 and upgrades in 2001. As previously mentioned, the source of water is from wells tapping into the Ohio River Valley Aquifer. ElectricElectric, Service Telephone,in Adams County Gas, The district has 5,800 service connections and 3,696,000 linear Cableis provided and by three Broadband carriers: feet of waterlines. The WTP capacity is 800 million gallons Adams Rural Electric per day (GPD). Storage capacity through water towers Cooperative, Columbus include 2.7 million gallons of water. The average daily and Southern Power flow is 1.9 million gallons, with peak daily flow at Company (AEP), 2.3 million gallons. The Manchester water plant and the South was built in 1980 with upgrades in 2004. Its Central Power REA. source of water is from 3 ground wells tapping Telephone service into the Ohio River Valley Aquifer. The Manchester is provided by Verizon Treatment Plan has 950 service connections, 10,000 North and SBC Ohio. Gas is linear feet of water lines and has a capacity of 936,000 provided by Duke Energy formerly gallons per day. It has storage capacity of 550,000 gallons Cincinnati Gas & Electric. Because through a tank system. The average daily flow is 200,000 of the terrain, gas is currently available gallons with peak daily flow at 230,000 gallons. in the southwestern part of the county in Sprigg, Liberty, Tiffin and Manchester Townships and the Villages of West Union and Manchester. Over the past 10 years, broad band Adams County is served by five facilities located in Manchester, Peebles, services have been developed to serve the most Seaman,Waste West Water Union and Treatment Winchester. The Manchester Waste Water populous areas of the county. Funding, in part, has been Treatment Plant (WWTP) was built in 1969 and upgraded in 1998. It is provided by Connect Ohio and from grants from the National an activated sludge treatment facility, has 880 connections and 12,000 Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through linear feet of lines. The average daily flow is 100,000 gallons per day and the Connecting Appalachia Ohio Middle-Mile Consortium project. the peak daily flow is 160,000 gallons per day. The Peebles WWTP was This project has provided broadband service to 34 counties in southern built in 1991 and upgraded in 2000. It is an activated sludge facility, has Ohio including Adams. Over 1,960 new miles of fiber optic lines have 745 connections and 79,000 linear feet of lines. The average daily flow been installed along with 1,097 new miles of backbone fiber. Additional is 276,000 gallons per day and the peak daily flow is 1.1 million gallons connections for business and institutional access are planned and per day. The Seaman facility was built in 1959 and upgraded in 2002. It is underway. Currently, Adams County has access to mobile wireless, DSL, a trickling filter type facility, has 485 connections and 52,800 linear feet satellite, fixed wireless and cable services. of lines. The Average daily flow is 180,000 gallons per day and the peak Daily Flow is 250,000 gallons per day. The West Union WWTP was built in 1952, upgraded in 1980 and 1994. It is a trickling filter type facility, has 1,200 connections and 237,600 linear feet of lines. The Average Water in the County is provided by two facilities: the Adams County Daily Flow is 325,000 gallons per day and the Peak Daily Flow is 1 million Regional Water District (ACRWD) and the Village of Manchester Water gallons per day. The Winchester facility was built in 1973 and upgraded 12 Water Service POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

in 2004. The WWTP is a lagoon/aeration type facility and Ohio Appalachian Counties – Map 2.7 has 450 connections. The Average Daily Flow is 70,000 gallons per day and the peak daily flow if 500,000 gallons per day. To accommodate growth, for better efficiency and economies of scale, the county is looking at adding sanitary sewer services to its regional water district.

Appalachian Heritage CulturalAdams County isHeritage one of thirty-two counties in Ohio and one of 420 counties of the thirteen state Appalachian Region of the United States. This region extends from Mississippi to New York. Please see Maps 2.7 Ohio Appalachian Counties and 2.8 US Appalachian Counties. The Appalachian People consist of folks with unique backgrounds - Native American, Irish, English, Scotch, and descendants of German and Polish immigrants all blended together across the region. This heritage, though diverse, is prevalent in the county and personified through the arts and crafts, music, local folklore, and religion. Though still debated, some of the attributes of the Appalachian culture stem from the early

13 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

APPALACHIAN REGION

rural farm nature of the Appalachian region, its past Appalachian Region Counties – Map 2.8 isolation (physically, socially and culturally), its early N EW Y ORK underfinanced subsistence economy and its predominant OTSEGO CHENANGO SCHOHARIE W ISCONSIN CORTLAND SCHUYLER TOMPKINS DELAWARE STEUBEN Celtic roots. From the book, Appalachian Values by Loyal CHEMUNG TIOGA BROOME M ICHIGAN ALLEGANY CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA

SUSQUEHANNA ERIE BRADFORD WAYNE Jones, the most identifiable characteristics of these TIOGA WARREN MC KEAN POTTER

LACKAWANNA

CRAWFORD WYOMING ASHTABULA P ENNSYLVANIACAMERON FOREST inhabitants include individualism, independence, modesty, SULLIVAN PIKE ELK VENANGO LYCOMING CLINTON LUZERNE MERCER TRUMBULL CLARION COLUMBIA MONROE and a strong sense of religion. MON- CARBON TOUR JEFFERSON CLEARFIELD UNION CENTRE MAHONING SCHUYLKILL BUTLER ARMSTRONG SNYDER NORTH- LAWRENCE UMBERLAND COLUMBIANA BEAVER INDIANA MIFFLIN CARROLL BLAIR JUNIATA Amish Heritage HOLMES CAMBRIA PERRY ALLEGHENY

HANCOCK HUNTINGDON WESTMORELAND LLINOIS NDIANA HIO COSHOCTON I TUSCARAWAS I O JEFFERSON HARRISON

BROOKE WASHINGTON EW OHIO BEDFORD GUERNSEY SOMERSET Adams County has an enclave of Amish predominantly in BELMONT FAYETTE FULTON N GREENE WASHINGTON MARSHALL ALLEGANY MUSKINGUM NOBLE MONROE MONONGALIA ERSEY PERRY MORGAN WETZEL GARRETT MORGAN the Wheat Ridge area (northeast of West Union). Seven MARION M J

HOCKING WASHINGTON TYLER PRESTON BERKELEY WARE MINERAL TAYLOR JEFF- A R PLEASANTS ERSON ROSS ATHENS HARRISON HAMPSHIRE VINTON RITCHIE TUCKER GRANT WOOD BARBOUR families came to Adams County from Melroy, Indiana in DODDRIDGE Y L A N D HARDY HIGHLAND PIKE MEIGS

JACKSON WIRT LEWIS ELA GALLIA GILMER BROWN RANDOLPH

CLERMONT UPSHUR ADAMS SCIOTO ROANE D MASON JACKSON BRAXTON 1976 and began to farm and raise livestock. Since then, CALHOUN PENDLETON GREENUP LAWRENCE ROBERT- EST IRGINIA SON W V LEWIS CLAY WEBSTER CABELL PUTNAM the Amish have expanded their work to include a variety NICHOLAS FLEMING CARTER BOYD HIGHLAND KANAWHA NICHOLAS POCAHONTAS LINCOLN ELLIOTT BATH BATH MONT- ROWAN WAYNE GOMERY LAWRENCE BOONE FAYETTE JOHNSON GREENBRIER MENIFEE MORGAN MARTIN of businesses, industries and various service enterprises. CLARK MINGO POWELL LOGAN RALEIGH MADISON WOLFE MAGOFFIN ALLEGHANY SUMMERS ROCKBRIDGE GARRARD ESTILL WYOMING MONROE LEE FLOYD Today, there are over one hundred households and three BREATHITT PIKE JACKSON CRAIG BOTETOURT K ENTUCKY LINCOLN OWSLEY MERCER MCDOWELL ROCK- KNOTT CASTLE GILES V IRGINIA CASEY PERRY BUCHANAN MONT- EDMONSON HARTHART GOMERY GREEN CLAY LETCHER BLAND parochial schools. Many visitors come annually to Adams PULASKI DICKENSON TAZEWELL LAUREL LESLIE PULASKI ADAIRRUSSELL WISE RUSSELL WYTHE FLOYD KNOX SMYTH METCALFE HARLAN WAYNE CARROLL PATRICK HENRY County for the various festivals and special events and tour MONROE WHITLEY LEE SCOTT WASHINGTON GRAYSON CLINTON BELL CUMBER- LAND MC CREARY ALLEGHANY MACON CLAY SULLIVAN PICKETT SCOTT CLAIBORNE HANCOCKHAWKINS ASHE SURRY STOKES CAMPBELL WATAUGA OVERTON FENTRESS WASH- JOHNSON the Amish country to purchase furniture, baked goods, JACKSON UNION CARTER SMITH INGTON AVERY WILKES FORSYTH MORGAN GRAINGERHAMBLEN MITCHELL PUTNAM GREENE YADKIN JEFFERSON UNICOI DE KALB YANCEY ANDERSONKNOX CALDWELL ALEX- DAVIE CUMBER- COCKE WHITE ANDER dairy products and crafts. LAND MADISON SEVIER BURKE ENNESSEE ROANE T VAN WARREN LOUDON CANNON BUREN BLOUNT BUNCOMBE HAYWOOD MC DOWELL LEWIS RHEA RUTHERFORD BLEDSOE ORTH AROLINA MEIGS MONROE N C SWAIN COFFEE HENDERSON GRUNDY MC MINN GRAHAM JACKSON SEQU- POLK ATCHIE

MACON TRAN- LAWRENCE CHEROKEE FRANKLIN MARION SYLVANIA POLK CHEROKEE CLAY HAMILTON BRADLEY BENTON SPARTANBURG ALCORN LAUDERDALE CATOO- TOWNS PICKENS LIME- FANNIN RABUN MARSHALL SA TIPPAH STONE WHIT- UNION PRENTISS MADISON JACKSON DADE WHITE GREENVILLE COLBERT FIELD OCONEE TISHOMINGO MURRAY GILMER UNION WALKER LAWRENCE CHAT- LUMPKIN ANDERSON DAWSON STEPHENS PANOLA FRANKLIN MORGAN TOOGA GORDON HABERSHAM LEE PICKENS MARSHALL DE KALB HALL BANKS ITAWAMBA HARTHART CHEROKEE FORSYTH FRANKLIN As shown in Table 2.2, Adams County has experienced PONTOTOC MARION WINSTON FLOYD BARTOW MADISON CULLMAN JACKSON YALOBUSHA ETOWAH ELBERT S OUTH C AROLINA CHICKASAW MONROE CHEROKEE POLK BARROW BLOUNT GWINNETT CALHOUN HARAL- modest growth between 1990 and 2010, going from LAMAR WALKER PAULDING SON FAYETTE SAINT CALHOUN Demographics MONTGOMERY CLAY DOUGLAS WEBSTER CLAIR JEFFERSON CLEBURNE OKTIBBEHA CARROLL LOWNDES TALLADEGA 25,371 to 28,550. This represents a gain of 3,179 persons HEARD

CHOCTAW PICKENS TUSCALOOSA SHELBY CLAY RANDOLPH WINSTON NOXUBEE (12.53%) over this twenty year period. Growth occurred BIBB COOSA CHAMBERS HALE CHILTON KEMPER TALLAPOOSA within the Villages of West Union and Winchester and in ELMORE G EORGIA MISSISSIPPI MACON eleven townships: Bratton, Brush Creek, Jefferson, Liberty, Meigs, Oliver, Scott, Sprigg, Tiffin, Wayne and Winchester. A LABAMA

The most significant growth occurred along a swath of October 8, 2008 land from Sprigg Township, in the southeastern part of the county northeasterly to Bratton Township in the north central part. Bratton experienced a 69% growth from 1990, Oliver Township 52%, Liberty Township 40% and Sprigg Township 24%. The only outlier was Winchester Township, in the far northeast corner of the county that experienced a 25% increase. 14 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Table 2.2 Adams County Population Figures 1990-2010

1990 2000 2010 (change from 1990)

Adams County 25,371 27,330 28,550 +3,179 12.5%

Ohio 10,847,115 11,353,140 11,536,504 +689,389 6.3%

Cherry Fork Village 178 127 155 -23 -12.92%

Manchester Village 2,223 2,043 2,023 -200 -8.9%

Peebles Village 1,782 1,739 1,782 0 no change

Rome Village 99 117 94 -5 -5%

Seaman Village 1,013 1,039 944 -69 -6.8%

West Union Village 3,096 2,903 3,241 +145 4.6%

Winchester Village 978 1,025 1,051 +73 7.4%

Bratton Twp. 862 1,412 1,461 +599 69.4%

Brush Creek Twp. 1,195 1,231 1,236 +41 3.4%

Franklin Twp. 1,098 1,167 1,110 +12 1.09%

Green Twp. 704 782 651 -53 -7.5%

Jefferson Twp. 1,022 1,024 1,046 +24 2.3%

Liberty Twp. 1,400 1,816 1,965 +565 40.3%

Manchester Twp. 2,393 2,140 2,052 -341 -14.24%

Meigs Twp. 3,701 3,753 3,905 +204 5.5%

Monroe Twp. 657 735 686 +27 4.4%

Oliver Twp. 865 1,246 1,319 - +454 52.4% Scott Twp. 1,920 2,053 2,180 +260 13.5%

Sprigg Twp. 1,499 1,639 1,867 +368 24.54%

Tiffin Twp. 5,144 5,075 5,560 +416 8.08%

Wayne Twp. 1,147 1,273 1,304 +157 13.6%

Winchester Twp. 1,764 1,984 2,208 +444 25.1% Source: ODSA U.S. Census data 15 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

State projections in Table 2.3, however, have the county decreasing in population through 2040. In comparison, only Highland and Pike Counties in Ohio and Mason County in Kentucky are projected to increase in population, though moderately.

Table 2.3 Adams Co and Adjacent Counties Population Projections

1990 2000 2010 2013 2020 2030 2040

Adams Co 25,371 27,330 28,550 28,105 28,380 28,100 27,520

Brown Co 34,966 42,285 44,846 44,264 45,850 45,630 44,090

Highland Co 35,728 40,875 43,589 43,299 44,320 44,720 44,030

Pike Co 22,249 27,695 28,709 28,367 29,000 29,420 29,970

Scioto Co 80,327 79,195 79,499 78,153 77,430 75,520 77,660

Lewis Co, KY 13,029 14,092 13,870 13,859 13,899 13,637 13,097

Mason Co, KY 16,666 16,800 17,490 17,278 18,419 19,031 19,265

Total 228,336 248,272 256,553 253,325 257,298 256,058 255,632

Source: ODSA population projections, and Kentucky Data Center projections.

Collectively, these seven counties experienced a 12.36% increase in population representing 28,217 people between 1990 and 2010. The 2040 projections from a starting base of 2010, have these counties losing 921 persons (0.36%), a modest decrease.

16 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Table 2.4 Age of Population

1990 2000 2010 Change (1990-2010) Total Pop 25,371 27,330 28,550 +3,179 12.53% Under 5 1,842 1,756 1,924 +82 4.45% 5-9 2,009 2.051 2,000 -9 -0.44% 10-14 1,695 (10-13) 2,120 1,980 N/A 15-19 1,806 (14-17) 1,979 1,964 N/A 20-24 2,450 (18-24) 1,681 1,527 N/a 25-34 3,662 3,571 3,152 -510 -13.92% 35-44 3,408 4,140 3,828 +420 12.32% 45-54 2,751 3,612 4,264 +1,513 54.99 55-59 1,157 1,481 1,977 +820 70.87% 60-64 1,156 1,296 1,704 +548 47.40% 65-74 1,971 2,030 2,451 +480 24.35% 75-84 1,077 1,201 1,331 +254 23.58% 85+ 387 412 448 +61 15.76% Median Age 32.8 36.3 39.6 +6.8 20.73% White 25,258 26,721 27,882 +2,624 Black 23 48 87 +64 278% Hispanic 40 175 243 +203 507% In Group Qtrs 366 342 338 -28 -7.65% Institutionalized N/A 214 245 +31 14.48% Non-institutionalized N/A 128 93 -35 -27.34%

As depicted in Table 2.4, Adams County has experienced a 12.53% growth between 1990 and 2010. The most significant increase occurred with the 45-54 and 55-59 age groups at 55% and 71% respectively. This is also reflected in the 21% increase in the median age going from 32.8 in 1990 to 39.6 in 2010. The graph below shows the continuing trend of a growing senior population in the county. 17 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

2012 Demographic Projection Graph – Chart 2.1

Source: The Center for Community Solutions

As shown in Table 2.5, the number of households increased by Householdonly 3% between 1990 Data and 2010. The largest gain included those households that were female head with children 18 and under (29%), female head (22%), and those with persons 65 and older (17%).

Table 2.5 Adams County Household Data

2000 2010 2009-2013 (change from 2000)

Total households 10,501 11,147 10,816 +315 2.9%

Family households 7,616 7,793 7,729 +113 1.48%

With own children under 18 yrs of age 3,570 3,225 3,408 -162 -4.5%

Female head with no husband 1,095 1,349 1,337 +242 22.1%

With own children under 18 yrs of age 665 756 860 +195 29.32% Households with individuals 65 and over living 1,159 1,248 1,302 +143 12.33% alone Households with individuals 18 and over 3,891 3,735 3,777 -144 -2.92%

Households with individuals 65 and over 2,627 3,065 3,073 +466 16.97%

Average hshld size 2.57 2.53 2.59 0.02 0.77%

Average family size 3.03 3.01 3.09 0.06 1.9%

18 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Poverty- Individuals As shown in Table 2.6, the number of individuals living at or below the poverty level increased by 1,983 or 42% between 2000 and 2013.

Table 2.6 Poverty- Individuals

2000 2009-2011 2013 (change from 2000)

4,687 (17.4%) 6,495 (23%) 6,670 (24.1%) +1,983 42.30%

Housing Occupancy As shown in Table 2.7 below, throughout the years, Adams County has remained a predominantly owner-occupied community at 73%. Source: The Center for Table 2.7 Housing Occupancy Community Solutions

2000 2010 2009-2013 (change from 2000)

Total hsg units 11,822 12,978 12,867 +1,045 8.8%

Occupied units 10,501 11,147 10,816 +315 2.9%

Vacant Units 1,321 1,831 2,051 +730 55.26% Vac-seasonal, recreational and/or occasional use 431 533 853 +422 97.9% Tenure Owner-Occupied 7,755 7,946 7,914 +159 2.05% Renter-Occupied 2,746 3,201 2,902 +156 5.68%

Ave. Hshld size for owner-occupied 2.59 2.55 2.65 +0.06 2.3%

Ave. Hshld size for renter-occupied 2.52 2.49 2.45 -0.07 -2.7%

Median Hshld income $29,315 $32,791 $35,678 $6,363 21.7%

Median value owner-occupied home $67,400 $91,500 $92,900 $25,500 37.83%

Median monthly mortgage payment $673 $979 $984 +311 46.21%

Median monthly rent $381 $531 $518 +137 35.95% 19 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Housing Units Most of the county’s housing stock is comprised of single-family structures. Please see Table 2.8. In 2013, there were 8,840 units representing 69% of the total number of units. Mobile homes make up 26% of the total units.

Table 2.8 Housing Units

2000 2010 2009-2013 (change from 2000)

Total units 11,822 12,999 12,867 +1,045 8.8%

1 unit detached 7,792 9,059 8,764 +972 12.47%

1 unit attached 54 81 76 +22 40.7%

Duplex 179 89 107 -72 -40.22%

3-4 units 201 226 219 +18 8.9%

5-9 units 100 119 121 +21 21%

10-19 units 210 38 23 -15 -39.47%

20 plus 210 177 157 -53 -25.23%

Mobile homes 3,162 3,173 3,378 +216 6.83%

Boat, RV, Van 86 37 22 -64 -74.41%

Lacking complete plumbing 294 49 56 -238 -80.95%

Lacking complete kitchen 200 93 85 -115 -57.50%

No phone service 857 514 448 -409 -47.42%

Age of Housing In 2013, there were 6,787 structures that were built in 1979 or earlier. This represents about 53% of the counties total number of units. These homes are 36 years old and older and many are probably in need of mechanical and structural upgrades. For those houses built prior to 1978, there is also the likelihood that they may be contaminated with lead-based paint.

20 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Table 2.9 Age of Housing

2000 2010 2009-2013 (change from 2000)

2010 & later N/A N/A 46 N/A

2000-2009 N/A 1,187 1,336 +149 12.55%

1990-1999 2,460 2,701 2,691 +231 9.39%

1980-1989 1,926 1,887 2,007 +81 4.2%

1970-1979 2,375 2,333 2,254 -121 -5.09%

1960-1969 1,113 1,035 962 -151 -13.56%

1940-1959 1,536 1,717 1,450 -86 -5.59%

1939 & earlier 2,412 2,139 2,121 -291 -12.06%

Schools Adams County has 10 schools with an enrollment of 5,057 students. There The tenth school is the Adams County Christian School in West Union are two local school districts, Ohio Valley and Manchester. Ohio Valley has founded in 1981. This on-line school offers classes for K-12 grades and has seven schools serving children from kindergarten to the twelfth grade. a current enrollment of 91 students. Current enrollment is 4,086. The schools include three high schools: North Adams, Peebles and West Union and three elementary schools: North Taxes Adams, Peebles and West Union. The district also has a vocational school, Adams County has a 7.25% sales tax of which it keeps 1.50% of it. The real the Ohio Valley Career and Technical School in West Union. estate conveyance fee is $4.00 per thousand dollars of the sales price. It also has a 3% lodging tax. Of the five main villages, only Manchester and Manchester Local has two schools, a high school and an elementary West Union have a 1% income tax. school with a total enrollment of 880. In 1997, with major funding from the Ohio School Facilities Commission, all four new high schools were built: North Adams, Peebles, West Union and Manchester. 21 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 2–Current Conditions Chapter 2–Current

Adams County is located in the Appalachian region of Southern Ohio. It Summaryis rural, sparsely populated and somewhat isolated having no convenient access to an interstate. Its workforce lags behind its neighboring counties in educational attainment and income. It also has a higher number of people living at or below the federal poverty level and a higher number of people dependent on transfer payments (public assistance).

The County’s topography and terrain limits development to the central, north central, northwest and southwestern areas. Part of this is the result of limited water, sewer and gas service.

Despite some population growth that occurred between 1990 and 2010 in the central, north central, northwestern and southwestern areas of the county, demographic projections call for a continual decrease in population over the next twenty-five years.

The county’s assets, however, provide it with enormous opportunities and include the Ohio River, its Appalachian roots, Amish Culture and the abundant outdoor recreational amenities consisting of natural preserves, state forests, trails, historic sites and the Serpent Mound State Memorial. It is these assets that will help Adams County generate economic growth in the future.

22 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 3 Economy of Adams County

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Chapter 3 Economy of Adams County

In this chapter, a description of the workforce, employment status, the types of industry, industry clusters, the county’s role in the region, and the existing economic development delivery mechanisms will be described.

The US Census describes the workforce as all individuals 16 years old at or below poverty level increased to 24% and the number of persons Adamsand older. As Countyshown in Table Workforce 3.1, in 2000, the county had 21,010 people supported by transfer payments increased as well. In the appendix, a that were 16 and over. Of those, 12,232 were in the civilian workforce listing of the full and part-time employment figures by major industry for with 11,297 employed and 935 (7.6%) unemployed. From the American the county for the period from 2003 to 2013 can be found. From American Community Survey data for 20009-2013, the workforce population Community Survey Data, the following table compares the Adams County increased by almost 5%, however the civilian workforce decreased by workforce for the years 2000 and 2013. a little under 2%. Unemployment, however spiked to 15.4%. Persons

Table 3.1 Adams County Workforce

Workforce 2000 2009-2013 (change from 2000) Population over 16 yrs old 21,010 22,033 +1,023 4.86% In labor force 12,237 12,014 -223 -1.82% Civilian labor force 12,232 12,014 -218 -1.78% Employed 11,297 10,159 -1,138 -10% Unemployed 935 1,855 +920 +98.39% Percent of civilian force 7.6% 15.44% Armed forces 5 0 Not in labor force 8,773 10,019 +1,246 +14.20% Poverty & Transfer Payments Persons at or below poverty 4,689 (16.4%) of total pop. 6,670 (24.1%) of total pop. Persons supported by transfer payments* 6,654 (24.4%) of total pop. 9,736 (34.7%) of total pop. *social security, supplemental social security, retirement, other public assistance 1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Table 3.3 Educational Attainment Adams County has historically had a higher unemployment rate compared to the state and the country. Factors such as types and 2009-2013** Unemployment Rate Educational Attainment 2000* availability of businesses and industries in the area, the state, regional (change from 2000) and national economy, skills and educational levels of the workforce, and Population over 25 years 17,775 19,141 +1,366 7.68% locational attributes all play into the unemployment rate of a community. In Table 3.2 below, the unemployment rates of the county between 2001 Less than 9th grade 2,187 1,863 -324 -14.7% and 2014 are shown and compared to the state and the US. 9-12th grade no diploma 3,387 2,594 -793 -23.4%

Table 3.2 Adams County Unemployment Rate from 2001–2014 HS or equivalency 7,899 8,438 +539 6.8% Some college, no degree 2,208 3,032 +824 37.3$ Year Adams County Ohio United States 2001 7.4% 4.4% 4.8% Associate’s degree 808 1,189 +381 47.1% 2002 9.6% 5.7% 5.8% Bachelor’s degree 786 1,052 +266 33.8% 2003 9.7% 6.2% 6.0% Graduate/professional 500 973 +473 94.6% 2004 9.3% 6.1% 5.6% Percent HS grad or 68.6% 76.7% +8.1% 11.8% 2005 8.2% 5.0% 5.2% higher Percent bachelor’s or 2006 7.5% 5.4% 4.7% 7.2% 10.6% +3.4% 47.2% higher 2007 7.6% 5.6% 4.7% 2008 9.3% 6.6% 5.8% *U.S. Census Data ** American Community Survey Data 2009 14.2% 10.1% 9.7% 2010 14.1% 10.1% 9.7% However, in comparison to its neighboring counties, Adams County had 2011 12.7% 8.8% 9.6% 23% of adults without a high school diploma compared to 13% for its neighbors in Ohio and Kentucky. The number of people with college 2012 12.6% 7.4% 8.1% degrees was at 11% for Adams County and 24% for the other counties. In 2013 12.7% 7.5% 7.4% regards to the white collar workforce, Adams County had 47% compared 2014 9.1% 5.7% 6.2% to 58% for the bordering counties. Not having a community college or four Source: Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics year university within the county has hampered workforce development opportunities. Educational attainment is one attribute that describes a community’s workforce. A workforce with a higher number of high school and college graduates will attract employers seeking a more skilled labor force. As seen in the chart below, the county has made great progress in all categories 2 over the last ten years. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

The workers in Adams County on for 2009-2013, the percentage of private wage and salaried Commutingaverage spend a little to over Work one hour a workers stayed the same at 75.1%, government employment day commuting to work and back. This is increased to 16.9%, and the self-employed dropped to 7.9%. a little less than the 1 hour and 18 minutes spent by workers in neighboring counties. Table 3.5 Adams County Class of Workers Additionally, 37% of Adams County workers 2009-2013** commute to jobs outside the county. 2000* (change from 2000)

Table 3.4 Adams County Commuting Patterns Civilian employed, 16 & over 11,297 10,159 -1,138 -10% 2009-2013** Private wage and salary 8,518 7,635 -883 -10.3% 2000* (change from 2000) Government worker 1,493 1,718 +225 15% Workers 16 yrs 11,133 9,981 -1,152 -10.4% and over Self Employed Car, truck, van 8,452 7,991 -461 -5.45% In own unincorporated drove alone 1,174 775 -399 -33.9% Businesses Carpooled 1,162 1,108 -54 -4.6% Unpaid family workers 112 31 -81 -72.3% Public transportation 93 68 -25 -26.8%

Walked 331 168 -163 -49.2% *U.S. Census Data **American Community Survey Data Other 128 147 +19 14.8%

Mean travel time 36.8 minutes 32.3 minutes -4.5 -12.2% Employed civilian pop. The U.S. Census categorizes occupations by the following six 11,297 10,159 -1,138 -10% over 16 Occupationsemployment areas. Within this 10-13 year period, the number of management and professional jobs increased by 557 representing a *U.S. Census Data 24% hike. Service jobs increased by 195 for a 10.7% increase, and the **American Community Survey Data combined category of farming, fishing, forestry, constructing, mining and maintenance dropped by 496 (25.7%) jobs.

The majority of workers are in the private wage and salaried category. ClassIn 2000, they of madeWorker up 75.4% of all civilian workers with government workers making up 13.21% and the self-employed 11.38%. From ACS data 3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Table 3.6 Adams County Occupations

Occupations 2000* 2009-2013** (change from 2000)

Mgmt, professional and related 2,307 2,864 +557 24.1%

Service occupations 1,819 2,014 +195 10.7%

Sales and office 2,129 1,828 -301 -14.1%

Farming, fishing, and forestry 175 [combined with construction, (Farming, fishing and forestry category now combined with extraction and maintenance] construction, extraction and maintenance)

1,750 with the 175 jobs from Construction, extraction, and Maintenance 1,429 -321 -16.6% above this number is now 1,925

Production, transportation, and material moving 3,117 2,042 -1,075 -34.4%

*U.S. Census Data **American Community Survey Data Employer By Sector aSource: The Center for Community Solutions

To classify the types of businesses and industries, the U.S. Census IndustryBureau and most other federal agencies use the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). This system was developed in 1997 by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to replace the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) System. The NAICS system was developed jointly by the U.S. Economic Classification Policy Committee, Canada and Mexico as a result of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). In Table 3.7 below are the number of establishments by industrial category for Adams County for the years 1999, 2002 and 2012.

4 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Table 3.7 Adams County Businesses in 1999, 2002 and 2012

Number of Establishments 1999 2002 2012 (Change from 1999) All Sectors 425 434 372 -53 12.47% Forestry, fishing, hunting & agricultural support 3 Mining, quarry, oil & gas 1 4 2 +1 +100% Utilities 3 3 4 +1 +33% Construction 48 42 34 -14 -29% Manufacturing 38 34 24 -14 -36% Wholesale Trade 8 11 9 +1 +12.5% Retail Trade 102 97 77 -25 -24.5% Transportation & warehousing 14 15 13 -1 -7% Information 7 6 8 +1 +14% Finance and Insurance 25 27 22 -3 -12% Real Estate, Rental and Leasing 10 15 8 -2 -20% Professional, Scientific and Technical Services 25 27 26 +1 +4% Mgmt of companies 2 1 1 -1 -50% Administrative & Support and waste mgmt. & 5 10 4 -1 -20% remediation Education 1 2 6 +5 +500% Healthcare and social Assistance 39 44 49 +10 +25.6% Arts, Entertainment and Recreation 6 6 6 No change Accommodation and Food Service 36 41 34 -2 -5.5% Other except public administration 43 46 45 +2 +4.6%

Construction, manufacturing, and retail combined, experienced a From the NAICS county business pattern reports, the number loss of 53 establishments during this timeframe, while Education and of employees by each industrial category is listed below for the Healthcare gained 15 new businesses. years 1999 and 2012. 5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Table 3.8 Number of Employees by Business Type

1999 2012 (change from 1999) Total Number of Employees 4,663 7,961 +3,298 +70.7% Agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting 6 Mining 67 1 Utilities 74 518 +444 +600% Construction 212 478 +266 +125% Manufacturing 1,047 657 -390 -37.24% Wholesale trade 87 196 +109 +125% Retail trade 1,001 1,293 +292 +29% Transportation& warehousing 272 Information 50 90 +40 +80% Finance and insurance 157 176 +19 +12% Real Estate, Rental & Leasing 77 113 +36 +46.7% Professional, scientific, administration and waste mgmt. 99 94 -5 -5% Mgmt of companies 21 Adm & support & waste mgmt. & remediation 15 22 +7 +46% Education 787 Healthcare and Social Ass’t 783 1,022 +239 +30.5% Arts, entertainment and recreation 25 42 +17 +68% Accommodation & Food Service 681 673 -8 -1.17% Other services (except public administration) 116 559 +443 +381% Public administration 811

The industries that gained the most employees included: Utilities with Adams County occurrence but a regional one as reported by the twelve 444, the “Other” category with 443, Retail with 292 and Healthcare with county Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission. Between 2000 239. The industry with the most significant loss was manufacturing with and 2006-2010 ACS estimates, the region lost 10,133 manufacturing jobs a decrease of 390 jobs (37%). The loss of manufacturing was not just an representing an 18.6% decrease. 6 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

AdamsTable 3.9 County Adams County Top Top Ten Ten EmployersEmployers 2012 Name of Business Business Type Number of Employees Dayton Power & Light Manufacturing 519

Ohio Valley Schools Education 447

General Electric Manufacturing 355

Adams Co Reg. Medical Center Healthcare and Social Assistance 307

Local Government Local Government 296

Wal-Mart Retail 275

COMMAC Foods Retail 150

Adams-Brown Econ. Opportunities, Inc. Service 149

Adams Co Manor Healthcare/Social Service 125

Manchester Local School District Education 99

Source: Adams County Economic and Community Development Office

Adams County is one of twelve counties that belongs to the Ohio development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, RegionalValley Regional DevelopmentPerspective Commission (OVRDC). OVRDC is a public and local government. Created by an act of Congress in 1965, ARC regional planning commission created in 1967 under 713.21 of the Ohio is composed of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a Revised Code. OVRDC serves as the regional economic and community federal co-chair, who is appointed by the president. Local participation development agency coordinating federal, state, and local resources for is provided through multi-county local development districts. ARC twelve counties in southern Ohio. These counties include: Adams, Brown, provides funding for projects that meet their current four strategic goals. Clermont, Fayette, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto ∙∙Increase job opportunities and per capita income in Appalachia to and Vinton (please see map 3.1 OVRDC Service Area). reach parity with the nation OVRDC is also the designated local development district for the Federal ∙∙Strengthen the capacity of the people of Appalachia to compete in the global economy Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). ARC is a regional economic 7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

∙∙Develop and improve Appalachia’s infrastructure to make the region economically competitive ∙∙Build the Appalachian Development Highway System to reduce Appalachia’s isolation For planning purposes, ARC uses an economic classification system based on three year unemployment rates, per capita market income and poverty rates. The classifications are Distressed, At-Risk, Transitional, Competitive and Attainment. Economic Classifications ∙∙Distressed category are those counties ranked as the worst 10% of the nation’s counties. ∙∙At-Risk classification are those counties ranked between the worst 10% and 25% of nation’s counties. ∙∙Transitional category are those counties ranked between the worst 25% and best 25% of the nation’s counties. ∙∙Competitive counties are those ranked between the best 10% and 25% of the nation’s counties. demographic trends, utility ∙∙Those counties labeled as having reachedAttainment , are those ranked as being within the best 10% of the nation’s counties. and infrastructure needs, land use, industry clusters, and goals, strategies and In 2010, Adams County was classified as an At-Risk County and in 2013, objectives for future economic development. as a Distressed one. The CEDS also includes a set of prioritized projects for EDA funding consideration based on the full plan and subsequent OVRDC is also the regional economic development district for the U.S. annual plan updates. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA). EDA was established in 1965 under the Public Works and Economic In 2013, OVRDC initiated a planning effort to become a Regional Development Act. One of the primary factors used to provide assistance Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) under the auspices of the is the unemployment rate for the county or region. The emphasis of Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). As a designated RTPO, assistance is to finance the infrastructure needs of the private sector for OVRDC will be able to work with ODOT and applicable Metropolitan the creation of jobs. To be eligible for EDA funding, a locale or region Planning Organizations (MPOs), such as the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana must prepare a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Regional Council of Governments (OKI), to help develop transportation The CEDS is an economic development plan for the region that includes plans and prioritize highway projects that incorporates the need of the 12 a thorough description of the economy including types of businesses, county OVRDC planning district. employment trends, community assets, workforce description, 8 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

Until recently, Adams County contributed heavily into the OVRDC Region’s first four clusters: Agriculture, Healthcare, Wood and From the 2012 CEDS, the economic industry clusters for the region manufacturing. Between 2000 and 2006-2010 ACS estimates, the Economicincluded the following Industry five industries: Clusters region lost 10,133 manufacturing jobs representing an 18.5% loss. With the recent designation of the 18,000 acre Edge of Appalachia Nature 1. Agriculture Related Businesses Conservancy, Adams County lost hundreds of acres of forest lands that 2. Healthcare Related Businesses previously contributed to logging and wood related industries. During this same period, Adams County, lost 459 workers in the agriculture 3. Wood Industry and related Businesses industry representing a 26% loss. The County’s Healthcare Industry 4. Total Manufacturing remains robust increasing by 239 workers between 1999 and 2012, a 30.5% increase; during this same timeframe Utilities increased by 600% 5. Freight and Related Businesses gaining 440 workers and Retail increased by 292 workers (29%). From the 2012 OVRDC CEDS “Economic clusters are businesses with some similarity in industry, operation, or technology. These businesses are generally located within Tourism in Adams County is hugely important and will continue to be a specific geographical area and may be part of the same supply chain or Tourismso in the future. Given the county’s abundant outdoor recreational may even be direct competitors. The clustering of these businesses can amenities and attractions and the surge of the outdoor recreation be mutually beneficial through the training or development of a particular economy in the United States, Adams County is poised to take workforce with common skill sets, the creation of research institutions advantage of this phenomena. In the United States, from 2012 to serve these businesses or the location of support services specific to figures (from the Outdoor Industry Association), the outdoor that cluster. Increased competition may lead firms to collaborate in ways recreational economy was responsible for 6.1 million jobs, not previously considered and may result in increased productivity, had $646 billion in recreational spending, generated efficiency and creativity. Economic development practitioners believe $39.9 billion in federal tax revenue and $39.7 billion in that nurturing industry clusters is advantageous for regional state and local taxes. For Ohio, the number of jobs economies because it leverages a region’s specialization in were 196,000, spending was at $17.4 billion, certain industries affecting output, suppliers, enhancing salaries and wages accounted for $5.1 billion labor skills and most importantly creating more jobs.” and state and local tax contributions came to $1.3 billion. For 2014, The Adams County’s industry clusters include: Adams County Travel & Visitors Bureau 1. Healthcare reported $31.8 million in tourism revenue, 2. Retail representing $12.3 million in wages, $4.5 million in taxes and employment of 549 workers. 3. Manufacturing In 2011, the county had $29.1 million in tourist sales 4. Utilities that provided $7.5 million in wages, $3.7 million in taxes 5. Accommodations/Food service and employment for 475 workers. Now that the economy is 9 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

“Occupations over the years have increased in the management/professional and services fields”

on the rebound and with additional advertising Start Program; and marketing resources, the potential exists for Weatherization, the county to exceed the 8.5% increase in tourist Microenterprise sales that it experienced over the three year period Small Business between 2011 and 2014. Assistance, Job Training, Health Care, Senior Services, Recycling and Housing Assistance. ABCAP employs around 150 people and has ten The Economic Development offices in their two county service area. Assistance Delivery Mechanisms in Their headquarters are in Brown County in One important factor that determines how successful a community has Georgetown, Ohio. Adamsbeen and/or willCounty continue to be in the future, in regards to nurturing existing businesses and recruiting new ones, is the delivery mechanism Adams County Chamber of Commerce – The of relevant economic development resources (e.g. grants, loans, chamber was established in 1989 and has seventy-five programs, services, and economic incentives). By this we mean the members. It is staffed by a part-time director. In addition organizations that are currently handling these activities in the county to the pre-requisite chamber activities, the office acts as an ombudsman and the caliber of their staffing. Assistance with economic development to its members to access various local, regional, and state services and activities are provided by the following organizations in the county. benefits. The Chamber was instrumental in the creation of the Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau. The County Economic and Community Development Office – This two person office provides assistance to existing businesses, recruits Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau – this organization was created new businesses, administers small business loans, administers the in September 1998 and is partially funded by a three percent (3%) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and related lodging tax enacted by the county commissioners in February 1998. This programs and services offered by the Ohio Development Services source of revenue brings in between $36,000 to $40,000 annually to Agency (ODSA) that include housing, downtown revitalization, the organization. The visitor’s bureau, with two full time staff has done infrastructure and job creation opportunities. extraordinary work in promoting the county and dramatically increasing tourist dollars. Their unique and engaging website along with its regional The Adams Brown Community Action Partnerships (ABCAP) – This television ads have helped bring over $31.8 million in sales to the county community action agency, created in 1965 provides a variety of services in 2014. in both Adams and Brown Counties. These services include: the Head 10 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

The Adams County Community below the federal poverty level and receiving public Improvement Corporation (CIC) – This assistance. Educational attainment has improved over non-profit corporation was created in the years but still lags behind its neighboring counties March 2001 to be a catalyst and conduit for and the state as a whole. job creating development in the county. It is staffed by the county’s Economic and Community Occupations over the years have increased in the management/ Development Office. The CIC was instrumental professional and services fields. Decreases occurred in sales, forest in acquiring the needed land for the Columbus products, mining and production/transportation and material moving. Industries manufacturing facility in West Union From an industry perspective there have been losses in manufacturing in 2004. Columbus Industries relocated to Adams County from Rock Hill, South Carolina, manufactures OVRDC Service Area –Map 3.1 various kinds of air, paint and industrial filters, and has facilities worldwide. The West Union plant employs 100 workers.

Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) – This regional planning commission is both the designated development district for the Federal Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the economic development district for the Federal Economic Development Administration (EDA). OVRDC has a ten member professional staff and serves as the conduit for various State and Federal grant and loan programs. For EDA funding, OVRDC maintains the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the twelve county area as well.

The county has experienced slight but gradual Summarydecreases in its workforce since 2000 and has maintained its relative high unemployment rate compared to its adjacent counties and the state. This has resulted in more individuals living at or

11 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 3–Economy of Adams County Chapter 3–Economy

(but less than the region as a whole), mining (more than the region), forestry and fishing. Gains have occurred in healthcare, utilities, retail, construction and arts and entertainment.

The current regional economic clusters as reported by OVRDC include agriculture, healthcare, wood industry, freight/transportation and manufacturing. Adams County business clusters include healthcare, retail, manufacturing, utilities and accommodations/food service. For those clusters that pertain mostly for Adams County (utilities, retail and accommodations/food service) specific local strategies must continue to be strengthened and expanded for maximum effect.

Tourism is an integral economic development component for the county since it generates jobs, business activity and strengthens the market demand for more retail, lodging, restaurants and other related outdoor recreational offerings (biking, equestrian trails, etc.).

The County’s economic development delivery mechanism is lightly staffed and is somewhat indicative of the county’s rural nature and low population size. Additional resources to the county’s Economic and Community Development Office for training and more staffing would reap major benefits for the county in the long run.

12 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 4 Economic Development Strategies

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

Chapter 4 Economic Development Strategies

Until this plan, Adams County has followed the economic development strategies outlined in its 2011 Land Use Plan and the CEDS Plans prepared by OVRDC and subsequent updates. Additionally, it has followed various community and economic development policies recommended by the State in regards to the use of federal Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) funds.

These CDBG policies and strategies were included in the county’s institutional uses along SR 32 near Winchester, Seaman and Peebles. The Community Assessment Strategy (CAS) and now the Community 7,000 acre GE Jet Engine testing facility, located southeast of Peebles was Development Implementation Strategy (CDIS). The CDIS is a compilation of also pointed out. This testing site has grown considerably since it began local community and economic development needs as presented by local operations in 1955. These same areas were pegged for future villages, townships and non-profit agencies. The CDIS will help the county commercial/industrial development. The Amish area in allocate its CDBG resources to areas of need on a prioritized basis. Oliver Township along Wheat Ridge Road was categorized separately and was also designated as an The 2011 Land Use Plan, in the Economic Development area for growth and future development. Chapter, had a four part vision statement: “Adams County’s citizens and leaders will: The FY2012 CEDS Goals, Objectives and Strategies developed for the twelve ∙∙ Support an economy that provides multi-skilled employment county OVRDC region also includes opportunities for all residents the highlighted initiatives deemed ∙∙ Promote a quality of life enhanced by thriving as a priority by Adams County. businesses and an abundant labor market These overall regional set of goals and objectives serve as ∙∙ Respect and preserve our Appalachian culture and rural the macro development initiatives atmosphere by promoting tourism and the wise use of for the twelve county OVRDC area. natural, agricultural, and economic resources Success at this regional level benefits ∙∙ Create an environment that encourages, values and supports Adams County specifically through the entrepreneurship.” transportation, infrastructure, broadband, The Land Use Study also identified the existing county employment data research and GIS/GPS services. Such regional centers: along U.S. Route 52, where the Dayton, Power and Light (DPL) initiatives that can be better achieved through a facilities are located; the commercial and industrial uses along SR 41 multi-county effort. and SR 125 in and around West Union, and the commercial/industrial/ 1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

The goals, objectives and strategies developed for this Economic Development/Tourism plan are the micro initiatives solely for the benefit of the county. These set of initiatives were developed by the planning committee cognizant of the CEDS and other planning efforts. These new items also reflect the feedback from the various community outreach activities held over the past year and a half throughout the county.

The current CEDS has three broad goals: to Lead; Collaborate and to Follow.

Goal 1. Lead 3. Identify economic clusters to recruit 5. Work to make broadband services compatible industries and suppliers. available and affordable to residents 1.CEDS Improving Goals, the perception Objectives of and Strategies and businesses in the Region as feasible. Southern Ohio targeting site selection Strategy 1. Conduct economic cluster analysis consultants as a way to attract growth. to determine clusters in the region to target. Strategy 1. Continue to support the efforts Strategy 1. Develop and maintain a website of Horizon with the implementation of the Strategy 2. Use information gathered through to market the region’s industrial/commercial “middle-mile” redundant ring fiber optic Retention and Expansion Study, analyze and properties and strengths, such as labor force, broadband network in 34 Ohio counties provide such information to local economic education and incentives. including all OVRDC counties. development officials. Strategy 2. Assist counties and municipalities Strategy 2. Work with ConnectOhio and 4. Continue small business support and potential “last-mile providers” to increase with development/improvements of fully nurture budding entrepreneurs. serviced industrial/commercial sites/buildings access to broadband technology to as many Strategy 1. Continue operation and continual (utilities, technology, roads, etc.) to standards OVRDC businesses and residents as possible. development of comprehensive web-based which allow successfully marketing of such searchable database of loan programs available 6. Provide assistance to communities properties. to entrepreneurs and small businesses in the with water and infrastructure improvements and upgrades. Strategy 3. Contact and gain the attention region. of site selection consultants and conduct Strategy 1. Assist communities in conducting Strategy 2. Continue operation of OVRDC “familiarization tours” of the region. an inventory of existing infrastructure and Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and developing 5 year capital improvement plans. 2. Retain and strengthen existing Economic Development Administration (EDA) businesses to protect current Revolving Loan Funds to serve entrepreneurs Strategy 2. Continue to be the first point workforce. and small business start-ups and expansions in of contact and assist local communities Strategy 1. Conduct baseline Retention and the region. in securing funding from the Appalachian Expansion Study in each OVRDC county. Regional Commission, Economic Development Strategy 3. Develop as necessary and feasible Administration and the Ohio Public Works Strategy 2. Link industries with available and new innovative means of capital access for Commission. appropriate resources, such as training, funding businesses and entrepreneurs. 2 sources, etc. (Identified by Retention and Expansion Study) POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

Strategy 3. Assist communities with 8. Assist non-profit healthcare Strategy 5. Schedule and conduct regular administration of Community Development providers with expansion of healthcare meetings of economic development and Block Grant Funding including but not services throughout the region business officials for a better understanding limited to the preparation of environmental Strategy 1. Assist healthcare providers in of their needs and to disseminate needed review records, financial management, and applying for funding to improve healthcare information to them from state and federal construction management. equipment that will better serve the needs of offices. our region. Strategy 4. Assist communities with Strategy 6. Continue efforts and collaboration environmental infrastructure improvements 9. Enhance OVRDC’s community with the other Ohio Local Development Districts needed for job creation and expansion as well outreach with member communities, to promote the Appalachian Region. as community/residential benefit. elected officials, area economic development organizations and funders. Strategy 7. Continue to work with JobsOhio, 7. Improve and expand transportation the Ohio Appalachian Business Council Strategy 1. Expand reach of E-newsletter system. (OABC), and the Appalachian Partnership for and publish at least 8 times a year, as well as Economic Growth (APEG) to create jobs, private Strategy 1. Promote designation of Rural continue and expand the OVRDC website and investment and return on public investment in Planning Organization (RPO) to give rural Facebook page. governments a larger voice in infrastructure the OVRDC Region. planning and provide a means of prioritizing Strategy 2. Conduct more shareholder and 10. Enhance OVRDC’s GIS and GPS projects on a regional basis. legislative meetings. systems to better serve the region Strategy 2. Promote completion of Appalachian Strategy 3. Improve media relations by Strategy 1. Provide infrastructure and utility Development Highway System in the OVRDC increasing the number of press releases mapping services to local governments and region. provided to the media. communities through the use of OVRDC’s geographic information system (GIS) and global Strategy 3. Participate and take lead as Strategy 4. Improve relations with area positioning system (GPS) with the option of necessary in meetings, provide assistance, business leaders by attending more Chamber web-based GIS for local communities. research, planning, and marketing to key of Commerce, CIC and Economic Development highway development committees and other meetings/functions. transportation projects in the region 3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

Strategy 2. Continue as a regional repository Goal 2- Collaborate including their repair, upgrade and/or for GIS and data for the OVRDC Region, expansion. obtaining and maintaining current GIS data 1. Improve the perception of Southern Ohio as a tourist and residential destination to 8. Conduct small business training for on the region and promoting the availability state and regional tourism officials and start-ups, business planning, marketing, of data from state, federal, and local sources. residents outside the area. government work, funding assistance and funder requirements, economic incentive Strategy 3. Continue to convene the OVRDC 2. Explore internships with area colleges to programs and exporting assistance. GIS User Group and act as a liaison to larger provide students access to economic and regional, state, and federal GIS groups community development efforts in the 9. Continue to monitor the Marcellus and Utica Shale activity in northeast Ohio to such as Appalachian Ohio Geospatial Data OVRDC region. assist with supply chain assistance and/or Partnership (AOGDP), Ohio Geographically 3. Conduct a Wage and Benefit Survey to to promote it in Southern Ohio. Referenced Information Program (OGRIP), promote the region’s workforce to attract Ohio Chapter of the Urban and Regional new interested businesses and industries. 10. Expand affordable childcare and senior Information Systems Association (URISA) and day care services to enhance and expand 4. Work with Job and Family Services and the region’s workforce. other groups. other agencies to link job training with needs of potential new businesses. 11. Promote and support regional GIS Strategy 4. Provide assistance and encourage applications such as the Location Base development of mapping services to OVRDC’s 5. Work to secure additional funds for road Response System, the Ohio Statewide county visitor bureaus to promote the and highway improvements along the Imagery Program, the U.S. Census, USDA region’s tourism assets to potential domestic regions highway system concentrating on Farm Services Agency, the National and international visitors. key corridors. Agricultural Imagery Program and other 6. Promote funding for development of applicable programs. Strategy 5. Continue to assist local intermodal transportation systems at key 12. Support local county GIS systems to communities with various economic and locations to encourage better utilization ascertain accurate data and information planning projects, land use planning, of rail, highway and barge facilities in the for parcel information and road business and economic analysis, hazard region. centerlines. Promote data standards mitigation studies, land capabilities and 7. Encourage better utilization of railways for cadastral development, 911 address green-way analysis, natural feature analysis, of both major and short line carriers development, infrastructure mapping, and transportation planning projects through GIS/ other GIS/GPS standards. 4 GPS mapping services. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

13. Promote and support GIS/GPS 5. Participate in multi-state transportation 2. Promoting roadway improvements and educational and training opportunities initiatives for I-73 and I-74 highways. upgrades along U.S. Route 52 (resurfacing, through partnerships and collaboration lighting, and intersection improvements at 6. Expand use of public transportation by all with groups like Appalachian Ohio State Route 136) citizens in the region. Geospatial Data Partnership, Ohio 3. Installation of Northern County Gas line Geographically Referenced Information 7. Support the continued operation and to spur development along State Route 32 Program, Ohio Chapter of URISA and Ohio expansion of local county airports in the and the northwest quadrant of the county. University- Voinovich Center to various region. local officials, communities, and GIS users For the CEDS, the entire membership of OVRDC from across the region. 8. Increase the number of adequate and affordable single-family housing units which consists of 175 members acts as the Full Commission for EDA planning purposes. This Goal 3. Follow in the region through the development of new structures and rehabilitation of membership is made up of representatives 1. Increase the number of Appalachian existing structures for both rental and from the entire twelve county region and companies competing for and winning the owner-occupied housing units. includes elected officials, private sector Governor’s Export Award. business people, and members of chambers of 9. Increase the amount of support services 2. Promote entrepreneurship through that are available to senior citizens. commerce, human services organizations, local mobilizing Angel Investors or alternate planning agencies, post-secondary education/ investment strategies. 10. Increase solid waste management labor/workforce development offices and services and recycling efforts and reduce minority individuals from all counties. Projects 3. Increase the enrollment of residents in the amount of tonnage of solid waste sent for the CEDS emanate from each of the vocational and technical education as well to landfills. twelve county caucuses, which are those as enrollment in college and university programs in the ORVRC region. Adams County FY2012 CEDS individuals that represent their county on the Full Commission. The projects or economic 4. Work with state and local Job and Family Priorities development initiatives are then sent to the Services offices and One-Stop Centers to The three economic development priorities twenty-two member CEDS Committee or facilitate needed training programs linking of Adams County were Strategy Committee which is responsible for workers and companies with educational the formulation of the CEDS. The daft CEDS is institutions. 1. Connecting Appalachia Broadband access for county businesses, institutions and residents 5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

Mission Statement then sent to the twenty-eight member executive Committee of the Full Adams County will promote and encourage growth, Commission for their review and approval. Adams County has fourteen outdoor recreational activities and eco-tourism, while individuals on the Full Commission that also serves as the county caucus. not compromising its unique natural assets, Amish and Additionally, the county has two representatives on the CEDS Committee Appalachian cultures and rural character. and two on the Executive Committee.

The Planning Committee developed the following Mission Statement that 2015reflected Economic the desires of the Development/Tourism majority of people that took part in the Plan key informant interviews and village focus groups.

Goals and Objectives A. Existing businesses and industries in the county will be retained 1. Whenever possible, Adams County will work with its existing businesses to help them with their facilities, buildings, machinery and equipment (M&E) upgrades, and/or with expansions to keep them in the County. Emphasis to be given to the county’s largest employers: DP&L, GE, COMMAC Foods and Columbus Industries. 2. Adams County will periodically survey its key businesses to assist them with re-investment and expansion opportunities. The County will use its internal information and OVRDC’s Retention and Expansion Study when completed. 3. The County will implement strategic business enhancement and economic development incentives to retain and expand existing 6 businesses. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

4. Adams County will concentrate its assistance to its top five sector D. The county’s current work force will be assisted with industries: Healthcare; Retail Trade; Manufacturing; Utilities; and educational instruction and job training Accommodation/Food Service. 1. The County will continue to work closely with JobsOhio, other B. New businesses and industries will be recruited workforce organizations and educational institutions to provide job training and placement assistance. 1. Adams County will continue its business recruitment strategies in collaboration with the Chamber, CIC, OVRDC, APEG and ODSA 2. Adams County will strive to maintain a high-quality, skilled and to attract new businesses and industries. Emphasis will be given competitive workforce that is flexible and responsive to business to those industries and businesses that strengthen, support and needs by supporting educational and job training programs. enhance the five key industry clusters in the county e.g. Healthcare, 1. The County will work with Southern State Community College to Utilities, Manufacturing, Retail and Accommodations/Food Service. support the addition of a satellite branch in the County. 2. New business recruitment strategies will be targeted and based on the recent market analyses recommendations and compatibility with E. Utility Availability (electric, gas, cable, broadband/ the county’s existing businesses and industry clusters. internet) will be expanded in areas without service and enhanced/expanded in key development corridors and sites 3. The County will continue to design and utilize targeted strategies to promote growth to attract new businesses and to create and incubate new 1. The County will promote the extension of electric, gas, cable entrepreneurial efforts. The CIC should be used more to acquire and high speed broadband connections throughout the county suitable sites and to work with the villages, chamber, OVRDC and targeting SR 32 (along Winchester, Seaman and Peebles), SR 52 APEG. (along Manchester) and SR 41 and SR 125 (near West Union). 4. The County should take advantage of the emerging outdoor recreational market in southwest Ohio and promote boating F. County water and sewer (sanitary and storm) services (kayaking, power boating, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boating); will be expanded to populated areas and along economic fishing, hunting, camping, Nature-based programs (birdwatching, development corridors and industrial park sites. nature plays and programs), outdoor skills (archery, geo-caching, 1. The county will extend water and sewer service throughout the rope courses), swimming, spray parks and splash pads, trail usage county but target areas along SR 32 (near Winchester, Seaman and (motorized ATV trails, paved bicycle trails, hiking, mountain biking), Peebles), SR 52 (near Manchester), and SR 41 (near West Union). and other activities/amenities (dog parks, picnic shelters, horseback riding, disc golf, zip lines and canopy tours). 2. The county will explore the expansion of its water district to include sanitary sewer service. C. Current Economic Development Incentives will be assessed, new ones explored, and if feasible, implemented G. County will maintain current listing of sites suitable for development (to include cost, location, owner information, 1. Adams County will enhance and/or develop new financial incentives topography, flood plains, wetlands, historical/archaeological, to assist existing businesses and to attract new ones. protected-conservancy) 2. Adams County will direct and/or refer interested business owners to 1. With mapping assistance from OVRDC, the county will facilitate appropriate places for business start-up counseling. the identification/assembling of developable sites for business 3. Adams County will continue to actively participate in the CEDS locations or relocation. Priority to be given to the county’s two planning process administered by OVRDC. 7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

industrial parks - the one along SR 32 west of Seaman, the HNL property with 159 acres and the Mills Pride Building (85,000 sf), ; and the CIC industrial park west of West Union along SR 41 (70 acres). 2. Those sites needing upgrades or extension of public infrastructure will also be identified and prioritized. 3. The county will solicit county-owned land to interested industrial developers and/or companies for job creating opportunities. H. County will explore and if feasible pursue the adoption of new regulatory provisions to protect county assets, guide development and improve the health, safety and general welfare of Adams County residents 1. The County will consider enacting a county-wide zoning ordinance based on an updated land use plan to protect natural assets, environmentally sensitive lands, and key corridors (SR 32, SR 41 between SR 125 and SR 136, U.S. Route 52 along Manchester, and SR 125 between SR 247 and SR 136) to guide future development in selected lands suitable for such uses. It is paramount that the county protect these natural areas and corridors from a proliferation of billboards, excessive signage, curb cuts, and undesirable land uses. 5. Prepare bikeway plan to connect major 2. The County should strive to update its Land Use Plan every five years population centers and existing major and its comprehensive plan every ten years. trails and other key attractions. 3. Consider enacting building code regulations. 6. Explore expansion of Alexander Salamon Airport I. Adams County will have an efficient and effective for tourism, charter flights for hunting/fishing, for industry, and Transportation system suitable for its current and future other economic development activities. needs 7. Explore development of marinas, transient docks and boating related 1. The county will maintain and upgrade its existing roadway network. amenities along the Ohio River with emphasis along the Manchester area. 2. The county will look at improving/upgrading the SR 32/136 intersection. 8. Work with Clermont and Brown Counties to reuse portions of the unused 40.7 mile Norfolk Southern rail line for use as a multi-purpose 3. Waggoner-Riffle Road will be shored-up and repaved. trail. 4. Problems along Wheat Ridge Road will be addressed (limiting truck 9. Continue to support the recommendations of the 2009 SR 32/US traffic, widening it, and building a walkway/buggy trail for the Amish 50/US 35 Corridor Study prepared by OVRDC and the Buckeye Hills- and tourists). Hocking Valley Regional Development District. The SR 32/US 50 corridor 8 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic “Enhance Healthcare/Social Services, Retail Trade, Manufacturing, Utilities and Accommodations/Food Service/Tourism Business Clusters.

impacts all twelve counties served by OVRDC and includes the area economic clusters, natural features, and culture. In essence, from Batavia and Milford in Clermont County eastward to Belpre an acknowledgement of place within its regional market. in Washington County. It also includes the corridor area along 1. Pursue applicable industries and businesses that enhance the SR 35 from northwest Ross County southeasterly to Gallipolis in county’s existing clusters: Healthcare/Social Services, Retail Gallia County. The corridor study assessed the existing economic Trade, Manufacturing, Utilities and Accommodations/Food development contributions of the area and identified future Service/Tourism. The Boulevard Market study identified upticks potential opportunities to enhance current businesses and in construction employment, accounting services, specialized industries and to recruit new ones to provide more jobs for freight trucking, and educational services. Also, there has been the area. a growing interest in the niche food industry that included J. The county will work with the Villages of local products grown and made by the Amish and area Manchester, Peebles, Seaman, West Union and growers directly supplying local restaurants with fresh Winchester to secure financing towards the home grown produce. implementation of applicable downtown 2. Work regionally to market county’s outdoor revitalization strategies. recreational amenities, attractions and eco- 1. Develop/install attractive gateway tourism attributes with Shawnee State signage compatible with county-wide Park and Lodge, Brush Creek State Forest, standards and illustrations/color schemes and the Serpent Mound State Memorial of the Travel and Visitors Bureau’s Barn Quilt through the Ohio Historical Society and others. logo. 3. Build a visitors center along the southside of SR 2. Adopt the Main Street Downtown Revitalization 32 near Winchester to promote tourism. four point program of Organization, Design, Economic 4. Use Ohio River as a major attraction for its role in the Restructuring and Promotion for the downtowns. historical development of Ohio and the Midwest, citing its role 3. Develop/implement a building improvement program with in the westward development of the United States. Such efforts economic incentives (partial grant funds and/or property tax may result in new museums and exhibits along the riverfront. abatement through the State’s Community Reinvestment Area 5. Develop and market the Ohio River with increased emphasis on Program). parks, trails, boat docks, marinas, fishing piers, bike rentals, kayak 4. Develop streetscape improvements to include new sidewalks, curbs, and canoe rentals and launches, cottages, cabins and restaurants. lighting, landscaping, trees, street furniture and street resurfacing. 6. Currently, Adams County has thirteen liquor permits all in the 5. Enhance connections/links between downtowns and nearby trails, southern part of the county along the Ohio River. There are nine bikepaths, tourist attractions and natural features such as Adams in the Village of Manchester and four in Green Township (located Lake, the Ohio River and Brush Creek. This will promote more in the southeastern part of the county). The rest of the county is business activity in the villages and increase tourism levels. dry. In order to obtain a liquor permit, the residents of the ward or precinct where the establishment is located must approve K. The county will pursue and develop new businesses and it through referendum. In order to promote more tourism, the recreational/tourism activities that complements its current existing “Blue Laws” in certain parts of the county should be 9 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 4–Economic Development Strategies Development Chapter 4–Economic

relaxed, especially in areas conducive to entice sit-down restaurants L. Strengthen the county’s delivery system of economic and other establishments with the option of serving beer, wine and development programs, services and incentives to better serve mixed drinks (the West Union, Seaman and Peebles areas). This existing and new businesses. issue presents moral and ethical ramifications, however, from an economic development perspective it must be considered. 1. Strengthen the Chamber of Commerce and the County Economic and The market study prepared for this plan by Community Development Office with additional resources for added Boulevard Strategies revealed that over half of training and staffing. Investment in these offices will greatly benefit Adams County’s Dining and Entertainment the county in the long run since they are the initial contact for business expenditures were spent outside the inquiries, liaisons with OVRDC, the State and other agencies and county. responsible for a myriad of grant work and grant administration. Some counties have earmarked all or a portion of their annual real estate transfer tax for economic development purposes (Wood and Lucas Counties). 2. Assess existing economic development programs, services and incentives to determine gaps and/or deficiencies and develop new programs to address need. Currently, all of Adams County is within an enterprise zone for partial tax relief for new business investments. TIFs and CRAs should also be considered. 3. Strengthen the County’s Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) to help with development initiatives throughout the county. 4. Enhance the resources and staffing of the Travel and Visitors Bureau to expand its marketing programs and outreach initiatives to attract more tourism in the county spurring the development of more lodging, restaurants, and retail opportunities. M. County should continue to maintain a current listing of available and applicable resources for community and economic development activities, projects and incentives. 1. A matrix of available resources should be updated jointly between the Adams County Economic and Community Development office and the Chamber to spur development opportunities in transportation, outdoor recreation, eco-tourism, environmental infrastructure, utility expansions and upgrades, and business assistance. 2. The updated matrix should be posted on county’s website. 10 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 5 Downtown Revitalization

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

The potential exists to better link the villages of Manchester, Peebles, Seaman, Chapter 5 Downtown Revitalization West Union and Winchester to the county amenities

This Chapter provides an array of implementation strategies that the County and the five villages can use to guide their downtown revitalization efforts. Given the existing trail The Trail Town Program in was launched in the mid 2000’s with funding from the Progress Fund, systems in the county, the many historic sites and abundant Trail Town Communities the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and acreage in the numerous natural areas and preserves, Natural Resources, the Allegany Trail Alliance, and the potential exists to better link these five villages the Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition. The to these county amenities and with expanded and program’s purpose is to ensure that trail new trail connections with each other. communities and businesses maximize the economic potential of the trail. The Program also works to Two similar and compatible methodologies will address trail-wide issues and opportunities be described, the Trail Town Redevelopment through regional cooperation and to build the Strategies, used by Pennsylvania, Ohio connection between “trail and town”. and other states, and the Main Street approach designed by the National From the 2005 report “Trail Towns – Trust for Historic Preservation that is Capturing Trail-Based Tourism - A used nationwide. Both approaches have the Guide for Communities in Pennsylvania” common goal of downtown revitalization. The prepared by the Allegheny Trail Alliance: Trail Town Strategies emphasize the community’s “Trail towns” are welcoming destinations along a link to established state, regional and national trails long-distance trail. Whether on a rail trail, towpath, systems and enhancing the needed amenities to trail water trail, or hiking trail- trail users can venture off users. Doing this generates more business in the towns. the trail to enjoy the scenery, services, and heritage of the The Main Street concept is more holistic and capitalizes on the nearby community with its own character and charm. It is a historic, cultural, architectural, economic and locational attributes safe place where both town residents and trail users can walk, of the community and surrounding area. find the goods and services they need, and easily access both trail and town by foot, bike or vehicle. In such a town, the trail is an integral and important part of the community. 1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

AdamsKey County Adams is a connecting County point to two Trailsmajor national trails: the American Discovery A trail town is a AmericanTrail and the North Discovery Country National Trail Scenic Trail linked by the Ohio Buckeye Trail. The vibrant place where American Discovery Trail is a 6,800 mile coast to coast non-motorized trail connecting people come together. Point Reyes National Seashore, California to Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware. In It may have a bike shop, an ice Ohio, this trail covers 524 miles and loops through the Davis Memorial, Pike Lake State cream parlor, casual restaurants, a Park, the Scioto Trail and Sinking Springs. In Adams County, the American Discovery grocery store, and quaint shops. It has wide Trail and the Buckeye Trail are Graphic 5.1 sidewalks, clean streets, bike racks, and benches at one and the same. This trail convenient locations. It has places to rest for the night. It runs from northern Sprigg generously meets the needs of both trail users and the town Township eastward through residents. A trail town is a friendly place that encourages trail Monroe, Brush Creek and Green users to visit and welcomes them with warm hospitality. Townships. The trail then goes Trail users want to explore interesting places in their travels and northward through Jefferson, will need services and amenities found in towns along the way. Meigs, Franklin and Bratton Townships. Basic elements of a “Trail Town” strategy include: ∙∙Enticing trail users to get off the trail and into town ∙∙Welcoming trail users by making information about the community readily available (at the trail, the internet, at The North Country visitor centers, magazines, etc.) Graphic 5.2 TrailNorth is a 4,600 Country mile trail Trail ∙∙Making strong and safe connections between the connecting North Dakota community and the trail to New York through ∙∙Educating local businesses on the economic benefits of Minnesota, Wisconsin, meeting trail tourist’s needs Michigan, Ohio and ∙∙Recruiting new businesses or expanding existing ones to Pennsylvania. In Ohio, the fill gaps in the goods or services that trail users need North Country Trail covers ∙∙Promoting the “trail friendly” character of the town 1,050 miles in a U shape route crossing through ∙∙Working with neighboring communities to promote the entire trail corridor(s) as a tourist destination the southern part of Adams County about one In addition to providing needed services and amenities to mile south of West Union trail users, trail towns can become staging areas for multi- parallel to the river from day sightseeing trips, boating, fishing, hunting and hiking Liberty Township east to excursions throughout Adams County, the surrounding Green Township. Another section crosses the northeastern corner of the county from the 2 counties and region. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Graphic 5.4 Walker Hill Summit northwest to the Potato Knob Summit. Both national trails connect at Beasley Park, near Tulip, and at the Shawnee Forest- southeast of Sunshine. Graphic 5.3

The Buckeye Trail is 1,444 Buckeyemiles long, completely Trail circles the state and hosts both the American Discovery Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail. In Adams County, the Buckeye Trail runs along Straight Creek Preserve, the Serpent Mound and The John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail is a thirty-two mile trail the Shawnee State Park Johncommemorating Hunt theMorgan route that ConfederateHeritage General Trail John Hunt Morgan and Shawnee State Forest. (nicknamed the Confederate Thunderbolt) took in Adams County from Manchester and Peebles are July 15 to July 26 in 1863 with his 2,500 cavalrymen. Morgan’s raid into connectors and West Union is just a little over two miles from the trail. Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio was an attempt by the Confederate Army to lure Union forces headed by General William Rosencrans away from Tennessee, the site of numerous battles. The JH Morgan Heritage trail InAppalachian Spring of 2003, the DiscoveryAppalachian Discovery Birding Birding Heritage Trail commences in Winchester to opened to the public. This trail loops through Adams, Brown and and Heritage Trail Dunkinsville along Graces Run Clermont Counties in Ohio and Mason and Bracken Counties in Kentucky. Road and Wheat Ridge Road to In Adams County this trail runs along US Route 52, SR 247 from US 52 SR 41 and then northeasterly to West Union, SR 125 from West Union eastward to the Buckeye Trail, along 41 through Peebles and on SR 41 from West Union to the Serpent Mound, SR 32 from Winchester, to Locust Grove. Another leg of through Seaman and on to Peebles. This trail offers numerous bird the trail runs from the western viewing locations, cultural and historic sites, restaurants, lodges, county line along Decatur- campgrounds and nature preserves. Pike Road/SR 137 through Eckmansville and Cherry Fork to Graces Run Road. Graphic 5.5 3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

“This new 23.7 mile trail would run north Proposed Bike Plan and Rails to Trails –Map 5.1 and parallel to SR 32 and have connections in Winchester, Seaman and Peebles”

To augment the county’s existing trail system, the pathProposed along the Norfolk Rails Southern to Trail Rail Road line between Winchester and Peebles is proposed to be developed into a multipurpose Trail that would connect to the Buckeye Trail, the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail and the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail. This new 23.7 mile trail would run north and parallel to SR 32 and have connections in Winchester, Seaman and Peebles. See Map 5.1.

Based on the interviews and village forums, there Proposedwas much enthusiasm Bike shown Way to develop a bikeway plan for the county to integrate another mode of transportation to the county’s trail system. The proposed bikeplan shown in Map 5.1 shows new bike paths connecting Winchester to Manchester via SR 136 (31.8 miles) and Manchester to West Union along SR 136 and SR 41 (9.75 miles). West Union would be connected to Peebles using SR 41 (13.8 miles). The bike path would continue north along SR 41 to SR73 and then west along SR 73 to the Serpent Mound. Another bike path would connect West Union to the Ohio River along SR 247 to SR 52. One alternative for the bikeplan is to widen SRs 136, 41, and 247 to accommodate bike lanes and where necessary road sharing. The bikepaths would offer another way to access the county’s attractions and draw more bikers to southern Ohio and Adams County. By emphasizing connections to the villages, this would add another group of tourists/customers 4 for local businesses. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

LEGEND –Map 5.1 of the community holds and has held from the time the community was established. Therefore, Downtown is a neighborhood like no other, and revitalization efforts must include different strategies than they would for an aging commercial strip or historic residential neighborhood.

The Main Street Program of the National Trust For Historic Preservation divides the revitalization workload so that no one person or group is overwhelmed with the responsibilities of a comprehensive revitalization effort. Each of the Four Points focuses on pieces of what makes real estate valuable, and each of these Four Points must be addressed in order for revitalization efforts to succeed in the long-term. Along with these Four Points, the National Main Street Center developed Eight Principles to guide revitalization efforts that groups can (and should) adopt as guiding principles that govern all stakeholder activities. Below is a discussion of each of the Four Points and brief definitions of the Eight Principles.

Organization (Human & financial resources) The Main Street Methodology and Strategy revolve primarily around Purpose: “Organization involves getting everyone working toward Mainthe fundamental Street elements Methodology that make real estate & valuableStrategy to consumers: the same goal and assembling the appropriate human and financial location, location, location. But what is it about individual locations that resources to implement a Main Street revitalization program. A governing make certain pieces of property worth more than others? Just as home- board and standing committees make up the fundamental organizational buyers consider many things when purchasing a house (school district, structure of the volunteer-driven program. Volunteers are coordinated physical condition of the house, and supported by a paid program director as well. This structure not neighborhood, interest rates at the only divides the workload and clearly delineates responsibilities, but also time of purchase, etc.), Downtown builds consensus and cooperation among the various stakeholders.” stakeholders consider all these things when developing strategies –National Main Street Center definition and programs to revitalize their Organization Committee members promote the downtown organization’s downtown. Literally, the Main Main Street Philosophy message of revitalization, and they typically are the front-line Street Approach artificially re- ∙∙Organization ambassadors that keep the critical public-private partnerships in good creates a valuable environment ∙∙Design health with regular conversation and coordination. Members of this at the center of the community. ∙∙Economic Restructuring committee are charged with organizing and maintaining a regular Downtown is like no other volunteer corps to implement the vision established by the community ∙∙Promotions neighborhood in a community for downtown revitalization efforts. They are also charged with raising however. It has been described funds and building a budget to accomplish the organization’s tasks, as as everyone’s living room. The downtown is owned simultaneously by well as coordinating with local political leadership to regularly share individual property owners and by the community as a whole; while information about the Downtown so that both public and private sectors individuals may hold titles and deeds proving ownership of parcels, the can work together to advance priorities for the Downtown. emotional “ownership” of the Downtown is something that every member

5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Design (Physical environment) Economic factors affecting properties include items such as interest rates, since the cost of borrowing money directly influences the overall Purpose: “Design means getting Main Street into top physical shape. value of the property. The Economic Restructuring (ER) Committee is Capitalizing on its best assets - such as historic buildings and pedestrian- typically involved in creating an economic atmosphere that helps current oriented streets - is just part of the story. An inviting atmosphere, created and prospective property owners purchase, improve and maintain through attractive window displays, parking areas, building improvements, their properties. Members of the ER Committee continually monitor street furniture, signs, sidewalks, street lights, and landscaping, conveys market and demographic information so businesses can better position a positive visual message about the commercial district and what it themselves to increase sales, keeping abreast of financing tools and has to offer. Design activities also include instilling good maintenance incentives to help building owners maximize their investment, essentially practices in the commercial district, enhancing the physical appearance restructuring the economic environment to stabilize and increase property of the commercial district by rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging values. In addition to retaining existing businesses, the ER committee is appropriate new construction, developing sensitive design management responsible for recruiting new businesses to meet the needs identified by systems, and long-term planning.” the community in the market analysis. –National Main Street Center definition

The physical attributes of a property clearly have an impact on the value Promotion (Social environment) of that property. How it looks, how well it is maintained and/or preserved, Purpose: “Promotion sells a positive image of the commercial district what kinds of changes have been made over the years; all of these and encourages consumers and investors to live, work, shop, play things directly influence the property’s value. The Design Committee and invest in the Main Street district. By marketing a district’s unique is commonly tasked with addressing the physical appearance of the characteristics to residents, investors, business owners, and visitors, an structures in the downtown as part of the overall strategy to maintain effective promotional strategy forges a positive image through advertising, the physical environment and increase property values. Members of retail promotional activity, special events, and marketing campaigns the Design Committee usually work with the local design review board carried out by local volunteers. These activities improve consumer and (if applicable) to preserve the historic architecture, they offer incentives investor confidence in the district and encourage commercial activity and to property owners to help offset rehabilitation costs, they work investment in the area.” with planners and landscape architects to design pedestrian-friendly –National Main Street Center definition streetscapes that welcome shoppers and visitors and generally make the downtown a more attractive, pleasant place to spend time. The social function of real estate is the playground of the Promotions Committee. Though commonly called the “party people”, this committee Economic Restructuring (Economic environment) serves a vital, yet often misunderstood function in the revitalization movement. Downtowns were once the social and cultural epicenter for Purpose: “Economic Restructuring strengthens a community’s existing communities. Shopping was not just a chore, it was a social event. Though economic assets while expanding and diversifying its economic base. that era has passed and our way of life is different now, that social aspect The Main Street program helps sharpen the competitiveness of existing of the downtown cannot be forsaken. Festivals, farmer’s markets, special business owners and recruits compatible new businesses and new events, and retail events all serve to bring people back into the downtown economic uses to build a commercial district that responds to today’s to have fun. They associate this positive experience with the physical consumers’ needs. Converting unused or under-used commercial space environment. Children build memories of going to the ice cream shop into economically productive property also helps boost the profitability of with their grandparents, just as their grandparents did fifty or more years the district.” ago, and while intangible, that indelible link is crucial to the downtown –National Main Street Center definition revitalization movement. Promotions in the downtown bring back the sense of community that many people are craving in today’s society. 6 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Eight Principles of Success: The Main Street Philosophy The National Trust’s Main Street Center’s experience in helping 5. Identifying communities bring their commercial corridors back to life has shown time and capitalizing and time again that the Main Street Four Point Approach succeeds. That on existing assets: success is guided by the following eight principles, which set the Main Downtowns must Street methodology apart from other redevelopment strategies. For a capitalize on the assets Main Street program to be successful, it must whole-heartedly embrace that make them unique. Every district has unique qualities, like distinctive the following time-tested Eight Principles. buildings and a human rather than a vehicular scale, that give people a sense of belonging. These local assets must serve as the foundation for all 1. Comprehensive: No single focus — lavish public improvements, aspects of the revitalization program. name-brand business recruitment, or endless promotional events — can by themselves revitalize Main Street. For successful, sustainable, long- Quality: Emphasize quality in every aspect of the revitalization term revitalization, a comprehensive approach, including activity in each 6. program. This applies to all elements of the process — from storefront of Main Street’s Four Points, is essential. designs to promotional campaigns to educational programs. Shoestring budgets and “cut and paste” efforts reinforce a negative image of the Incremental: Baby steps come before walking. Successful 2. commercial district. Instead, concentrate on quality projects over quantity. revitalization programs begin with basic, simple activities that demonstrate that “new things are happening” in the commercial district. As public confidence in the Main Street district grows and participants’ 7. Change: Skeptics turn into believers and attitudes on Main Street understanding of the revitalization process becomes more sophisticated, will turn around. At first, almost no one believes Main Street can really Main Street is able to tackle increasingly complex problems and more turn around. Changes in attitude and practice are slow but definite — ambitious projects. This incremental change leads to much longer-lasting public support for change will build as the Main Street program grows and dramatic positive change in the Main Street area. and consistently meets its goals. Change also means engaging in better business practices, altering ways of thinking, and improving the physical appearance of the commercial district. A carefully planned Main Street Self-help: No one else will save your Main Street. Local leaders 3. program will help shift public perceptions and practices to support and must have the will and desire to mobilize local resources and talent. That sustain the revitalization process. means convincing residents and business owners of the rewards they’ll reap by investing time and money in Main Street — the heart of their community. Only local leadership and involvement can produce long-term 8. Implementation: To succeed, Main Street must show visible success by fostering and demonstrating community involvement and results that can only come from completing projects. Frequent, visible commitment to the revitalization effort. changes are a reminder that the revitalization effort is under way and succeeding. Small, quality projects at the beginning of the program pave the way for larger ones as the revitalization effort matures, and that Partnerships: Both the public and private sectors have a vital 4. constant, successful revitalization activity creates confidence in the Main interest in the district and must work together to achieve common goals Street program and engenders ever-greater levels of participation. of Main Street’s revitalization. Each sector has a role to play and each –The Main Street Philosophy taken from the NMSC website must understand the other’s strengths and limitations in order to forge an effective partnership. 7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Downtown Redevelopment StrategiesThe Village of Manchester is in Manchester Township located in the Villagesouthwestern of part Manchester of the county along SR 52 and adjacent to the Ohio River. It was founded in 1791 by Nathaniel Massie, a surveyor and named after his hometown of Manchester England. The first mail route in Ohio crossed Adams County along Zane’s Trace (SR 41), Ohio’s first highway authorized by Congress in 1796. The first post office in the county was opened in Manchester in 1801. Manchester was also the first county seat until it was moved to West Union in 1803. Manchester was an important steamboat landing in the mid 1800’s and later in the late 1800’s offered excursions on the river and showboats at the wharf. Along the river, just off shore from the village lies Manchester Islands One and Two, which are part of the Ohio River Islands National Refuge. The Refuge spans 362 miles along the Ohio River and has twenty-two scattered islands that can only be accessed by boat of which two are just off shore from the village. In addition to the Ohio River Islands National Refuge, the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail runs through the village along U.S. 52 and the American Discovery Trail/Buckeye Trail is about two miles north. Manchester is also within two miles from the Hilltop Golf Course and within three miles from Moyer’s Vineyards, winery and restaurant.

The 2010 population of the village was 2,023, down from 2,233 in 1990, a loss of 200 persons (8.9%). The number of households also decreased from 896 in 1990 to 818 in 2010, a drop of 78 households (8.7%) as well. Its location on U.S. 52, a scenic Ohio River byway and its waterfront access has been a boon and a curse. The riverfront access provides it with great opportunities for waterfront related uses, however its location has resulted in many floods that have devastated the village, especially the downtown. The latest destructive flood occurred in 1997 when 12 inches of rain fell in a short period of time causing the Ohio River to crest at 61.2 feet.

8 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

At the July 2014 community forum in the village, following are some of the comments that were made in regards to needs in the village and county. ∙∙A small cinema was needed as entertainment for the kids ∙∙Improvements needed in Downtown Manchester- shops, building renovations, streetlighting, new curbs, sidewalks, etc. ∙∙Dredging needed along Isaacs and Islands Creeks to accommodate boating ∙∙There is a need for more shopping opportunities locally ∙∙Jobs needed ∙∙Extension of natural gas pipelines needed to accommodate more industry The downtown has an impressive number of two story brick turn of the century commercial buildings between Adams Street and Washington Avenue. Many are vacant and in need of refurbishing. The downtown infrastructure needs repair and streetscape improvements (sidewalks, curbs, streetlights, plantings, street furniture and street resurfacing) would greatly enhance the village. Improved gateway signage is needed at both ends of the village along U.S. 52.

By far, however, the greatest opportunity lies with the redevelopment of the riverfront with parks, walkways, piers, boat docks, marinas, restaurants and at suitable locations, housing. Map 5.2 is a conceptual rendering of the redevelopment of the riverfront south of Manchester from Broadway to Cemetery Avenue. Map 5.3 shows the waterfront from Broadway to Melody and depicts passive recreation improvements that include walkways, ball diamonds, parking lots, concession stands and restrooms. Map 5.4 continues the waterfront development from Melody to Stark and includes a lookout point along the river, an amphitheater, walkways, parking and a boat marina for twenty-four boats. Map 5.5 completes the riverfront conceptual plan from Stark to Cemetery Avenue. This area includes the continuation of the walkway, another marina with slips for twelve boats, two river lookout areas, and thirty-six townhomes/condominiums. These attributes and proposed riverfront development would make Manchester a great candidate to be a bona fide Trail Town staging area.

9 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown Manchester Ohio River waterfront Redevelopment From Broadway to Cemetery Avenue – Map 5.2

10 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

“The greatest opportunity lies with the redevelopment of the riverfront with parks, walkways, piers, boat docks, marinas, restaurants and at suitable locations, housing”

11 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Manchester Waterfront Plan from Broadway to Melody – Map 5.3

Map 5.3 depicts passive recreation improvements that include walkways, ball diamonds, parking lots, concession stands and restrooms. 12 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Manchester Waterfront Plan from Melody to Stark – Map 5.4

Map 5.4 includes a lookout point along the river, an amphitheater, walkways, parking and a boat marina for twenty-four boats. 13 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Manchester Waterfront Plan from Stark to Cemetery Avenue – Map 5.5

Map 5.5 completes the riverfront conceptual plan from Stark to Cemetery Avenue. This area includes the continuation of the walkway, another marina with slips for twelve boats, two river lookout areas, and thirty-six townhomes/condominiums. 14 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

The village is located along SR 41 north of SR 32 in the northern part of VillageMeigs Township of inPeebles northeast Adams County. Peebles was founded in 1881 and like Seaman came as a result of the expansion of the Cincinnati, Portsmouth, Virginia Railroad. The village was named after John G. Peebles of Portsmouth, who was a supporter and benefactor of the railroad.

In 2010, Peebles had a population of 1,782 and 758 households. This is the same population that it had in 1990 with 708 households.

The 7,000 acre GE Jet Engine Testing Facility is located to the southeast of the village. Peebles is centrally located to a myriad of outdoor recreational places such as the Tranquility State Wildlife Area to the northwest, Brush Creek State Forest to the east, Mineral Springs Lake to the southeast, the Serpent Mound to the north, and the Amish Region to the southwest. The Buckeye Trail runs north of Peebles and the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail and Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail go through Peebles along SR 41. Peebles will also connect to the proposed bikeway to West Union and the proposed Rails to Trails multi-purpose path from Seaman and Winchester (please see Map 5.6). At the July 2014 community forum the following comments were made about development opportunities in Peebles and the county ∙∙More entertainment needed ∙∙Promote small town character ∙∙Encourage production and sale of Amish goods more ∙∙Promote Serpent Mound more regionally and nationally ∙∙Enhance more trail use ∙∙Develop equestrian trails ∙∙Promote more biking and develop more multi-purpose trails to accommodate biking ∙∙Need to develop park in downtown Peebles

15 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Peebles Trail Connections – Map 5.6

Map 5.6 –Peebles will also connect to the proposed bikeway to West Union and the proposed Rails to Trails multi-purpose path from Seaman and Winchester

16 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Seaman is in Scott Township and located adjacent and north of SR 32 along SR Village247, which bisects of Seaman the village in an east and west fashion and becomes part of its major downtown corridor. The village was named after Frank Seaman, a local farmer that owned large tracts of land. Seaman donated two acres of land for the construction of a new train station to accommodate the expansion of the Cincinnati, Portsmouth, Virginia Railroad that connected Winchester to Portsmouth. With land from another large land owner, Ann Mower, the village was officially laid out in 1888.

The 2010 population of the village was 944 down from 1,013 in 1990, a drop of 69 persons (6.8%). During this twenty year period, Seaman only lost 13 households going from 381 to 368.

In 2007, the Adams County Regional Medical Center constructed its new facility in Seaman, just west of the village. The 94,000 sf facility employs over 300 persons and adjacent to the complex is the Adams County Industrial Park, a 159 acre site. The medical complex has helped stabilize the village and the industrial park has the potential to create more jobs in the future. At the village community forum held in July 2014, the needs of the community included the following: ∙∙the refurbishing of the downtown with new sidewalks (including ADA curbing), new streetlighting, and new businesses to fill the vacant storefronts ∙∙Better signage in the county needed to guide tourists to attractions ∙∙More restaurants needed ∙∙Grocery store badly needed for residents and tourists ∙∙Vine Street needed widening in Seaman ∙∙Improvements to storm drainage needed Seaman is strategically located along SRs 32 and 247 where the Comfort Inn Hotel and Cruiser’s Restaurant are located. From only a short distance, the following amenities can be reached: the Keim Family Amish Farm market, a quilt barn, the American Discovery Trail, the 3,500 acre Tranquility State Wildlife Area, and the John Hunt Morgan Trail. Seaman will also be on the route of the proposed multi-purpose Rails to Trails path envisioned for the abandoned Norfolk Southern rail that runs along the northern part of the county from Clermont County to Portsmouth (please see Map 5.7). 17 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Seaman Trail Connections – Map 5.7

Map 5.7 –Seaman will also be on the route of the proposed multi-purpose Rails to Trails path envisioned for the abandoned Norfolk Southern rail that runs along the northern part of the county from Clermont County to Portsmouth.

18 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

West Union is located in the west-central part of Tiffin Township in the south- Westcentral area Union of the county. State Routes 41, 125 and 247 run through the village. West Union was settled by Thomas Kirker in 1795 after leaving Manchester and was officially established in April 1803 by the Ohio legislature. The following year, in 1804, the village became the county seat.

The 2010 population of the village was 3,241 which represents an increase of 145 persons (4.6%) from 1990. The number of households increased by 128 to 1,322 in 2010, up from 1,194 in 1990. At the July 2014 forum the following comments were made about improvements needed for downtown West Union and the county; ∙∙Hunting and boating should be promoted more ∙∙Trails need to be expanded and better connected ∙∙Biking should be promoted more ∙∙Civil War events and underground railroad activity that occurred in Adams County should be promoted more for tourism ∙∙More restaurants, bed and breakfast facilities and lodging needed ∙∙Natural gas needs to be brought into areas that don’t have it for future development ∙∙West Union needs more parking to accommodate the court house and jail ∙∙SR 247 should be widened ∙∙Wheat Ridge Road should be improved and truck traffic discouraged ∙∙More signage needed to direct visitors to various sites and attractions West Union serves as a perfect staging area to tour quite a number of natural parks and preserves that include: the Amish Region to the northeast, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve, Buzzard’s Roost Rock, the Lynx Prairie and the Wilderness Trail Preserve to the east, Whipple State Nature Preserve to the south and Adams Lake to the northeast. The Buckeye Trail/American Discovery Trail and the North Country Trail are about one mile south of the village. The Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail follows along SR 247 from U.S. 52 to West Union and proceeds northeasterly along SR 41 to Locust Grove, and along SR 125 from the village eastward to the county line. West Union will also be a connector to the proposed bike path connecting Manchester to Peebles (please see Map 5.8). 19 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

West Union Trail Connections – Map 5.8

Map 5.8 –West Union will also be a connector to the proposed bike path connecting Manchester to Peebles

20 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Winchester is located in the northwest corner of Adams County in Winchester WinchesterTownship. It is situated off SR 32 along SR 136. The village was founded in 1815 by General Joseph Darlington and named after his hometown and place of birth in Virginia. In 1864, Winchester became the eastern terminus of the Cincinnati & Eastern Railroad later becoming the Cincinnati, Portsmouth and Virginia Railroad. In 1865, the settlement was incorporated officially as Winchester.

The Village’s 2010 population was 1,051 up from 978 in 1990. The 2010 households numbered at 420 up from 398 in 1990. Overall, the village has remained relatively stable. From the July 2014 community forum, the following suggestions were made on how to improve the economy of the village and county as a whole. ∙∙Village needs more stores to replace their pharmacy, car dealership, lumber yard and the scrapping of the incubator ∙∙A welcome center off SR 32 in Winchester would be an ideal place to market and promote Adams County and all it has to offer ∙∙Intersection improvements needed at SR 32 and SR 136 ∙∙Natural gas is needed in the northern and northwestern part of the county to facilitate development ∙∙Better signage is needed to guide tourists and visitors to the various amenities within the county ∙∙More restaurants and lodging is needed ∙∙Hunting should be promoted more through magazine advertising ∙∙Improvements needed for downtown Winchester to address vacant storefronts, curb appeal, street lighting and lack of stores As an entry point to Adams County from the west, Winchester is the county’s western gateway. A visitor’s center would definitely help encourage more tourism by offering information on the multitude of attractions available in the county.

As shown in May 5.9, Winchester is the western point of the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail following the Tri-County Highway through Winchester and then proceeding to Graces Run Road on to Dunkinsville and beyond. The Village is also on the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail that runs along SR 32 eastward to SR 41. It will also connect to the proposed Rails to Trails path connecting Winchester to Peebles and will also link up to the proposed bike trail along SR 136 from Winchester south to Manchester with connections to West Union. 21 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 5–Downtown Revitalization Chapter 5–Downtown

Winchester Trail Connections – Map 5.9

Map 5.9 –Winchester is the western point of the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail. The Village is also on the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail that runs along SR 32 eastward to SR 41. It will also connect to the proposed Rails to Trails path

22 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Chapter 6 Implementation

A Patchwork of History and Nature Chapter 6–Implementation

Chapter 6 Implementation

SummaryGiven the rich of history, Future culture Development and natural Opportunities assets of Adams County, the potential exists for tremendous growth in tourism, especially if the Ohio riverfront along Manchester is developed. This would result in significant gains in commercial and retail activity (restaurants, lodging, shops, cafes, etc.). Some manufacturing will continue to grow, but at a limited pace due to the terrain and the unavailability of natural gas. Map 6.1 depicts and summarizes the proposed development areas envisioned for the county.

1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 6–Implementation

Proposed Development Areas –Map 6.1

Recreational/ Eco-tourism To augment the county’s wide array of recreational resources, a bikepath is proposed between Winchester and Manchester by way of SR 136 with connectors to West Union along SRs 41 and 125. The bikepath would have linkages to Manchester along SR 247 and US 52 and to Peebles via SR 41. With the proposed new multi-purpose path between Winchester and Peebles along the Norfolk-Southern Rail Road line right-of-way, a complete loop would be established in the county. This loop consisting of bikeways and trails would provide increased access to the Amish Region, Serpent Mount, the Buckeye Trail, nature preserves, forests, and other attractions. The waterfront development along Manchester calls for walking paths, parks, ballfields, an amphitheater, marinas, boat ramps and docks, piers, river overlooks, and housing. To facilitate tourism, new signage is proposed along SR 32 at Winchester, the western gateway, at SR 247 south of SR 32 to identify the

LEGEND –Map 6.1

2 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Highlighted Proposed Development Areas Chapter 6–Implementation

3 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 6–Implementation

Proposed Adams County Wayfinding Signage –Graphic 6.1

Amish Region, at SR 32 and SR 41, the eastern entry to the county at Peebles (and to provide directional information to the Amish Region and Serpent Mound), at SR 41 and SR 73 to direct people to the Serpent Mound, at US Route 52 at Manchester and the Brush Creek Boat Ramp, and at SR 125 identifying the Edge of Appalachia Nature Preserve. The signage should be uniform in color and design, preferably using the Travel and Visitors Bureau’s barn quilt motif. Please see Graphic 6.1, Proposed Adams County Wayfinding signage.

Commercial/Highway Tourist With increased tourism envisioned for the county, highway commercial/tourist amenity uses will emerge along the following areas: ∙∙SR 32 at Winchester- this is the western gateway to Adams County and the potential site for a welcome center. ∙∙SR 32 at Seaman- additional hotels and restaurants would complement the ones already there. This area is west of the Amish region and just north of the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail and south of the proposed Rails to Trails multi-purpose trail connecting Winchester 4 to Peebles. POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 6–Implementation

Mission Statement Adams County will promote and encourage growth, outdoor recreational activities and eco-tourism, while not compromising its unique natural assets, Amish and Appalachian cultures and rural character.

∙∙SR 32 at Peebles- this is the eastern gateway to Adams County and the staging area for visitors to the Serpent Mound and the Amish Region. Peebles is also a connector to the proposed biketrail along SR 41 and is just south of the Buckeye Trail. ∙∙SR 41 southwest and northeast of West Union- these entry points to the village are already experiencing growth, especially the southwest section where Wal-Mart is located. ∙∙SR 247 north and south of West Union- these gateways will grow to accommodate tourism near the nature preserves, trails, the Amish Region and other attractions. ∙∙SR 125 west and east of West Union- the eastern section may experience growth to cater visitors to the nature preserves and trails. The western segment may be more suitable for institutional growth. ∙∙The CIC Industrial park along SR 41 southwest ∙∙US Route 52 at Manchester- with the planned riverfront development of West Union has land available for new business along Manchester, this route may experience increased commercial opportunities. This site is near Columbus Industries, activity in the future. a manufacturer of various paint and industrial filters that relocated from South Carolina to the county in 2006. Industrial/manufacturing ∙∙The county’s other industrial park, HNL Properties, is located at the It is likely that future industrial and manufacturing northeast corner of SR 32 and Moores Road and has approximately 159 development will occur in the vicinity of the county’s existing acres available for development. This site is west of the Adams County facilities and sites: Regional Medical Center in Seaman. ∙∙Dayton Power and Light has two electric generating plants located Graphic 6.2 below depicts the key economic development strategies for along the Ohio River in Aberdeen and Wrightsville adjacent to US Route the county with the name of the responsible organization to carry it out 52. A by-product of their process to reduce air pollutants is gypsum and the expected timeframe for its completion. Short term is defined as that is used to manufacture drywall products. This may present new within one year (S), mid-term as two to three years (M), long term (L) from manufacturing opportunities for the county. four to five years. For those activities with no timeframe an “O” will be ∙∙The GE jet engine testing facility located southeast of Peebles has used for on-going. expanded over the years and may do so again in the future. Businesses that support and complement the work at the testing grounds will no doubt experience a boost with such an expansion. 5 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 6–Implementation

Graphic 6.2

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Economic Development Strategies Business Retention Business Recruitment Main Street Program Trail Town Program

∙∙Survey business needs [ACE&CD, OVRDC, ∙∙Recruit businesses that ∙∙Initiate a façade program for ∙∙Connect downtowns to existing ACCC] – O complement Adams Co business downtown property owners trails and proposed new rails clusters: Healthcare, Retail, [Village, ACE&CD, OVRDC, ODSA] to trail and bike path [Villages, Manufacturing, Utilities, Accom/ – O ACE&CD, ACT&VB] – M food [ACE&CD, OVRDC, APEG, JobsOhio] – O

∙∙Identify financial incentive gaps ∙∙Carry out aggressive job training/ ∙∙Consider use of State’s CRA ∙∙Adopt uniform wayfinding system [ACE&CD, OVRDC] – S skills dev programs [ABCAP, Program [ACE&CD, ODSA] – M for trails, trail connections & JobsOhio, S.State] – O other county attractions [Villages, ACT&VB] – M

∙∙Serve as catalyst to businesses ∙∙Expand county airport [ACE&CD, ∙∙Make physical connections to ∙∙Offer services and amenities for state and federal resources OVRDC] – L nearby trails and attractions needed by trail users [Villages, [ACE&CD, OVRDC] – O [ACE&CD, ACT&VB, ODNR] – M businesses] – O

∙∙Upgrade and extend water/sewer ∙∙Have CIC assemble development ∙∙Develop uniform wayfinding ∙∙Advertise services, amenities services [ACE&CD, ACRWD] – O sites [ACE&CD, CIC] – O system for all Villages & County & attractions to trail users via attractions using ACT&VB Barn internet, websites, ads, magazines, Quilt logo [ACE&CD, ACT&VB] – M etc. [Villages, ACE&CD, ACT&VB]– O

∙∙Extend natural gas service to ∙∙Explore Tax Increment Financing ∙∙Coordinate special events ACT&VB ∙∙Build a Visitor’s Center along SR 32 Northern part of county [Columbia (TIF) for applicable development [Villages, ACT&VB, ACE&CD] – O in Winchester [ACT&VB, ACE&CD] Gas] – M projects [ACE&CD] – O – M

∙∙Expand childcare services [ABCAP] ∙∙Promote development in county’s ∙∙Have CIC coordinate downtown – M two industrial parks along SR improvement programs [CIC, 32 and SR 41 [ACE&CD, OVRDC, ACE&CD] – M APEG] – O

∙∙Follow-up with Dayton Power ∙∙Resuscitate incubator project ∙∙Recruit new businesses that & Light about using gypsum for to help with business start-ups will cater to trail users [Villages, processing of drywall [ACE&CD] – S [ACE&CD, OVRDC, APEG, ODSA] ACE&CD, ACT& VB] – O – M

6 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Chapter 6–Implementation

OUTDOOR/RECREATIONAL ORGANIZATIONAL OTHER

∙∙Develop Rails to Trails multi-purpose path ∙∙Strengthen ACE&CD, ACT&VB and ACCC – S ∙∙Develop comprehensive plan for Adams Co on Norfolk Southern RR spur between [County Commissioners] – S Winchester and Peebles [ACE&CD, ODNR, ODOT] – L

∙∙Build new bikepath connecting Winchester, ∙∙Have CIC assemble & hold land for future ∙∙Develop zoning for County [County Manchester, West Union, Seaman and development – O Commissioners] – M Peebles [ACE&CD, OVRDC, ODNR, ODOT] – L

∙∙Expand equestrian trails [ACE&CD, ODNR, ∙∙Have CIC work with Villages to initiate ∙∙Adopt building regulations for County ACT&VB] – L downtown revitalization initiatives [CIC, [County Commissioners] – M ACE&CD] – S

∙∙Expand regional marketing and promotional ∙∙Expand ACRWD to include sanitary sewer campaigns [ACT&VB, ACE&CD, ODSA – services [County Commissioners, ACRWD] TourismOhio] – M – S ∙∙Use Barn Quilt Logo throughout ad ∙∙Relax blue laws in strategic locations campaigns [ACT&VB] – O to entice sit-down restaurants [County Commissioners, local jurisdiction] – S

∙∙Develop riverfront along Ohio River in ∙∙Continue dialogue to get a branch of Manchester with trails, parks, marinas, piers, Southern State Community College in boat launches, boat docks, kayak rentals, Adams County [County Commissioners, housing [ACE&CD, OVRDC, ACT&VB, ODNR] ACE&CD] – S – L

∙∙Promote Civil War & Underground Railroad ∙∙Capitalize on the housing market for the 55+ involvement more [ACT&VB, ACE&CD, age group (the recently retired) in Adams ACCC] – O County [ACE&CD, ODSA, OHFA, private housing developers] – S

∙∙Heavily promote Serpent Mound State Memorial [All] – O

∙∙Promote regional amenities to encourage Adams County in becoming staging area for multi-day visits [ACT&VB] - O 7 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Chapter 6–Implementation

Legend of Organizations

ACE&CD ...... Adams County Economic and Community Development Office ACT&VB ...... Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau ACRWD ...... Adams County Regional Water District ACCC ...... Adams County Chamber of Commerce ABCAP ...... Adams Brown Community Action Partnership CIC ...... Adams County Community Improvement Corp OVRDC ...... Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission APEG ...... Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth JobsOhio ...... JobsOhio ODSA ...... Ohio Development Services Agency ODNR ...... Ohio Department of Natural Resources ODOT ...... Ohio Department of Transportation OHFA ...... Ohio Housing Finance Agency

8 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan Appendix

A Patchwork of History and Nature Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

SWOT ANALYSIS 2 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

SWOT Analysis SWOT ANALYSIS HELD ON TUESDAY MARCH 4, 2014

In attendance: Consultants: Alvin Norris Mike Pell Paul Tecpanecatl > Holly Johnson Paul Worley Tina Lightcap Stephen Caraway Tim Bockbrader > Group Rick Adamson Brian Baldridge Mary Beth Louderback Saundra Stevens Chris Boring > Amanda Fraley Dave Clarke Tom Cross

A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) exercise was held at the kick-off meeting of the Adams County Economic Development/ Tourism Plan with members of the planning steering committee. The following items were stated:

∙∙Adams County has a large presence of Amish (2nd in Ohio) Strengths∙∙It is a very tranquil place ∙∙The County has many natural areas and preserves ∙∙It has new schools ∙∙There is a lot of land available ∙∙It has a set tradition ∙∙Its waterways: the Ohio River and Brush Creek ∙∙State Route 32/the Appalachian Highway traverses through the northern part of the county ∙∙The east/west Norfolk Southern Rail Road line connecting Cincinnati to Portsmouth located along the northern part of the county is currently shut down Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 3 SWOT Analysis

∙∙The Dayton Power and Light generating plants along the southern part of the county along the Ohio River are producing large quantities of gypsum as a byproduct of their process to reduce air pollutants. Plants to convert the gypsum to drywall and other building products should be explored ∙∙The County’s airport has potential for greater use given its large runway ∙∙The county’s Great Serpent Mound, a National Historic Landmark and State Memorial located in the northeast part of the county attracts visitors from all over the world and is a key asset of Adams County ∙∙Southern State Community College has indicated an interest in establishing a branch in the county ∙∙Leadership Adams, a unique program providing leadership development opportunities for local emerging leaders

∙∙High unemployment Weaknesses∙∙Increased substance abuse & drugs ∙∙Urban blight ∙∙Lack of infrastructure outside of municipalities (natural gas) ∙∙Poor cell service/reception ∙∙Topography- hillsides and slopes hinders development and utility/sewer/and waterline extensions ∙∙Pockets of run downed areas in all the villages ∙∙Little to no planning occurring for community development activities, actions only reactionary ∙∙community not united ∙∙County has small financial base 4 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan SWOT Analysis

∙∙Community willingness to move forward Opportunities∙∙Do better marketing of County to attract more visitors ∙∙County has a notable resource in its people ∙∙Development of retirement housing ∙∙Tourism industry in Adams County is a cross between activities in Holmes and Hocking ∙∙There is a strong entrepreneurial spirit in the county ∙∙An incubator facility would do well in the county ∙∙Many experiences can be had in the county (tranquility, Amish culture, boating, hunting, hiking, birding, biking, fishing, etc.) ∙∙Expand bike trails

∙∙Apathy (due in part to high unemployment) Threats∙∙Vandalism ∙∙Brain drain (no jobs) ∙∙No sustainable plans ∙∙Need to work together for the betterment of the county ∙∙Need to improve communication between four corners of the county ∙∙Lack of zoning may jeopardize key assets of county and encourage haphazard development Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

SUMMARY OF KEY INFORMANT INTERVIEWS Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 1

SUMMARY OF KEY INFORMANT INTERVIEWS Between May 1 and June 9, 2014, fifteen (15) individuals from Adams County representing area schools, businesses, industry and non-profit institutions were interviewed over the telephone in regards to economic conditions in the county. These individuals were chosen by the county commissioner’s office and the project planning Steering Committee. The individuals interviewed in alphabetical order were:

Chris Bedell Cindy/Jeff Cates Mike Hughes Debbie Ryan Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key Steve Boehme Dane Clark Dan Miller Pete Whan Tonya Bowman Mike Cluxton Leeann Puckett Josie Winterhall Roy Carpenter Tom Cross Angie Richmond

The first 5 Questions of the survey asked The best things mentioned about living/working in the Informationabout the respondent’s on tenure, survey occupation, Respondents future county included: residency plans and what they liked and disliked most about living/working in the county. “Its rural setting, friendliness, no traffic congestion, its natural beauty, a down home The average length of time that these 31.8 years feeling, mom and pop businesses, no individuals lived/worked in the county average length of billboards, unique geological formations, the was 31.8 years. Many migrated to the time lived/worked outdoor activities, the Ohio River, the people, county from nearby places such as in the county collaboration among agencies, and the low Highland, Clermont and Brown Counties, cost of living”. Cincinnati and Athens, Ohio and Kentucky. The furthest places mentioned were Montana, The worst things about living in the county included: California and New Jersey. The lack of infrastructure, limited resources, not All but two persons indicated that they planned realizing the redevelopment potential of the land along on staying in the county over the next 5 to 10 years. the Ohio River, the little respect shown for property 2 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

The respondents were given a brief description of the project, project work scope and deadline for its completion. Additionally, the following Projectcounty information Background was provided. & Purpose As of 2012, Adams County had a population of 28,350, down from 28,550 in 2010. As of 2012, there were 10,754 households and the median income was $32,791. The March 2014 unemployment rate was 9.4% (the 7th highest in the state). The County land area totaled 584 Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key square miles and the predominant land uses were forest (63%), cropland (28%) and pasture (7%). Only .81% of land was depicted as urban which included residential/commercial/ industrial/transportation uses and urban grasses. The county is also very hilly and forested having the Brush Creek State Forest and Shawnee State Forest within its eastern borders. Adams County is also the southwestern most edge of the Appalachian Region- composed of 32 counties in Ohio situated along the Ohio River and the hill country of southeast Ohio. The Ohio River forms the southern border of the county and State Route 32 (the Appalachian Highway) traverses the northern part of the county. The assets of Adams County included its forested lands, lakes, streams, the Ohio River, national landmarks, SR 32, the Amish and the GE jet engine testing facility near Peebles. The predominant attraction would seem to be tourism for outdoor recreational activities. According to the State of Ohio’s Development Services Agency, in 2011, Adams County generated $29.1 million in tourism sales, representing $7.5 million in wages and personal income, $3.7 million in taxes, and employed evidenced by the growing 475 people in the county. So in a sense, tourism is major economic number of properties with development component in the county. garbage, debris and litter, unemployment, lack of doctors, little to no amenities, everyone Question 6 asked the respondents to describe the knowing your business, no cultural activities such most significant changes or occurrences that have taken as music and theatre venues, little to no retail, apathy- place in the county over the last 5 to 7 years. more people need to get involved in civic functions, and the growing burn out of those folks that are involved in The answers included the nominal increase of activity just about everything. in the industrial sector such as the DP&L expansion and Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 3

the new Columbus Industries manufacturing facility; Question 7 asked the respondents to assess the healthy school systems; the improvement of the day/ current economic conditions of the County and whether trip economy; increased tourism advertising; the new they had improved or gotten worse over time. hospital on SR 32 in Seaman; water and sewer line The majority of respondents stated that the economy expansions; new test site at GE Peebles; new sidewalks had somewhat improved and many described it as in Peebles; growth along SR 41 just south of West hopeful but still challenging. A couple individuals felt Union; widening of SR 32; the new Wal-mart in that the economy was the same- status quo with a West Union; spurt in tourism; the decline growing component of the economy now dependent on of Manchester; and the creation of public funds. Informant Interviews Summary of Key the successful Health Wellness Coalition. Question 8 asked where geographically, was development activity taking place in the County and whether they thought that it was at an appropriate location. As a follow-up, they were asked if development should be taking place elsewhere as well. The majority of respondents listed SR 32 near Seaman and Peebles and SR 41 south of West Union as the places where development was occurring. Many felt that certain development will continue to occur along 32 because of access and the availability of needed utilities. However, retail, restaurants and job centers should be concentrated along SR 41 near West Union because of its central location in the county. Other places mentioned where development should occur included SR 52 along the Ohio River, the Wheat Ridge Amish Area and the GE Peebles area.

Question 9 asked whether the county provided economic incentives to existing businesses to expand and/ or to prospective new businesses to locate in the county. Many of the respondents did not know (66%) and the remainder answered yes through the commissioner’s office and specifically mentioned Ms. Holly Johnson. 4 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

Question 10 had two parts, one asked whether strengthening the Villages of Winchester, Seaman, Peebles, West Union, and Manchester would help the overall economy of the county since some of the villages were either near and/or connected to the Buckeye Trail, the John Hunt Morgan Trail, and the Appalachian Discovery Birding and Heritage Trail. The other part of the question specifically asked what type of Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key improvements were needed in the villages (e.g. street, curb, sidewalk improvements, building renovations, downtown improvements, street lighting, water/sewer upgrades). This question elicited diverse responses: “these are tough issues involving a variety of factors”; businesses are needed to fill-up the vacant storefronts; no diesel fuel is sold in the Manchester Marina/dock; “old downtown flavor needs to be brought back such as hunting supplies) of hikers, antique stores, banks, government offices, coffee shops”; boaters, campers, hunters, bikers, more street fairs needed; for entertainment young birders, etc.; more bed and breakfast people are going to Eastgate Mall rather than spending operations would help the downtowns; and new time in the various downtowns; the appearances of the ownership of downtown buildings would help spur downtowns look awful; the condition of Manchester revitalization activities. does not reflect Adams County; the downtowns need infrastructure upgrades such as street resurfacing, new curbs and sidewalks, better streetlighting, street Question 11 asked who in the county (people furniture and landscaping; many of the downtown and organizations) carried out economic development buildings need facelifts; the downtowns are by- passed programming and whether they were doing an adequate via SR 32; owners of many downtown storefronts job. Also asked, was whether the county was doing all are asking too much to rent out their spaces thereby that it could to keep and attract new businesses. stymieing redevelopment efforts; more restaurants Most of the respondents (12) mentioned that the are needed in the county and some should be located commissioner’s office, specifically Holly Johnson was in the downtowns; there should probably be a demand responsible for economic development programming. for stores to meet the needs (outdoor gear, camping/ Three persons stated that they did not know. Other Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 5

answers included “lots of agencies”; entrepreneurs; the topography which makes development costlier and Chamber; the Travel and Visitor’s Bureau; and private utility extensions more expensive; the lack of a strong investors. The majority felt that the commissioner’s industrial base with living wage jobs; the disappearance office was doing an adequate job in regards to fostering of mom and pop businesses due to the emergence of big economic development but a few persons thought that box retailers, the high number of people on welfare; more could be done. One person mentioned that the the lack of infrastructure including cell phone service, county’s lack of a trained workforce was a hindrance to internet availability and fiber optics for broadband attracting more businesses. Another comment made was services to lure office and high tech business; lack of that some of the existing affluent businesses did not want highway access; and not having a business incubator to Informant Interviews Summary of Key competition and were happy with the status quo. help new business start-ups.

Question 12 asked whether there were job Question 14 asked whether the county should opportunities in the County and if there weren’t, they protect open spaces/natural areas, key trails and parks. were asked to explain why. Resoundingly, all respondents but one answered in the For the most part, the respondents felt that there were affirmative. The lone dissenter raised the issue of cost limited low paying jobs available in the county due to the and the county’s ability to adequately maintain the lack of a significant manufacturing base and no public county roads and other responsibilities. A few persons transportation. As a result, many folks need 2 to 3 jobs felt that the county needed to promote its assets to to survive. Not having adult education programs in existing county residents. Another respondent the county was also seen as a problem coupled stated that many retirees were relocating with the welfare mentality of many county to the county given its natural areas and residents. related amenities.

Question 13 asked what was Question 15 asked what hindering economic development and impact the availability of natural business growth in the county. gas, electricity, water, and sanitary In addition to having an unskilled work and storm sewers had on economic development and where should the force, lack of adult education services county target expansion of utilities and and no public transportation mentioned sewer lines. previously, other factors included Adam County’s isolated location (58 miles from Cincinnati), its All respondents answered that the availability of utilities, water and sewer services greatly 6 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

that didn’t have such services. Others felt that SRs 32 and 41 should be targeted, and a couple mentioned SR 52.

Question 16 asked whether economic development activity should be concentrated along SR 32. Nine respondents said yes and six said no. The advantages of SR 32 were the availability of utilities,

Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key the hospital, plenty of land and accessibility. On the down side, the development would not be centrally located. SR 32 is 10 miles north of Manchester. Other places mentioned suitable for economic development activity were SR41 south of West Union and SR 52 in Manchester.

Question 17 asked whether the county should focus on developing the land along the Ohio River for recreational/tourism uses and activities. All but one respondent enthusiastically said yes, the county should promote the development of the waterfront property along SR 52 for recreational/ tourism uses and activities. Many felt that that part of the county was missing out on Bass Tournaments, more boating activities, lodging, restaurants, etc. As a result of the 1997 flood that hit Manchester, FEMA impacted development and that development has imposed some building restrictions near the river. usually followed the installation/expansion of such. A portion of Downtown Manchester (the southern side) Many individuals felt that such utility extensions unfortunately lies within a flood plain and will be prone shouldn’t be just for businesses but also for the existing to more flooding in the future. Unlike Ripley, where it residents of the county that didn’t have their basic needs is located well away from the river, Manchester is not. addressed. A few respondents felt that the utility and Consequently, revitalization efforts in Manchester will sewer extensions should be prioritized to the villages need to address these flooding issues. Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 7

Question 18 asked the respondents of additional signs using funds from the to assess the existing roadway network commissioner’s office. A few people commented in the county and to identify needed that the signage should be uniform in improvements. lettering and color and be attractive. Many commented that they didn’t want A majority of respondents felt that the county cluttered up with ugly overall, the county road network signs or making the rural area was fine. Roadways needing “too commercialized”. improvement included: Informant Interviews Summary of Key Waggoner Riffle Road- it was literally falling into Brush Creek; Question 20 asked whether SRs 52 and 136 needed attention; SR the economy of Adams County should 52 needed resurfacing and more lighting; be centered on tourism and recreational Wheat Ridge Road needed sidewalks and outdoor activities (such as boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, birding, and biking), and if berms due to the increased truck traffic and so, how it could be improved. The second part bike/Amish Buggy lanes for safety reasons. The of the question asked what existing drawbacks lack of public transportation and taxi services was were hindering these activities and how could they be also mentioned as a problem. addressed. Everyone agreed that tourism and outdoor recreational Question 19 asked whether the key destination activities should be the focus of the county’s economy. points of interest in the County were well marked and One respondent mentioned that agriculture was also easy to get to. important. To improve on the recreational/tourism All respondents but one felt that better directional sector the following recommendations were made: have signage (wayfinding) was needed in the county. A few better signage, have more lodging, encourage craft commented on the recently installed Brush Creek Motor shops, put more emphasis on hunting, promote bike Speedway sign along SR 32- priorities, priorities! Many paths (the vacated rail spurs should be developed into expressed their experience in providing directions to multi-purpose trails) and encourage development of the Serpent Mound and the Amish area along Wheat parks in the villages. The drawbacks included the lack Ridge. The Edge of Appalachia was working with ODOT of sit-down restaurants (e.g. Bob Evans, Cracker Barrel) to install the brown historical highway signs along the the need to extend water lines and sanitary sewers, the trailheads. They were also aware and coordinating with need for more boat launches, and relaxation of blue the Travel and Visitor’s Bureau with the installation laws so that alcohol can be purchased in the county (currently very limited). 8 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

Question 21 asked what other amenities or attractions should the county promote and encourage (such as more hotels, bed and breakfast establishments, restaurants, zip lines, boat launches, marinas, etc.) to attract more tourists and visitors. Responses included the need for more lodging, cabins and camp grounds. Along SR 52 more

Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key boat launches were desperately needed. The most need however was for more restaurants especially sit-down ones. A comment that resonated was that “the county cannot support more tourism without more lodging and restaurants”.

Question 22 inquired whether the county’s open spaces/natural areas, scenic vistas, waterways, state parks, state forests, the Serpent Mound, and the other numerous points of interest were adequately protected. Eight respondents felt that the county’s natural areas were adequately protected, five did not agree and two didn’t know. Some other relevant comments included, “that the area’s remoteness and partial isolation helped protect these assets and that it wasn’t anything that anyone else was doing”; another comment was “that you could never have enough protections in place, Question 23 asked if the development in the once destroyed, however, these natural assets would county took into consideration the protection of the be forever lost”; another comment was that their was following elements. excessive logging taking place at the Shawnee Forest A. Groundwater (recharge areas) which could pose problems in the near future. B. Air quality C. Agricultural land D. Forested land E. Wetlands Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 9

F. Surface water sanitary sewers, water and fiber optics for broad band G. Fragile habitats and ecosystems usage for high speed internet services to attract high Eight respondents felt that yes, these items were taken tech industries. into consideration especially when federal money was Other items mentioned were the need for a YMCA, a used. Five said that they did not know and two said no. community college, sit-down restaurants and more hotel/motel beds. Question 24 asked if they would be opposed to To spur tourism, relaxation of the county’s blue laws having zoning throughout the county, not only to protect was seen as essential. The current laws prompt Informant Interviews Summary of Key the natural areas but also to guide future development. many visitors to go to Kentucky or elsewhere Twelve respondents felt that zoning would be a good to purchase liquor or have a mixed thing for the county and had comments such as: it’s drink with dinner. The creation of needed, it’s absolutely essential, it would be great to have, I would welcome zoning. Three were opposed to zoning.

Question 25 asked what two things the county should do or undertake and successfully accomplish over the next 10 years. Seven responses centered on the need for a comprehensive master plan for the county and adoption of zoning and building codes to protect the county’s assets and to guide future development. This would be a good way to maintain the county rural nature and to ensure that any new development would be sensitive to the county’s unique assets. Related comments included that with zoning, billboards could be regulated, and that development would be orderly and not haphazard like in Brown and Clermont Counties. There were four responses regarding the need for the expansion of various utilities such as natural gas, 10 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

entertainment districts in key areas in the county could complimentary of the current commissioners, and felt be the first option to consider. confident that thing would get done. Development of the waterfront along the Ohio River Since Adams County had a strong church going culture, along SR 52 was mentioned by many as a priority for many felt that this should be tapped for good use. the county to attract more boaters, hikers and related The construction of a unique and prominent visitor’s commercial activities. This untapped potential could be center was seen as a good way to further promote the a boon for Adams County and a revenue generator. county and to help direct visitor and tourists to the Summary of Key Informant Interviews Summary of Key A few respondents felt that the Villages in the county many sites, activities and landmarks in the region. should be revitalized with an eye to increased tourism Some respondents did not feel that the county should since many are adjacent or near to trails and key just pick one economic sector over another, and to landmarks. concentrate all its efforts to this one selected industry. A couple respondents mentioned that the county as Many people felt that with appropriate land use a whole needed to support the designation of the regulations, that the county could have both an Serpent Mound as a World Heritage Site. outdoor recreational/tourism economy and an industrial economy. This diversification would create more jobs and better strengthen the tax Question 26 The last question asked if there was anything else that base of the villages and the county. the respondent cared to comment on in regards to improving the economy of the county that was not covered. Some remarks included that the county needed to build “across the board consensus” among all of the communities to dispel the independent, isolated feeling, “of going at it alone mentality” that has been divisive and counter productive in the county. Many respondents were very Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY FORUMS Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 1

SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY FORUMS As part of the community outreach component of the Economic Development/Tourism Plan, between Wednesday July 9 and Thursday July 10, 2014, five (5) community forums were held at the Villages of Manchester, West Union, Seaman, Winchester, and Peebles. The sessions, which lasted from one and a half to two hours, were open to the public and advertised in the local newspapers. The purpose of the forums was to obtain first hand the opinions of each of the five villages in regards to the economic issues impacting their Summary of Community Forums respective community and of the county. The county commissioners and Holly Johnson, the county’s Economic and Community Development Director, attended all of the forums. The commissioners took turns welcoming the attendees, provided a brief overview of the project and introduced the consultants. For continuity and consistency, the fourteen (14) questions presented at the forums were the same ones used for the key person interviews.

Question One > What are the best and worst things about living/working in Adams County?

Under the category of best things about living/working in the county, the responses were: Manchester: Hometown feeling, history, not a city, the Ohio River, friendly people West Union: Don’t have problems of big cities, the beauty of the county (rural nature, terrain & trees), laid back lifestyle Seaman: Feeling of safety & security Winchester: More interaction with people than in urbanized areas, varied topography (Chaparral Prairie Nature Preserve, Shawnee State Forest), small town atmosphere, and comfortable feeling Peebles: the people, lifestyle has not changed much, untapped labor market, scenic beauty, historic sites, hunting, woods & GE 2 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

Under the worst things about living/working in the Seaman: Access to doctors, specifically to specialists county, the comments were: Winchester: unemployment, absence of living wages, Manchester: Downtown Manchester, lack of places to limited space for large scale development shop, lack of jobs, lack of empowerment, fear of change Peebles: Urban problems creeping into Adams County, and lack of pride negative attitude and perception of people, loss of

Summary of Community Forums West Union: Low paying jobs, problems of railroad, Serpent’s Mound loss of funding by the Ohio city beginning to appear such as drugs, Historical Society, apathy, lower income levels, no lack of manufacturing jobs entertainment.

Question Two > What have been the most significant changes that have occurred in the county over the past 5-7 years?

Manchester: lack of pride, hospital moving from West Union to Seaman, loss of jobs, increase in drug activity, better schools, positive change in elected officials, more businesses West Union: Not much growth, preparing for growth (infrastructure & removal of blight) Seaman: Hospital moving to SR 32 in Seaman, the New Cancer Center, the new Tractor Supply Center in West Union Winchester: lower income families, drugs, loss of businesses, loss of drug store, closing down of car dealership and lumber yard, scrapping of incubator project, service station at corner of SR 32 and SR 136 now carries some groceries, Winchester now a distribution center for Cantrell Companies, fly-in event very popular Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 3

Peebles: Schools and educational system, expanded infrastructure but more to do, loss of businesses in Peebles, loss of jobs

Question Three > Assess the current

economic conditions of the village and county. Summary of Community Forums Manchester: Depressing, just surviving, not utilizing the river, have natural gas, flooding, no ownership or sustainability with progress, easier not to work West Union: getting better Seaman: poor, but improving slightly Winchester: economic condition of village fairly good, difficult to keep up with growing drug and crime problems especially in some of the subsidized housing complexes Peebles: economic conditions have become worse over the years Seaman: Revitalize downtown Seaman and other village downtowns, help businesses in Question Four > How can the village be industrial areas strengthened using the assets of the county? Winchester: Establish a Welcome Center to guide and Manchester: develop the riverfront area, tap into the assist tourists and visitors to unique county destinations natural gas that is available in the Manchester area Peebles: promote small town character, encourage sale West Union- promote hunting and boating more, of Amish goods and crafts throughout the County and encourage more bed and breakfast establishments, not just in the Amish areas, promote the Serpent Mound expand and connect trail system in county, promote more, enhance trail use, develop equestrian trails and biking promote horseback riding, encourage specialty shops throughout the county 4 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

Question Five > What specifically is hindering Seaman: SR 32 near the hospital and south of 32 along SR development in your village and county? 247 and along SR 41 just south of West Union Manchester: Money and related resources, floodplains, Winchester: Along SR 32 and West Union labor pool has lack of basic training, jealousy of each Peebles: In Peebles, SR 32, each area has its own other, lack of buildable land attributes and overall strengthens the entire Summary of Community Forums West Union: infrastructure, capital, lack of county business leadership Seaman: money, no income tax in the Village Question Seven > Should Winchester: unavailability of natural Development be encouraged gas, money, attitude of people (don’t along the Ohio River want change, distrust of outsiders, waterfront along SR 52? younger generation getting Manchester: Yes better, however) for increased Peebles: no natural gas, boating, park price of land and development, obstinate landowners camping and housing Question Six West Union: Yes, > Where, geographically, not only will it help should development be Manchester and West promoted? Union, but the rest of the Manchester: Along SR 32 for county as well commercial, at the three acres not in Seaman: Yes, a marina would the flood plain in Manchester, Twin Islands be ideal for boat access. Dredging needed along Isaac Winchester: Yes, the scenic beauty of and Island Creeks for docks, along SR 52 near the riverfront should be capitalized the river for boating and park development Peebles: Definitely, the Ohio River is one of West Union: In West Union, the county seat which has the greatest assets of Adams County had the majority of manufacturing jobs in the past Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 5

Winchester: Intersection at SR 32 and SR 136 Question Eight > dangerous. There is no left turn lane when you’re going What is your opinion on east from Brown County into Adams the county roadway network? Where Peebles: County roads are fine should roadway improvements take place? Question Nine > Are the key points of interest Summary of Community Forums in the county well marked? Manchester: Expansions and Manchester: No, signage is poor. Need better directional widening should take signs to point out tourist attractions and local schools, place along Germany government offices, nature trails and county golf course Hill, SR 247 between West West Union: No, they are poorly marked. Better, Union and Seaman, and a aesthetically pleasing signs needed. new connection to Kentucky- extending SR 136 south across the Seaman: Some are (for the Amish), and some are not river. Overall, the streets in Manchester (for the other points of interest) are in poor shape, need to develop a path along Winchester: No, more and better signage needed. A riverfront, Wheat Ridge needs widening, it’s narrow and visitor’s center would help. dangerous. Difficult getting on and off along SR 52. Island Peebles: Getting better but more signs needed. Creek Road by the school needs improvements and better sidewalk connections are needed along school routes. More walking should be encouraged throughout the Question 10 > Are the key points of interest and village and bike lanes should be added other attractions well marketed? West Union: Many roads need repaving, SR 247 should Manchester: Currently Adams County has two brochures, be widened, many county roads being torn up by semis, one called Crossroads, published by Steve Boehme safety issues also Wheat Ridge especially with the Amish and the Visitors and Community Guide published by buggies, need to reduce heavy traffic around schools the Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau. More especially along SR 125 and Lloyd Road. joint marketing is needed among businesses and Seaman: County roads pretty well maintained organizations West Union: There’s a lot of untold history in the county involving Morse Chapel, the underground rail road and 6 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

Peebles: Getting better but need more TV and radio ads. County brochures are great but getting expensive to place ads in them.

Question Eleven > Should the economy of the county be centered on tourism and recreational Summary of Community Forums activities? If not, what other industries should be promoted? Manchester: Yes, along with more manufacturing/ industrial jobs. Need to promote spin-off jobs from the hospital and cancer center. Recreation/tourism good for 3 full months. Need to promote hunting, hiking and activities of the Nature Conservancy. Hospitality industry should be promoted as well, to augment the tourism and recreational sectors. A blend of both tourism and manufacturing would be ideal for the county. County needs more housing especially market rate rental units. West Union: Not entirely, need both. Tourism in the county is very diverse- hunting, the Amish, history and nature. Seaman: Shouldn’t put all your eggs in one basket so to civil war events. These should be researched speak. County also need industry and manufacturing to more and publicized to promote more tourism shore up tax base. More restaurants and a good grocery store would help everyone, tourists, residents and Seaman: Somewhat, but could be improved with more visitors. ads, strategically placed billboards and enhanced websites Winchester: Currently, tourism and recreational activities are a major economic component of the Winchester: More signage and directional signs needed. county, helping this sector would benefit everyone Having a visitor’s center would help greatly. Hunting through better marketing (TV and radio ads) and should be emphasized more via magazine ads adding biking to the existing trails. Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan 7

Peebles: Yes, to take advantage of the county’s natural Winchester: Yes, it is needed to protect property values, assets. Slowly, Adams is becoming a bedroom community for aesthetics, and to promote property maintenance. to Cincinnati. County should do more to attract visitors Peebles: It’s needed but may be too restrictive. from Hamilton and Franklin Counties. Additionally, the county should promote and enhance its lumber production, wood, wood products and paper Question Thirteen > What 2 or 3 things should the county pursue and achieve Summary of Community Forums over the next 5 to 10 years to improve the Question Twelve > As a way to protect economy of the county? key county assets, private property and guide future development, would you be supportive Manchester: Promote commercial of having county-wide zoning? development along SR 32, encourage camping along SR Manchester: Yes, it would help maintain 52 with boat access, campers property values, though from a could eventually be enticed village perspective it’s sometimes to become homeowners hard to enforce. Villages have or renters. Look limited funds towards zoning at potential of enforcement. Need to developing flea look out for unintended markets as consequences as well an added West Union: A very attraction political issue in the to the county, county, but in the scheme tap into existing of things it’s needed as a tool industrial workforce to guide future development in the county while protecting properties and West Union: Need to have key county assets. The atmosphere more restaurants in county, around this issue has changed somewhat need to promote specialty shops for the better. People are more aware of its for shoes, sporting goods and benefits. clothes. Need to promote and develop Seaman: Yes. Village has it now on limited basis. new technology such as WIFI, broad Enforcement has been an issue. 8 Adams County Economic Development/Tourism Plan

band access and activities for the kids/children in the West Union: More parking is needed at the village county (especially at night). They literally have square- the courts are using all of the available parking nowhere to go. spaces. There is limited infrastructure to support new development, this needs to be addressed especially Seaman: Need more businesses and sanitary sewers. There is need for more jail space which industry to bring in more jobs and sit is impacting police work. Many individuals are being

Summary of Community Forums down restaurants released after getting arrested due to lack of jail space. Winchester: More employment There is a growing issue of not being able to get opportunities and drug property and business insurance in the surrounding intervention programs. areas outside the villages. Peebles: Need to Seaman: Vine Street is too narrow and promote biking in needs work. Streets in village are poor. the county and Sidewalks need ADA curbing and connect trails to sidewalk connections to the schools accommodate need improvement. Storm them. drainage in the village is poor and the village also needs housing rehabilitation. Site of proposed nursing Question home project available for redevelopment. Fourteen > Are there any other Winchester: Need to address vacant comments or suggestions downtown buildings and spruce up the that you would like to downtown. make on issues that were not Peebles: Need to develop park in downtown. covered with these questions? Manchester: Need cooperation of property owners when it comes to revitalization of downtowns, villages need theaters, grocery stores and activities for the kids. County and village need to attract investors Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Market Analysis & Economic Development Priorities for Adams County, Ohio

Prepared for: Adams County, Ohio

Prepared by: Boulevard Strategies Dublin, Ohio

Final Report July 2015

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Table of Contents

Page

1. Introduction 3

2. Community Profile 8

3. Economic Analysis 18

4. Retail Market Analysis 36

5. Recreation and Tourism Potential 41

6. Economic Development Priorities 55

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

1. Introduction

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

1. Introduction

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County, formed in 1797 with about 3,000 settlers, is the third oldest county in the state of Ohio. It borders the Ohio River along the edge of the . Manchester, founded in 1791, was Adams County’s first county seat. Manchester, Ohio’s last stockaded village, was settled on the Ohio River. Indians often ambushed pioneers following trails along the river toward this well-known landmark. Manchester played a key role in the early settlement of the Northwest Territory.

Zane’s Trace, Ohio’s first official road was carved out of the wilderness in the late 18th century, crossing diagonally through Adams County (roughly where State Route 41 lies today). Later, Adams County was home to over 30 “stations” along the Underground Railroad prior to the Civil War. After the Civil War ended, Adams County surged to 35,000 residents by 1900. In the twentieth century, the population of Adams County was never lower than 19,000 or above 26,000 until 2000, when it reached 27,330, then 28,550 in 2010. It has always been a rugged, rural farming community. Even today, Adams County primarily consists of wooded valleys and forests (63% of land cover), cropland (28%) rolling pastures (7%), accounting for 98% of the County’s land area.

Today, Adams County is best known for its numerous settings for outdoors activities, including state parks, wilderness preserves, campgrounds and picnic shelters, and hiking/biking/nature trails; the Ohio Riverfront, rivers, creeks, and lakes; Amish country, antiques, quilt barns, historic inns, and weekend getaways; and motor speedways, outdoor country music concerts, hunting lodges, horse stables, and golf courses. It has significant tourist potential.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County Tourist Attractions

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

With assistance from Poggemeyer Design Group (PDG), Adams County was awarded a Local Government Innovative Fund grant from Ohio Development Services to prepare an Economic Development/Tourism Plan. The Plan, to be completed by July 2015, will include downtown assessments and revitalization strategies for the county’s five principal villages:

• West Union, the county seat in the center of Adams County (population 3,241)

• Peebles (population 1,782), Winchester (population 1,051), and Seaman (population 944) along State Route 32, also known as the Appalachian Highway, across the northern region of the county

• Historic (but largely forgotten) Manchester, along the Ohio River (population 2,023)

• And, Adams County, as a whole

It should be noted, however, that 68% of Adams County’s population stakeholder interviews, participation in the kickoff meeting and focus lives outside of the five villages mentioned above in its townships. groups, and field observations during several visits to Adams County Also, many of the county’s key assets, including the Serpent Mound and the surrounding area. All observations herein are reliant upon and State Memorial, several nature preserves, state forests, and nature inherently limited by the nature and extent of these inputs. trails, and Amish country, to name a few, are located outside of its municipalities.

The purpose of this report is to analyze market conditions in Adams County in terms of demographic and economic trends, retail, tourism and recreation, and leading employment sectors. At the conclusion of this analysis, market-based opportunities and challenges are identified that will provide direction to the overall Economic Development/Tourism Plan.

Boulevard Strategies pulled and analyzed information from a wide variety of websites, materials provided by Adams County officials, and other secondary sources in addition to review of Poggemeyer’s

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

2. Community Profile

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

2. Community Profile

Demographic Analysis

Population and Household Characteristics

Population and Household Trends

Adjacent Counties Ohio/Kentucky Population Adams County Combined* Benchmark (000)

2000 Census 27,330 220,942 15,395 2013 Estimate 28,105 225,167 15,966 2013 Population Density 47 95 195 2020 Projection 28,350 228,918 16,248 Avg. Annual Growth, 2000-2020 +51 (0.2%) +399 (0.2%) +43 (0.3%) % Under 18, 2012 24.5 23.2 23.1 % Over 64, 2012 15.8 15.9 14.6 Median Age, 2012 39.5 38.9 38.4

% White 97.6 95.7 84.8

Households

2012 Estimate 10,923 85,211 6,247 2012 Avg. HH Size 2.58 2.64 2.47 % HHs with Child(ren) 31 28 28 2-Parents 20 19 19 1-Parent 11 9 9 Empty Nest Couples HHs 41 41 35 % Non-Family HHs 28 31 37

*Includes Brown, Highland, Pike and Scioto Counties in Ohio & Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Development Services, Kentucky State Data Center, and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

As shown in the preceding chart, Adams County had an estimated population of 28,105 persons in 2013, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Ohio Development Services predicts that Adams’ population will grow slightly to 28,350 persons by the end of this decade. This low growth rate is generally in line with the six counties with which it shares borders (Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto in Ohio and Lewis and Mason in Kentucky). It should be noted though that Brown and Highland are growing at a faster pace than those counties to the east and south of Adams. This undoubtedly reflects suburban sprawl from the Cincinnati region that has not impacted Adams County to any significant degree so far.

Compared to adjacent counties and the Ohio-Kentucky benchmark, Adams County is blessed with many children. 31% of its households have at least one child (vs. 28% benchmark) and nearly 25% of its population is under age 18 (vs. 23% benchmark).

Its average household size is an above-average 2.58 persons. It would be higher except that Adams County also has a high proportion of “empty-nest” couple households (41% vs. Ohio/Kentucky benchmark of 35%). Overall, 72% of Adams County’s households are occupied by families (2 or more related persons) compared to only 63% of all Ohio/Kentucky households. This is a family-oriented market.

However, Adams County also has an above-average proportion of senior citizens, age 65 and older at 15.8% of all persons (vs. Ohio/Kentucky benchmark of 14.6%). Its median age is 39.5 years but it has large numbers of both children and seniors.

Adams County, like the counties adjacent to it, is not racially diverse. It is nearly 98% white (vs. 85% for all of Ohio and Kentucky).

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Education, Occupation, and Income

Education, Occupation, Income

Adjacent Counties Ohio/Kentucky Adams County Combined* Benchmark

Educati on, 2012 (Adults 25 and Over) % with High School Diploma/GED +, 2012 77.6 80 86.6 % with Bachelor's Degree +, 2012 10.7 12.6 24

Occupation, 2012 White Collar 47% 50% 58% Blue Collar 33% 29% 25% Service 20% 21% 17% TOTAL 100% 100% 100%

Household Income, 2012 Under $25,000 38% 36% 28% $25,000-$49,999 30% 28% 27% $50,000-$74,999 15% 18% 18% $75,000-$99,999 8% 9% 12% $100,000 or More 9% 9% 11% TOTAL 100% 100% 100%

Median HH Income $34,282 $38,034 $46,696 Per Capita Income $18,236 $19,225 $25,129 % Income Supported by Transfer Payments 36.2 34 21.8

*Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio & Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Department of Development, Kentucky State Data Center and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

As shown on the previous page, Adams County has relatively low levels Adams County lacks middle to upper-middle income households, of formal education. Less than 78% of adults have a high school those earning between $50,000 and $100,000 per year. Only 23% of diploma or G.E.D., below average compared to its neighboring counties Adams County’s fall into this range vs. 27% of households in contiguous (80%) and far below the combined Ohio/Kentucky average (87%). counties and 30% of all Ohio/Kentucky households. Low female labor Adams fares even worse in terms in college graduates with only 10.7% participation rates in Adams County (50% vs. Ohio/Kentucky of its adults having earned a bachelor’s degree or higher, less than half benchmark of 59%) likely play a contributing factor as most higher of the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. income households have two earners.

Workforce development is a key challenge in improving Adams Residents of Adams County, as well as residents of adjacent counties County’s economy. Adams County received $5 million in federal depend on transfer payments collectively for about 36% of personal workforce training in 2012. This works out to $178 per resident vs. $290 income, well-above the 22% Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. Transfer per resident for all Ohioans and $270 for all Appalachian Ohioans. payments include retirement and disability benefits, medical payments, Adams County would need to receive about $8 million of much-needed welfare/food stamps, unemployment benefits, veterans’ benefits, training to be on the same footing as its peers. federal education and training assistance, and other government payments to individuals. The typical Adams County household receives Adams County is blue collar. One-third (33%) of its residents still hold $16,938 per year in government assistance, 25% more than the average blue collar factory, warehouse, farming, and other occupations that for all Ohio/Kentucky households. require physical labor vs. only one in four (25%) of all Ohio/Kentucky workers. Adams County also has an above-average proportion of service workers, 20% vs. 17% for Ohio and Kentucky, overall. While white collar employment is way below average in Adams County compared to the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark, it still accounts for 47% of all occupations of its residents.

Median household income at $34,282 is below-average in Adams County, 27% below the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. Even within its own region, it ranks below each of its neighbors on this measure except Lewis County, Kentucky, a very impoverished area. Adams County has the second lowest median household income of Ohio’s 88 counties. Per capita income at $18,236 in Adams County is 26% below the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark and fifth lowest among Ohio’s 88 counties.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Housing Patterns

Housing Patterns

Adjacent Counties Ohio/Kentucky Housing Units, 2012 Adams County Combined Benchmark (000)

Total 12,193 99,835 7,052 % Vacant 15.4 14.1 11.4 Occupied 10,923 85,751 6,247 % Owner-Occupied 73.4 72.2 68.2 % Renter-Occupied 26.6 27.8 31.8 TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0

Units In Structure, 2012

1 68.0% 72.1% 72.1% 2+ 5.2% 11.1% 21.4% Mobile Home 26.8% 16.8% 6.5% TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Year Built, 2012

2000 and Later 10.8% 11.2% 11.1% 1980-1999 36.4% 28.8% 23.6% 1960-1979 24.4% 22.6% 27.2% 1940-1959 12.0% 17.5% 19.6% 1939 or Before 16.4% 19.9% 18.5% TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Median Year Built 1977 1970 1968

Median Household Value, 2012 $94,600 $98,300 $129,900 Median Monthly Rent, 2012 $552 $584 $690

Mean Travel Time to Work, 2012 31.8m 27.8m 22.9m

*Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio, & Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Development Services, Kentucky State Data Center, and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County had a total of 12,913 housing units in 2012, of which About 5% of Adams County’s households turn over each year in terms 1,989 (15.4%) were vacant. This represents an increase of 1,031 units those moving into and those leaving the County (i.e., not including since 2000 but also 620 more housing vacancies. The housing crisis intra-county moves). It is a stable community with many long-time and recession of the last half of the 2000’s impacted Adams County and residents. its neighbors just as severely as the rest of Ohio and Kentucky. Adams County has not issued a construction permit for new housing since Adams County has a median housing value of $94,600, 27% below the 2009. Ohio/Kentucky benchmark (note that income levels in Adams County are also about 27% below the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark). Counties Adams County has 10,923 occupied units of which 73.4% are owner- surrounding Adams County have median housing values ranging from occupied, 5 percentage points above the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. $119,100 in Brown County to $61,100 in Lewis County. Adams County However, it has an extraordinarily high percentage of mobile homes at falls within the middle of the pack among its neighbors. 26.8%, or more than 4 times the Ohio/Kentucky average. If mobile homes are taken from the equation, Adams County’s home Rents are fairly low in Adams County at $522 per month on average, owner/renter ratio (64%) is comparable to the Ohio/Kentucky 11% below its neighbors’ median and 24% below the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark (66%). benchmark. It is not known if this is due to low demand or older product with fewer modern amenities available. Only 5.2% of Adams County’s housing units are in multi-family rental structures, compared to 21.4% for all of Ohio and Kentucky. Almost all In terms of senior housing, Adams County has a few independent living of Adams County’s apartments are located in its 5 primary villages. retirement communities and assisted living facilities. There are a total Much of the existing multi-family rental housing is at least 25 years old, of seven multi-housing developments in Adams County with a total of of average quality, and is mostly government-subsidized. 148 units for rent. Adams County has about 4,500 persons age 65 or older, and counting, as the first waves of Baby Boomers have been However, it appears that most households who cannot qualify for a reaching retirement age since 2011. While most folks would prefer to mortgage are buying mobile homes in Adams County and renting lots age in place, some will not be able to do so due to health and/or in the townships instead of renting apartments in town. Job losses in financial difficulties. Also, Adams County is seen as an attractive place Adams County have dampened demand for modern multi-family units to retire to by some urban dwellers tired of the “rat race”. for new workers in Adams County. Adams County commuters travel longer (31.8 minutes, or over an Housing units, in general, are much newer in Adams County, than in hour a day roundtrip), on average, to work than the residents of any Ohio and Kentucky overall (by 7 years, on average) but this likely contiguous county. They have a 39% longer average commute than reflects an influx of mobile homes into the area during the 1970’s and the typical Ohio/Kentucky worker. Over 40% of Adams County’s 1980’s. workforce travels to jobs outside of its borders.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Town and Country

Demographic Summary Town and Country

Remainder of West Union Manchester Peebles Winchester Seaman 5 Villages Adams Village Village Village Village Village Combined County

2010 Pop ulation 3,241 2,023 1,782 1,051 944 9,041 19,509 Change Since 1990 145 -200 0 73 -69 -51 3,230 % Under Age 18 23.4 26.7 27.5 27.3 26.9 25.8 23.8 % Age 65+ 16.5 15.6 14.7 15.6 16.3 15.7 15.9 Median Age 40.1 38.1 36.5 35.9 35.5 37.9 40.3

2010 Households 1,322 818 758 420 368 3,686 7,237 Average Household Size 2.29 2.47 2.34 2.48 2.57 2.39 2.67

% HHs with Child(ren) 28 30 29 29 33 29 32 2-Parents 13 15 14 18 21 15 23 1-Parent 15 15 15 11 12 14 9 % Empty-Nest Couples 33 35 31 36 36 34 44 % Non-Family HHs 37 35 40 35 31 37 24

2010 Housing Units 1,493 1,032 867 462 425 4,279 8,634 % Vacant 11.5 20.7 12.6 9.1 13.4 113.9 16.2 Owner/Renter Occupancy 50/50 56/44 46/54 59/41 58/42 52/48 84/16

2011 Median Household Income $30,165 $19,827 $20,481 $30,346 $28,211 $25,519 $38,348

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Development Services, Kentucky State Data Center, and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County consists of five main villages (county seat West Union, Winchester, located along the Appalachian Highway (US 32) near the Manchester along the Ohio River, and Peebles, Winchester, and Brown County western border, has grown into a village of 1,051 Seaman, linked by U.S. Highway 32), a couple of hamlets (Cherry Fork persons, a gain of 73 persons since 1990. It has the lowest proportion of and Rome) and unincorporated township land. The preceding chart single-parent families among the five primary villages (11%). In terms of offers a side-by-side demographic comparison among the five villages housing, Winchester has the lowest vacancy rate in Adams County at and compares the population that resides in the towns to those who 9% of all housing units. 59% of its occupied housing units are owner- live in the country in Adams County. occupied, the highest among the five villages. It edges out West Union for highest median household income ($30,346 to $30,165). West Union is Adams County’s largest village (population 3,241) and its commercial and government center. It has increased in population Seaman, in between Winchester and Peebles on US 32, is the smallest since 2000 even though Adams County Regional Medical Center in 2007 of the five primary villages in Adams County. It currently has 944 relocated to Seaman. Its population skews somewhat older than the persons and is slowly losing population. The growth spurt predicted rest of the County with fewer minors and more seniors, and features when Adams County Regional Medical Center re-located to Seaman small household sizes. West Union has more single-parent families from West Union has yet to occur. Like Peebles, Seaman lacks housing than it has 2-parent families with child(ren). It consists of 50% options for those who can afford better homes. Seaman has the homeowners and 50% renters. West Union has the second highest highest average household size (2.57) and highest percentage of median household income of the five villages at $30,165. households with children among the five villages. It consists of 58% homeowners. The historic Village of Manchester has a population of 2,023 persons, down 200 persons since 1990. It has the highest housing vacancy rate Altogether, West Union, Manchester, Peebles, Winchester, and in the County at 20.7%, in spite of its riverfront views and access partly Seaman have a combined population of just over 9,000 persons, due to flooding issues and the cost of insurance. Manchester has the virtually the same as it was in 1990. Even if they were combined into lowest median household income of Adams County’s five main villages one city, it would be only the 224th largest city in Ohio. While residents at less than $20,000. and visitors alike cherish Adams County’s unspoiled rustic beauty, a lack of urban amenities may be holding back economic development. Peebles is home to the GE Aviation’s Peebles Test Facility, one of the world’s most advanced jet engine test centers, but that has not In contrast to the five small villages, Adams County’s unincorporated translated to economic prosperity for many of the village’s 1,782 rural townships currently hold over twice as much population (19,509) residents (the same number who lived there in 1990). Its median and have grown by 3,230 persons since 1990. In other words, all of household income at $20,481 is only slightly above that of Manchester. Adams County’s net population growth over the past 24 years has It has the highest proportion of non-family households in the County occurred outside of the villages. Adams County’s most populous (40%) and the highest proportion of renters (54%). It does not have townships are Tiffin (2,311), Meigs (2,115), Liberty (1,958), Sprigg housing suitable for well-paid engineers and executives who may work (1,857), Bratton (1,456), Oliver (1,318), and Scott (1,241). nearby.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

44% of township households consist of empty-nest couples and another 32% still have at least one child at home. Only one in four households is a non-family household. 84% of households are owner- occupied, including mobile home owners who likely rent their lots. The housing vacancy rate in the townships is fairly high at 16.2%.

Those residents living in Adams County’s townships have 50% higher median household income than those living in the five villages ($38,348 to $25,519). However, household income for the township areas is about the same as the median ($38,034) for the six counties contiguous to Adams County and 18% below the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. Also, townships located along the Brown County border to the west and south of the Highland County border have higher incomes than those to the south and east of the county seat.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

3. Economic Analysis

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

3. Economic Analysis Self-employed workers and public sector workers, including school This section analyzes U.S. Census County Business Patterns data district employees, are not included by the Census in these tables primarily from 2012 and 2013, the latest years available. Adams but they have each been examined separately toward the end of County is compared to its six adjacent counties, as a whole, and this section. Ohio/Kentucky benchmarks. The analysis focuses on paid employment in Adams’ ten largest private industry sectors – Healthcare/Social Assistance, Retail Trade, Manufacturing, Utilities, Accommodations/Foodservice, Financial Services (which includes Insurance and Real Estate), Commercial Services, Construction, Wholesale Trade, and Professional Services. Educational Services (private sector only) and Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation are included in several tables as well, even though they are not yet prominent in Adams County (but probably should be in the future).

Estimates have been developed where there is incomplete data reporting (due to privacy concerns). These estimates are based on number of establishments, employee size ranges of those establishments, historical data where available, regional averages, state averages and information provided by Adams County on employers with 10 or more employees. An important departure from County Business Patterns was made for the Utilities industry sector, for which the Census incorrectly lists the 2,440 megawatt JM Stuart power plant as being in the town of Aberdeen in Brown County. In fact, it is four miles east of Aberdeen in Adams County in Sprigg Township along the Ohio River. The plant’s operator, Dayton Power & Light (DP&L) is Adams County’s largest employer with over 500 employees, according to Adams County economic development officials. DP&L also operates a smaller 600 megawatt facility known as Killen Station in Wrightsville in Adams County also along the Ohio River.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Key Industry Sectors

Employment Profile Adams County 2012 vs. 2002

Adjacent OH/KY % Change Counties Industry Sector 2012 2002 Change 2012 vs. 2002 Combined* 2012 vs. 2002 % Change No. % to Total No. % to Total

1. Healthcare/ Social Services 1,113 25.1 1,019 20.4 +96 (+9%) 15% 18% 2. Retail Trade 861 19.4 1,073 21.5 -212 (-20%) -4% -9% 3. Manufacturing 634 14.3 728 14.6 -94 (-12%) -40% -23% 4. Utilities 581 (e) 13.1 584(e) 11.7 -3 (-1%) 18% -4% 5. Accommodations/ Foodservice 501 11.3 719 14.4 -218 (-30%) 1% 7% 6. Financial Services 176 (e) 4.0 217 4.4 -41 (-19%) -8% -9% 7. Commercial Services 125 2.8 131 2.6 -6 (-5%) -13% -12% 8. Construction 114 (e) 2.6 94 1.9 +20 (+21%) -28% -24% 9. Wholesale Trade 112 2.5 114 2.3 -2 (-2%) -29% -7% 10. Professional Services 105 2.4 97 1.9 +8 (+8%) 12% 6%

Subtotal, Top 10 Sectors 4,322 97.3 4,776 95.8 -454 (-11%) -8% -3% Educational Services 27 (e) 0.6 15 0.3 +12 (+80%) -5% 18% Arts, Entertainment & Recreation 25 0.6 25 0.5 0 (0%) 11% 4%

ALL SECTORS 4,443 100 4,985 100 -542 (-11%) -8% -3%

Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees *Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio & Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Adams County, and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Employment Profile Adams County vs. Benchmarks

Adjacent Counties Adams County OH/KY Benchmark Industry Sector Combined* % to Total % to Total % to Total

1. Healthcare/ Social Assistance 25.1 26.3 17.6 2. Retail Trade 19.4 17.1 12.7 3. Manufacturing 14.3 14.3 14.0 4. Utilities 13.1 1.3 6.5 5. Accommodations/ Foodservice 11.3 11.8 9.8 6. Financial Services 4.0 4.5 0.5 7. Commercial Services 2.8 3.3 4.4 8. Construction 2.6 3.2 2.7 9. Wholesale Trade 2.5 2.2 4.8 10. Professional Services 2.4 5.6 4.9

Subtotal, Top 10 Sectors 97.3 89.8 77.9 Educational Services 0.6 1.0 2.4 Arts. Entertainment & Recreation 0.6 0.8 1.3

ALL SECTORS 100.0 100.0 100.0

Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees * Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio and Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Development Services, Adams County, and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

It is a wonder that Adams County has been experiencing any population establishments with 211 employees during this time period. This growth since 2000 given that it lost about 11% of its private sector jobs includes adult day care agencies, home cleaning/companionship (over 500 jobs) between 2002 and 2012, going from 4,985 to 4,443. The agencies, and senior activity organizers and other private and nonprofit six counties adjacent to Adams lost 8% of private paid employment organizations that provide non-residential/non-medical social while Ohio/Kentucky lost 3% of private sector jobs over the same time assistance to the elderly, the developmentally handicapped, and period. persons with disabilities.

Healthcare Sector Adams County has 12.2 Social Assistance workers per 1000 residents, compared to 8.4 per 1000 residents for the six adjacent counties. Social Healthcare and Social Assistance is the top employer for Adams Assistance jobs pay $14,444 on average in Adams County ($6,997 less a County as it is in all adjacent counties except Lewis as well as Ohio and year than retail jobs). While Social Assistance employment is Kentucky, in general. With 1,113 jobs, Healthcare and Social Services undoubtedly needed given the amount of poverty in Adams County, account for about one-fourth of private sector jobs (25.1%) in Adams this subsector is not helping its economy too much in terms of adding County, up from 20.4% in 2002. On the other hand, its Healthcare fulltime jobs with decent wages. sector grew by only 96 jobs between 2002 and 2012, a 9% increase compared to a 15% increase in surrounding counties and 18% at the In contrast, Adams County lost 40 employees in Ambulatory Ohio/Kentucky level. Major Adams County employers in this sector Healthcare Services between 2002 and 2012. This category primarily include the aforementioned Adams County Regional Medical Center consists of family doctors’ and dentists’ practices and outpatient (284 employees) Adams-Brown Economic Opportunities, Inc. treatment centers. Adams County appears to have lost about 16% of (affordable housing services, 119 employees), Adams County Manor its doctors’ office jobs (outside of Adams County Regional Medical (skilled nursing facility with 106 employees), and several nursing Center) during a period in which its population grew by about 2%. By homes, home healthcare agencies, and medical clinics, among others. contrast, the counties contiguous to Adams County collectively added Some of those interviewed believe that Adams County Regional 25% more employees in Ambulatory Healthcare Services between 2002 Medical Center may have lost patients to Meadowview Regional and 2012. Medical Center across the river in Maysville, Kentucky when it moved north to Seaman, Ohio in 2008. Adams County has 7.6 Ambulatory Healthcare workers per 1000 residents, less than half of the average for the adjacent counties (17.1 Closer examination shows that while the hospital experienced a small per 1000 residents). According to a 2010 Ohio Department of Health gain in employment (an estimated + 19 jobs) between 2002 and 2012, study, Ohio had one primary care physician for every 3,436 persons; this most of Adams County’s jobs gains occurred in the Social Assistance ratio was one family doctor for every 4,668 persons in Adams County portion of this sector which grew from an estimated 173 jobs in 2002 to (which has large proportions of children and elderly). Adams County 342 in 2012, nearly doubling. This compares to a 24% increase in had 6 primary care physicians in 2008. A shortage of primary care contiguous counties. Services to the Elderly and Persons with physicians and dentists also impacts Adams County Regional Medical Disabilities increased from 3 establishments with 94 employees to 5 Center as it lacks local practice referrals for non-routine healthcare

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

needs. Most importantly, a lack of primary health care practices There are several other loan repayment programs at the federal level negatively impact quality of life for residents of Adams County beyond that may apply to Adams County: economic effects. • The National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Only 45% of Ohio’s medical school graduates practice in Ohio upon Program (NHSC) provides up to $50,000 in loan repayments graduation. There is currently a nationwide shortage of 7,460 primary for primary care providers who serve at least two years within care physicians in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), such as a HPSA. Adams County, according to the American Medical Association. States • The Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) such as Ohio are responding to this need by opening new medical program offers loan forgiveness for those working in a public schools, expanding existing programs, and encouraging high school service organization, such as a hospital, after the recipient has students to pursue medical careers. completed ten years of loan repayments. • NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program is a highly The typical medical student will graduate with $180,000 in education competitive program dedicated to providing care in America’s debt, according to the National Institute for Health (NIH). Several underserved communities. Participants have 60% of loans states, including Ohio, offer incentives such as bonuses, scholarships, repaid for them in exchange for a two-year commitment to a and loan repayment programs to medical practitioners who relocate to needy area. HPSAs. • The Federal Perkins Loan Discharge/Cancellation Program is available to graduating nurses with Federal Perkins loans. The Ohio Physician Loan Repayment Program offers $25,000 to 100% loan forgiveness is available after five years of qualified $35,000 for a minimum of two years of full-time practice in a HPSA. nursing employment. Primary care physicians in family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, geriatrics, psychiatry, and adolescent medicine Note that all of these programs are competitive with more applicants are eligible to apply. than funding can accommodate. Generally 40% of new applicants are successful in obtaining assistance while 70% of applicants seeking to The Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program (NEALP) offers loans renew their applications are accepted. of up to $1,500 a year to Ohio students enrolled in approved Ohio pre- licensure nurse education programs. Recipients who serve as full-time Adams County ranked as having the fifth worst set of health factors nurses for five years in Ohio qualify for 100% loan forgiveness. among Ohio’s 88 counties, according to a 2013 University of Wisconsin study, further demonstrating the acute need for medical professionals in Adams County. (Scioto and Pike were ranked first and second). Health factors measured include tobacco use, diet and exercise, alcohol use, sexual activity, access to healthcare, quality of healthcare, education, employment, income/poverty, family/social support,

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

community safety, air/water quality, access to parks, and access to In terms of higher-paying Manufacturing jobs, Adams is holding its healthy foods. own. While it lost 12% of its Manufacturing jobs between 2002 and 2012, that is not that bad compared to the devastating loss of 40% of Nursing and Residential Care comprises another key subsector within all Manufacturing jobs in surrounding counties and 23% of all Healthcare & Social Assistance. Adams County lost 52 jobs (16%) in this Manufacturing jobs at the Ohio/Kentucky level over the same time subsector between 2002 (327) and 2012 (275); meanwhile, contiguous period. Adams County scored a major coup in 2008, when air filter counties registered 10% growth. Adams lost one skilled nursing facility, manufacturer Columbus Industries (117 employees) moved into a as employment in nursing homes for the elderly dropped from 309 in vacant building in West Union; otherwise, it would have suffered a loss five facilities in 2002 to an estimated 267 workers in four facilities in of 29% of Manufacturing jobs without this addition. The GE Peebles 2012. During the same time period, the number of persons living in Test Facility has been a steadying influence in Adams County’s Adams County age 65 and over increased by 7.3%. However, Adams economy. It currently has 305 employees on its payroll (plus another County has 62.5 nursing home workers per senior citizen which is line 220 independent contractors) up from about 250 employees since it with contiguous counties (63.4). Thus, this decline may have been a announced a $90 million facilities expansion in May 2007. GE Aviation market correction rather than a shortage of nursing home workers. is headquartered near Cincinnati. “Peebles is critical to our production strategy”, said CEO Scott Donelly in a recent news article. According to the Brookings Institution, the most numerous healthcare occupations not requiring a bachelor’s degree include pre- Wood products manufacturing was a major industry in Adams County baccalaureate registered nurses, medical assistants, psychiatric and in 1998 (the first year that data under the new Census classifications home health aides, personal care aides, and licensed practical nurses. known as NAISC codes were collected). It had 17 firms with 406 Such jobs average about $25,000 to $35,000 per year in wages. employees. It had 18 plants with 309 employees by 2005 and then 13 companies with 120 employees by 2012 (average wage of $25,467). Other Key Economic Sectors Interestingly, Jobs Ohio Network predicts a 15% increase in wood product manufacturing employment in Ohio’s Appalachian territory Adams County lost 20% of its Retail jobs between 2002 and 2012 but between 2010 and 2020. This has not been the trend in Adams County, this was a widespread phenomenon as automation and information where much of the available timber is protected by environmental technology have replaced labor and as e-commerce takes an increasing regulations. share of retail sales. Still, in spite of population growth, Adams lost over 200 retail jobs, which represents a much higher percentage than Utilities are another key industry segment in Adams County that is was lost in adjacent counties (-4%) and at the Ohio/Kentucky level (- dominated by a large employer, Dayton Power & Light. The industry 9%). In particular, Adams is losing its small retailers; those retailers has an estimated 581 paid employees, about the same as in 2002. It with fewer than 10 employees shrank from 83 in 2002 to 54 in 2012. accounts for disproportionately large share of private sector Wal-Mart with 240 employees in West Union anchors this sector. Also employment in Adams County (13.1%) compared to surrounding of note are several small grocers, auto and tractor dealerships, dollar counties (1.3%) or the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark (6.5%). stores, and hardware/lumber retailers (see Chapter 3 for more details).

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County is trying to promote tourism but it lost 30% of its Services sector increasing from 15 employees in 2002 to 29 employees employment in the Accommodations and Foodservice category in 2012. between 2002 and 2012. In 2002, there were 14 full-service restaurants employing 293 persons; by 2012, there were nine left, employing 253 The top ten sectors account for 97.3 % of private sector employment in persons. In comparison, Brown County has 30 sit-down restaurants and Adams County. It also should be noted that the Transportation and Scioto County has 40 full-service restaurants. Blue laws in Adams Warehousing segment, with 101 jobs in 2012, just missed the top ten, a County are an impediment to attracting or nurturing new independent large percentage increase versus an estimated 60 workers in 2002. restaurants who typically generally are busiest on the weekends. State About half of this sector consists of Specialized Freight Truck minimum mark-ups protect margins, making alcohol sales a key profit Transportation Services. center for most restaurateurs. Adams also went from 21 limited service restaurants in 2002 to 16 in 2012. Reversing these trends should be a As mentioned above, employment in the Educational Services and the priority if Adams wants to capitalize on its recreational and tourism Arts/Entertainment/Recreation sectors with 27 (e) and 25 jobs, assets. respectively, is fairly small in Adams County. Southern State Community College plans to open a branch in Adams County in the Adams County lost 19% of its jobs tied to the Financial Services future. If/when its proposal moves forward, Southern State will industry (including finance, banking, insurance, and real estate) strengthen workforce training and raise the County’s general level of between 2002 and 2012, going from 217 positions to an estimated 176, educational attainment. It has proposed majors in environmental as the housing crisis took its toll. Adams County still has 10 commercial health and safety, machining technology, welding, and the culinary bank branches, the same number it had in 2002. Meanwhile, the arts, along with short-term workforce training programs, and general number of insurance agencies fell from 12 in 2002 to 8 in 2012 and the education such as adult literacy and GED programming. Southern number of real estate agencies dropped from 9 to 5. State currently hosts about 3,700 students (57% full-time undergraduates/24% part-time undergraduates/19% non-degree Construction company employment (i.e. not including self-employed students), 55 faculty members, and 110 staff on its four campuses in contractors) rose slightly by 20 jobs in contrast to step declines in Hillsboro, Washington C.H., Wilmington and Sardinia. contiguous counties (-28%) and at the Ohio/Kentucky level (-24%). 28 of Adams’ 34 construction companies have 1 to 4 employees and none In the meantime, the Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center in West have more than 15 employees. The change could be a result of formerly Union, offers a variety of technical programs and adult education self-employed contractors restructuring as businesses and/or taking on programs. partners not because there was an increase in construction activity. As shown in Chapter 5 of this report, Adams is sorely lacking in Rounding out the top ten industry sectors are Wholesale Trade (112 Arts/Entertainment/Recreation support amenities and built venues in employees) and Professional Services (105 employees), both of which comparison to its neighbors. were about the same size in 2012 as they were in 2002. Accounting Services is a small but growing subsector within the Professional

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Employment

Jobs Per 1,000 Residents Whereas the previous table examined Adams’ key industry sectors in Adjacent relation to its total private employment base, this chart places its jobs Adams OH/KY Industry Sector Counties picture in the context of population size. Overall, Adams County had County Benchmark Combined* 158.1 private sector jobs per 1000 residents, compared to 213.7 per 1. Heal thcare/ Social 1000 residents for surrounding counties and 377.5 at the 39.4 56.0 66.5 Services Ohio/Kentucky level. It is deficient in job opportunities in every key 2. Retail Trade 30.6 36.4 48.0 sector of its economy except for Utilities and Social Assistance. 3. Manufacturing 22.6 30.5 52.7 4. Utilities 20.6 2.8 2.0 10,322 Adams County residents were employed in 2012, far more than 5. Accommodations/ the 8,020 positions available inside the county’s borders. Adams 17.8 25.1 37.1 Foodservice County is exporting 3,849 workers each week, over 37% of its 6. Financial Services 6.3 9.6 24.6 workforce to other counties in Ohio and Kentucky. It also imports 7. Commercial Services 4.3 7.1 16.7 1,547 workers from other counties so it has a net out-flow of about 8. Construction 4.2 5.4 15.0 2,300 workers. Brown, Highland, and Scioto also export more labor than they have jobs for (Pike has been an importer of labor, but this 9. Wholesale Trade 4.0 4.7 18.3 may be changing). 10. Professional Services 3.7 12.1 18.7

Subtotal, Top 10 Sectors 154.3 189.7 322.2 These exported workers are trained, valued employees, many of whom probably would rather reduce their commute times and work in Educational Services 1.0 2.1 9.2 Adams County (assuming all other things are equal such as pay and Arts. Entertainment & 0.9 1.7 4.8 benefits). Potential employers would have a large experienced labor Recreation pool from which to draw, in addition to those who are currently unemployed. ALL SECTORS 158.1 213.7 377.5

Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees

* Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio and Lewis and

Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio Development Services, Adams County,

and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Average Annual Wages by Industry Sector, 2012

Adjacent Adams vs. Ohio/Kentucky Adams vs. Industry Sector Adams County Counties Contiguous Benchmark OH/KY Combined* Counties

1. Healthcare/ Social Services $26,878 $32,366 $40,707 86% 66% 2. Retail Trade $21,441 $22,184 $35,560 97% 89%

3. Manufacturing $58,032 $44,047 $52,056 132% 111% 4. Utilities $36,687 $39,409 $36,399 93% 101%

5. Accommodations/ Foodservice $11,772 $11,663 $13,077 101% 90% 6. Financial Services $36,384 $37,787 $60,541 96% 60%

7. Commercial Services $24,448 $17,702 $23,544 138% 104% 8. Construction $42,991 $38,020 $50,590 113% 85%

9. Wholesale Trade $34,830 $36,843 $55,009 95% 68% 10. Professional Services $36,684 $43,075 $60,481 85% 61%

OVERALL TOP 10 $30,684 $32,988 $39,936 93% 77%

Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees *Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio and Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Average Annual Wages

The chart on the previous page compares average annual wages in Adams County’s top ten industry sectors to its six contiguous counties and to the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark. Overall, Adams County workers earn $30,684 a year, 93% of what workers in the same ten industries earn in contiguous counties ($32,988) and 77% of the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark ($39,936). However, this varies widely by industry.

Wages are relatively low at $26,878 on average for Adams County’s largest segment, Healthcare and Social Services. This is 14% lower than wages for the same industry in surrounding counties ($32,366) and 34% below the average Healthcare/Social Services wage for Ohio and Kentucky ($40,707). This is a result of the mix of companies within this segment for Adams County, which seems to be heavier on lower paying jobs in social service agencies ($14,444, on average) and nursing homes ($19,446 per year) as opposed to doctors, dentists, and other highly skilled medical professionals and their support workers ($37,621 per year) and Adams County Regional Medical Center employees (estimated $41,332 per year).

In contrast, Manufacturing wages are quite high in Adams County at $58,032 per year on average, 32% higher than in neighboring counties ($44,047) and 11% above the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark ($52,056). This undoubtedly reflects high paying research and development positions at the GE Peebles Test Facility.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

2012 Establishments and Establishment Size

Adams County Adjacent Counties Combined* Ohio/Kentucky Benchmark

Industry Sector Establishments Avg. Size Establishments Avg. Size Establishments Avg. Size

1. Healthcare/ Social Services 49 22.7 509 24.8 39,767 26.7 2. Retail Trade 77 11.1 703 11.7 51,898 14.8 3. Manufacturing 24 26.4 150 45.8 18,265 46.0 4. Utilities 5 116.2 22 46.0 972 32.9 5. Accommodations/ Foodservice 34 14.7 354 16.0 31,093 19.1 6. Financial Services 30 5.9 343 6.3 37,040 10.6 7. Commercial Services 45 2.8 437 3.7 39,195 7.2 8. Construction 34 3.6 268 4.3 26,518 8.6 9. Wholesale Trade 9 12.4 106 9.9 18.627. 15.7 10. Professional Services 26 4.0 198 13.7 32,105 9.3 Subtotal, Top 10 Sectors 333 13.3 2,935 14.6 293,477 16.5

Educational Services 6 4.5 19 24.4 3,954 37.2 Arts. Entertainment & Recreation 6 4.2 45 8.3 5,099 15.1

ALL SECTORS 373 11.9 3,479 13.9 340,637 17.7

Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees *Includes Brown, Highland, Pike, and Scioto Counties in Ohio and Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Small Business Retention and Expansion

One way to increase employment opportunities is to attract new Government Workers and Self-Employed Persons employers, like Columbus Industries, to Adams County. However, Adams County went from 434 establishments in 2002 to 373 in 2012. Adjacent Adams Ohio/Kentucky Counties 56 of the net 62 employers Adams lost during this period had less than County Benchmark 20 employees. It is having difficulty in retaining and expanding its Combined smaller companies. (This is a common problem almost everywhere Federal/State Workers, 2012 108 2,775 301,102 but one that still needs to be addressed as small companies account for most of the growth in the U.S. economy.) Per 1,000 Residents 4.0 12.3 18.9 Average Annual Salary $43,294 $44,185 $59,518 Even though Adams has lost many of its smaller companies, the remaining ones still tend to be undersized, relative to industry peers in Local Government Workers 1,448 9,795 659,823 the adjacent counties as well as at the Ohio/Kentucky level, as shown in the exhibit above. Companies in its top ten sectors average 13.3 Per 1,000 Residents 53.4 43.5 41.4 employees, compared to 14.6 for the contiguous counties and 16.5 at Average Annual Salary $32,911 $34,304 $40,203 the Ohio/Kentucky level. If Adams’ companies in these ten industries were to expand to the average size of their peers in contiguous All Government Workers, 2012 1,556 12,570 960,925 counties, 430 paid positions would be added to the Adams County economy. Retention and expansion of existing private employers are Per 1,000 Residents 57.4 55.8 60 just as important as attracting new companies to Adams County. Average Annual Salary $32,362 $36,181 $46,079

Also important is encouraging new business start-ups. Adams County Self-Employed Persons, 2012 854 5,987 381,780 averages only 5.2 new business starts per 100 existing businesses, one of the lowest start-up rates in the state. This compares to 9.8 in Per 1,000 Residents 30.4 27.1 24.8 Highland, 9.6 in Pike, 8.8 in Brown, 7.3 in Scioto, 8.2 for all Appalachian As % of Private Workforce 17 11 6 counties in Ohio, and 10.0 for the whole state, according to Ohio

Development Services. Yet, Adams County has a high percentage of Private/Public Sector 76%/24% 81%/19% 87%/13% self-employed persons (see below). They are not creating jobs for Employment Private Average Wage/Public others, though. 0.908 0.914 0.856 Average Wage

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

As shown in the chart 0n the preceding page, Adams County has Public sector jobs accounted for 24% of all employment in Adams relatively few Federal and State Government workers (108) for a County in 2012. This compares to 19% of all employment in county of its size. In 2012, it had only 4 Federal/State workers per 1000 contiguous counties and 13% of all employment in Ohio and Kentucky. residents, compared to 12.3 for the surrounding counties and 18.9 for Public sector workers in Adams County earn about 9% more per year all Ohio and Kentucky counties. This is surprising given the needs of on average than do private sector employees. Adams County’s poverty-challenged population and its state parks and forests. At the other end of the spectrum, Adams had 854 self-employed persons in 2012, a high rate compared to its neighbors and On the other hand, Adams County has a fairly large contingent of Ohio/Kentucky as a whole. Self-employed persons account for 17% of Local Government workers with 1,448 in 2012. This works out to 53.4 the private workforce in Adams County, compared to 11% in per 1000 residents, considerably higher than the same ratio for the six adjacent counties and 6% for all of Ohio and Kentucky. As previously neighboring counties (43.5) as well as for Ohio and Kentucky, in general mentioned, about 220 self-employed contractors work at the GE (41.4). Some of this disparity is due to Adams’ small, scattered Peebles Test Facility. While Census data does not reveal which population which prevents economies of scale in certain areas. Its town industries the self-employed work in, it is likely that the high number of population is spread among five roughly equal size small villages, such persons in Adams County include the self-reliant Amish duplicating many functions versus the more common pattern where population as well as agriculture, construction, and wood industry there is a large county seat surrounded by smaller villages. (On average, workers, in general. the 88 county seats in Ohio account for 37% of their respective total county populations; in Adams County, West Union accounts for only Agriculture and Forestry 12% of the population). NAISC Code 11 Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting employs Local Government workers in Adams County earn $32,911 a year on 1,239 residents of Adams County, more than any of the sectors tracked average, 4% less than their counterparts in the six adjacent counties by County Business Patterns, presented above (although not all of ($34,304) and 18% less than the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark ($40,203). these persons work in Adams County). Soybeans, corn, milk, and cattle comprise 81% of Adams County’s agricultural gross receipts. Relative Overall, Adams County spends $1,696 per capita on Local Government to other Ohio counties, Adams is best-known for its beef and poultry wages, compared to $1,492 per capita in contiguous counties and livestock, for its hay and tobacco crops, and for its horse farms, $1,661 per capita for all counties in Ohio and Kentucky. This represents according to a 2013 agricultural economics study. a burden of 9.3% of per capita income in Adams County, compared to Many of Adams County’s longstanding, multi-generational farming 7.8% in the surrounding counties, and 6.6% for all Ohio/Kentucky families are Amish. This counteracts a national trend of so many counties. According to Ohio Development Services, Adams County younger men opting out of farming that the median age of farmers is trimmed its Local Government workforce by 6.6% (about 100 jobs) now 58, according to the USDA. between 2006 and 2011.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

A typical farm in Adams County had 128 acres with $28,800 in Also of note, are Hanson Aggregates, which operates a substantial product receipts in 2012, compared to the typical Ohio farm that is limestone mining facility near Peebles, and Goodseed Nursery, near 185 acres with $133,400 in product receipts. Yield per acre of Winchester, which serves a niche in organic gardening and unusual farmland is only $225 in Adams County, compared to $720 statewide. perennials. Furthermore, there has been only 2% real economic growth (i. e. taking out inflation) in agricultural receipts in Adams County over the past ten years.

As a result, Adams is losing 2,500 acres (1.5) of farmland a year as farming becomes more and more difficult economically, especially for the smaller operators among the County’s 1,370 farms.

Subsistence farming was the primary use of land in Adams County in the 1800’s to the point that less than 14% of its land was forested as timber was cleared for cattle, hogs, sheep, and crops. Changes in land use policy, abandonment of farms, and the migration of people into urban cities led to reforestation of Adams County in the 20th century.

Today, less than half of rural land area in Adams County (44%) is considered to be viable farmland while 56% is considered to be forestland, not suitable for agricultural purposes due to topography and soil conditions. The topography of the rolling pastures in the northern and western portions of the county is suitable for large-lot farming. The hilly terrain in the southern and eastern portions is better suited for logging, small-scale farming, and recreational weekend cabins.

Forestry and logging is a $10 million a year business that employs 94 persons in Adams County. There are 195,000 acres of privately-owned forestland in Adams, including yellow poplar, white oaks, red oaks, hickory, soft maple, and other native tree species. Small sawmill operations are vanishing in the face of competition from larger, more efficient automated mills. The ones that remain in Adams County make railroad ties and rough-sawn boards and supply wood for furniture.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Major Employers

Top 10 Employers Adams County 2014

Name of Business Industry Sector # Employees Location

1. Dayton Power & Light Utility 512 Manchester 2. Adams County/Ohio Valley Schools Local Government 468 West Union 3. General Electric/Peebles Test Facility Manufacturing 305 Peebles 4. Adams County Local Government 304 West Union 5. Adams County Regional Medical Center Healthcare/Social Services 284 Seaman 6. Wal-Mart Retail 240 West Union 7. Adams-Brown Economic Opportunities Healthcare/Social Services 119 Winchester 8. Columbus Industries Manufacturing 117 West Union 9. McDonalds Accommodations/Foodservice 115 West Union 10. Adams County Manor Healthcare/Social Services 106 West Union SUBTOTAL 2,570

SOURCE: Adams County Economic Development

Dayton Power & Light (DP&L), with a Manchester mailing address/zip The next largest employer in Adams County is the Adams County/Ohio code, is listed as Adams County’s largest employer with 512 employees Valley School District with 468 employees. Adams County’s other on the Adams County website. It is the fourth largest investor-owned local school district in Manchester with 104 employees is the County’s Utility provider in Ohio with 573,000 customers (12% Ohio market 11th largest employer. It is common for school districts to be listed share). Its plants in Adams County are co-owned by DP&L, AEP, and among the largest employers for most counties in Ohio and Kentucky. Duke Energy at Stuart Station and by DP&L and Duke Energy at Killeen Station.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

The GE Peebles Test facility is the third largest employer with 305 fever. Just 2 years earlier, it had reached a low of 7.6% in 2007. The employees, just edging out the Adams County government with 304 recession hit Adams County and surrounding counties harder than it employees. did the rest of the state.

The ten largest employers in Adams County have a total of 2,570 The good news is that the unemployment rate is back down to 7.1%, employees, or 37.5% (3 of 8) of all jobs, including private sector paid as of April 2015, half of what it was five years ago. Adams still has the employees, the self-employed, and public sector workers. state’s 4th highest unemployment rate, though.

Unemployment and Poverty Unfortunately, Pike County is facing more severe job losses as Fluor- B&W Portsmouth, the government contractor in charge of a former Unemployment Rate Trends nuclear facility in Pike County, announced plans to cut 500 full-time jobs and 170 independent contractors because of funding issues with the U.S. Department of Energy. It was funding the clean-up though the sales of uranium. USEC built its American Centrifuge uranium Brown, Highland, Adams Pike, Scioto Ohio enrichment plant nearby, involving 250 employees and independent County Counties Combined contractors. Both projects are tied to the price of uranium. There is a global glut of uranium and natural gas is seen by many as an abundant cheaper, safer alternative. Use of nuclear energy dropped off after the

April 2015 7.1% 6.6% 4.6% failure of three reactors at Fukushima, Japan due to a tsunami in 2011. The Department of Energy is re-assessing whether to continue to 2013 11.4% 10.3% 7.4% spend money to enrich uranium. Layoffs in Pike County will impact 2011 12.4% 10.2% 8.7% the job market in Adams County.

2009 14.3% 13.3% 10.2% Looking at just the unemployment rate can be deceptive, warn 2007 7.6% 7.0% 5.6% economists. One reason is that many discouraged workers stopped looking for work during the recession. At one point, there were an 2005 8.2% 7.6% 5.9% estimated six persons looking for every job available. It has already 2003 9.7% 7.9% 5.5% been documented that Adams County has a below-average rate of labor force participation, particularly for females. Many in Adams County have chosen self-employment, where some folks may count as SOURCE: Boulevard Strategies employed but in fact are struggling to bring in enough work to survive.

Unemployment reached 14.3% in 2009 in Adams County, 9th highest Another factor is underemployment. One form of underemployment among Ohio’s 88 counties, when the recession had broken into a full includes workers who would like to work full-time but are restricted by

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

their employers to part-time hours, often to avoid paying for benefits Adams County has the highest percentage (50%) of persons living in (this is especially prevalent in retail and foodservice jobs). It has been low–to-moderate income (LMI) households of any county in the state documented at the national level that most of the job gains since the of Ohio as of year-end 2014, according to Ohio Development Services recovery began have been part-time jobs. Agency. The statewide average is 34% of population that are poor or near-poor (i.e. between 100% and 200% of the poverty level. Adams County is one of 13 rural counties in Ohio to be designated as a Labor Surplus Area (contiguous counties Highland, Pike, and Scioto are also on the list). This means that they will be given preference in bidding on federal procurement contracts.

Looking forward, Jobs Ohio Network predicts that the majority of new jobs in southern Ohio will be created in the healthcare and education fields (“meds and eds”) over the next ten years, but there will also be job gains in foodservice, big box retailing, vehicle dealerships, construction, and wood products manufacturing (i.e., jobs that generally do not require college). Workers at employment agencies will be needed to help others find suitable employees and jobs.

23.1% of Adams County residents were living beneath the poverty level in 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the third highest rate in Ohio (only its neighbors Pike and Scioto County had higher poverty rates). This compares to 21.7 % for adjacent counties and to the Ohio/Kentucky benchmark of 16.2%.

Over one-third of Adams County’s children live in poverty (33.7% vs. 23.9% statewide) according to Kidscount.org data. 57% of Adams County children are eligible for free or reduced price lunches at school vs. 45% statewide.

In 2000, Adams County had about 4,700 persons living beneath the poverty line, or about 17% of its population. By 2012, this number grew by 38% to 6,500 persons, including 2,250 children, living under the poverty line.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

4. Retail Market Analysis

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

4. Retail Market Analysis

Boulevard Strategies has developed a proprietary model that predicts 1. Convenience Goods and Services: Includes Grocery, the annual dollar amount a given population anywhere in the United Household Supplies, Pharmacy, Health and Beauty Aids, States will spend on non-autom0tive retail goods and services based Retail Services (dry cleaners, hair salons, copy/print shops. on its size, demographic composition, and disposable income. It is etc.), Cards/Flowers/Gifts, and Limited Service Restaurants based on detailed tables published by the U.S. Department of Labor after it compiles the results of its Consumer Expenditure Survey of 2. Home Goods: Includes Home Furnishings, Home 14,000 randomly-selected households each quarter. The Retail Décor/Art, Kitchen/Bath Goods, Linens, Home Spending Patterns model analyzes predicted spending in the Improvement/Hardware/Paint, Lawn & Garden, following 5 Major Retail Merchandise Groups: Automotive Supplies, Office Supplies

3. Fashion Goods: Includes Women’s Clothing, Men’s Clothing, Children’s Clothing, Footwear, Athletic Wear/Shoes, Specialty Fashion, Fashion Eyewear, Jewelry, Cosmetics

4. Leisure Goods: Consumer Electronics, Sporting Goods, Toys/Hobby/Games, Entertainment Media, Pet Goods, Fabrics/Crafts, Luggage/Travel Goods, Miscellaneous

5. Dining and Entertainment: Full Service Restaurants, Bars/Night Clubs, Coffee/Desserts, Bowling Alleys, Game Arcades, Movie Cinemas

The chart on the next page shows Retail Spending Patterns results for Adams County.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Retail Spending Patterns by Major Merchandise Group

Adams County Adams vs. % to Spending OH/KY % to Major Merchandise Group Est. Spending OH/KY Total Spending Total (Millions/Year) Benchmark

Convenience Goods & Services $110M 55.60 46.40 1.20

Home Goods $32M 16.20 17.00 0.95 Fashion Goods $24M 12.10 13.60 0.89 Leisure Goods $19M 9.60 12.30 0.78 Dining & Entertainment $13M 6.50 10.70 0.61 All Non-Automotive Retail Spending $198M 100.00 100.00 1.00

SOURCE: Boulevard Strategies

Adams County residents collectively spent approximately $198 County’s demographic profile suggests that its residents spend only million on the purchase of non-automotive retail goods and services in 60% as much as the typical Ohio/Kentucky household on Leisure Goods 2013. The majority of Adams County’s retail dollars are spent on and 45% as much on Dining & Entertainment per household. Convenience Goods & Services, i.e., everyday basic needs. It spends $110 million on Convenience Goods & Services, 55.6% of all retail In spite of weak overall retail demand, especially outside of spending, compared to 46.4% for the typical household in Ohio and Convenience Goods & Services, there are several categories for which Kentucky. It spends over $10,000 per household per year on there is a relatively sizable local market. These include grocery, Convenience Goods & Services, 85% of what a typical Ohio/Kentucky pharmacy, fast food, D-I-Y home improvement and auto supplies, household spends, in spite of having per capita income that is only 72% children’s clothing and shoes, sporting goods, and of the Ohio/Kentucky average. High numbers of children drive up toys/hobby/games. grocery, pharmacy, and fast food spending while a large contingent of seniors add to spending on pharmacy and cards/flowers/gifts The chart on the next page compares estimated retail spending categories. (demand) to estimated retail sales (supply) for the 5 Major Merchandise Groups and overall nonautomotive retail for Adams County in 2013. It Relatively high spending on Convenience Goods & Services crowds out also identifies how much is spent by Adams County residents outside of spending by Adams County residents in the other 4 Major Merchandise Adams County (outflow) and how much those living outside of Adams Groups. Lack of discretionary income especially hampers spending in County, including residents of contiguous counties, and tourists and the Leisure Goods and Dining & Entertainment categories. Adams visitors, spent in Adams County (inflow) on retail goods and services.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Retail Inflow/Outflow Patterns by Major Merchandise Group

Adams County % Outflow Adams Adams County Est. Est. Sales to Gross Annual Est. Inflow Spending to County Total % to Sales Adams/Inflow Major Merchandise Group Spending Adams County Outflow Spending Overall Sales Total Split (Millions/Year) Residents (Millions/Year) (Millions/Year) Spending (Millions/Year) (Millions/Year)

Convenience Goods & Services $110M $81M $29M 26 $15M $96M 66.20 84/16

Home Goods $32M $21M $11M 34 $4M $24M 16.50 88/12

Fashion Goods $24M $5M $19M 79 $5M 3.50 95/5

Leisure Goods $19M $10M $9M 47 $1M $11M 7.60 91/9

Dining & Entertainment $13M $6M $7M 54 $3M $9M 6.20 56/44

All Non-Automotive Retail $198M $123M $75M 38 $23M $145M 100.00 84/16 Spending

SOURCE: Boulevard Strategies

Adams County residents spend about 38% of their retail dollars regional mall in suburban Cincinnati. Adams County generally does not inside of Adams County. However, this percentage varies widely by have great demographics for sit-down restaurants but collectively its Major Merchandise Group. As expected, the category that Adams households spend $13 million per year on Dining & Entertainment County households shop their own county for most is Convenience categories. Adams County has about 3,500 households that earn at Goods and Services at 74%, or $81 million out of $110 million spent. least $50,000 per year, collectively spending about $9 million a year Home Goods retailers in Adams County capture an estimated 66% of on Dining & Entertainment. They spend at restaurants and other local spending; they are particularly strong on hardware and home venues year-around, not just on special occasions as many lower- improvement categories). Local retailers capture about half of Adams income households do. County residents’ spending on Leisure Goods categories. Note that Walmart, with an estimated 35% to 40% across the board share of local Adams County will probably always have a high percentage of outflow retail spending dominates many Convenience, Home, and Leisure spending in most categories for several reasons. As mentioned above, categories. its population and per capita income do not generate enough spending power to support a lot of retail formats commonly found in larger The highest shares of outflow spending occur in the Fashion Goods markets, such as regional malls, category killer big boxes, and casual (79%) and Dining & Entertainment (54%) groups. Adams County dining chains. Its high number of residents who travel outside of the does not have enough population to support a fashion mall so residents county to work also impacts shopping patterns. Many will eat fast food generally either shop at Walmart (especially for kids) or travel to a or stop at a restaurant or diner for breakfast or lunch near where they

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

work and others may stop for groceries and other items before driving There is a significant market-based opportunity for more Dining & home. Also, folks who live in rural areas are accustomed to driving Entertainment in Adams County to: longer distances to shop and dine than are their urban counterparts. E-

commerce continues to grow each year, impacting more and more • Capture a portion of outflow spending ($8 million/year), particularly those dollars being spent by its 3,500 retail categories, as well. These factors attach more importance to households earning $50,000 or more the role of inflow spending, particularly by tourists and visitors, to replace outflow spending by Adams County residents. • Grow the tourism market related to numerous attractions in Adams County Adams County retailers and restaurants receive about $23 million in spending each year from non-residents of Adams County, or 16% of Dining & Entertainment differs from the other 4 Major Merchandise total estimated receipts. This compares to $75 million per year in Groups in that it is not nearly so dominated by chains. Previous outflow spending, making Adams County a net retail outflow market of research by Boulevard Strategies indicates that while Ohio lost 26% of $52 million. About $15 million of this inflow spending primarily comes its small independent retail stores between 2000 and 2010, it lost only from residents of contiguous counties who may work in Adams County, 1% of its small independent restaurants and taverns over the same or may live close to its borders, may visit relatives or friends in Adams period of time. Adams County does not necessarily have to convince a County, might be passing through, or be in Adams County for a lot of restaurant chain or franchise to open in Adams County (although there different reasons and may stop to eat or to shop. This type of cross- is nothing wrong with trying to do this if the opportunity arises). border activity occurs in almost all markets and trade areas. Rather, it needs to nurture and support local entrepreneurs or perhaps young chefs working in the Cincinnati area who may have Based on Tourism Ohio information, it appears that Adams County dreamed of opening their own restaurant. With its abundance of tourists and visitors spend about $5 million a year on Convenience farms, Adams County can promote its restaurants as part of the Goods & Services categories (including groceries, beverages, paper burgeoning farm-to-table local foods movement (which includes Amish products, and fast food), another $3 million a year on Dining & establishments), to farmers, chefs, and patrons alike. Entertainment (at sit-down restaurants and taverns), and $1 million on Home Goods (primarily Amish furniture and kitchen goods and antiques). Tourists and visitors account for about one-third of the revenue for Adams County restaurants and taverns.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

5. Recreation and Tourism Potential

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

5. Recreation and Tourism Potential

Outdoor Recreation As shown to the left, Adams County boasts as many outdoors recreation assets and historic treasures as any county in Ohio, including the following:

• Ohio River Scenic Byway and Islands • Ohio Brush Creek, Adams Lake, and Mineral Springs Lake Resort • Serpent Mound State Memorial (including a museum and viewing tower), Paleo-Indian District • Birding and Heritage Trail, Buckeye Trail, Wilderness Trail, and Quilt Barn Trail with 23 stops (see map) • Brush Creek and Shawnee State Forests • Tri-Valley and Tranquility Wildlife Areas • Nature Preserves: Adams Lake Prairie, Chaparral, Davis Memorial, Johnson Ridge, Shoemaker, Whipple, Edge of Appalachia, Buzzard’s Roost Rock, Lynx Prairie, and others, Cincinnati Museum Eulett Center Nature Conservancy • Amish Region (with Keim Family Market and Miller’s Bakery & Furniture) • Cedar Trails Nudist Retreat • John T. Wilson Homestead and other Underground Railroad stops, the Cockerill Mansion, John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail, several museums, historic inns, churches, cemeteries, and covered bridges, Yester Years Home Primitive home décor shop, Main Street Antique Mall and the Malcolm car collection in Peebles, Blake’s Pharmacy with old-fashioned soda fountain in West Union, Adams County Heritage Center, Historical Society, and Genealogical Society • Adams County Fairgrounds, Grooms Glen-Dale Park, Red Barn Convention Center, Brushcreek Motorsports Complex, numerous golf courses, horse stables, hunting lodges, and campgrounds

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Adams County hosts a year-round calendar of events and festivals Deer hunting is a very popular outdoors activity in Adams County. Its including Draft Horse Field Days at Grooms Glen-Dale Park in October, 20,000 acres of public land is filled with turkey, grouse, quail, rabbit, Adams County Heritage Days in September, the County Fair and and squirrel, as well. Private land can be hunted, too, with permission Ramblin’ Relic Car Show in July, and various holiday season events and from the owner. The 4,250 acre Tranquility Wildlife Area is a parades. Note that most of these events are targeted toward locals, particularly fertile hunting ground, both in terms of number and size of not to visitors and tourists. The exceptions are the Appalachian bucks. It also offers a rifle range for target practice. Brush Creek Mountain Artisans Fest held in October in a rural setting near State Forest in northeast Adams County offers over 12,000 acres for Winchester and the Wheat Ridge Olde Thyme Herb &Fair & Harvest hunting and the Edge of Appalachia Preserve allows hunting with a Celebration (better known as “the Herb Fest”) held at the Grimestone permit on 2,300 acres of land. Other options include the Shawnee farm in Amish country, also in October. The latter event draws an State Forest, the Shawnee Wilderness Area and the Back Country estimated 25,000 visitors each year, mostly from outside of Adams Management Area. County. The Red Barn Convention Center hosts popular bluegrass, country, and gospel concerts throughout the year on State Route 32 According to information available from the U.S. Census Bureau (2011 that draw thousands of fans from beyond county borders, in addition Ohio Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, updated in to banquets, receptions, and reunions. 2014), 96% of Ohio’s hunters are males. 43% of males between ages of 14 and 75 who live in rural counties under 50,000 population (such Outdoor Enthusiasts - Hunting as Adams County) hunt on a regular basis (vs. less than 3% of similarly- aged males who live in Ohio’s largest cities). Rural residents make up Outdoors Enthusiast Demographics, Ohio 32% of Ohio’s population but 74% of its deer hunters. The number of hunters living in Ohio grew 10% from 481,000 in 2001 to 528,000 in 2011. Hunters/Fishers Bird Watchers

An estimated 4,300 Adams County residents hunt for deer each % From Urban Areas 58% 59% year. In addition, about 5,700 non-residents also travel to Adams % From Cin/Cleve/Cols 29% 41% County each season to hunt each year, bringing the total number of hunters tied to Adams County to 10,000. This includes men from % Male 82% 46% contiguous counties as well as those from the greater Median Age 46 54 Cincinnati/Dayton area and from central Ohio, particularly in the suburbs. Each will spend an average of 16 days in the woods hunting Median HH Income $42K $56K each year, although not all in Adams County. % College Grads 23% 33% Adams County’s annual deer harvest hovers around 4,000 a year. SOURCE: Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, The Outdoor Foundation and Boulevard This is below its potential given the amount of wooded land in Adams Strategies County (63% of its land area or 370 square miles). Adams County is

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

yielding 10.8 deer harvested per square mile of forestland compared to Tranquility Wildlife Area. Varieties of bass, crappie, and catfish are 13.2 for the entire state. If it was achieving the state average for deer most often found in these bodies of water. harvest per square mile of forestland, it would be closer to 5,000 kills a year. Generally speaking, Adams County males are already avid 26% of the population in Ohio’s rural areas such as Adams County fish outdoorsmen – this market has been mostly tapped. If Adams on a regular basis versus 15% in urban areas. On the other hand, County’s hunting industry is to achieve its economic potential, it will fishing has roughly 5 times the appeal to urban dwellers as hunting need to draw more visiting hunters. does, something to keep in mind when trying to promote outdoor sports to larger markets. On average, Ohio hunters spend about $1,300 a year each on food and lodging ($100), transportation ($300), equipment ($400), and Men make up 80% of the angler market. They will fish about 13 days a other costs ($500) for licenses, land leases, camping equipment, and year, on average. 26% will also hunt during the year (about 2,600 one-time big ticket items (campers, cabins, etc.). This implies that hunters/anglers for Adams County). The number of anglers living in Adams County supports a $13 million a year hunting industry, Ohio grew 3% from 1.39 million in 2001 to 1.44 million in 2011. including both local and visiting sportsmen, but it could easily be a $16 to $17 million a year business. On average, Ohio anglers spend about $600 a year each on food and lodging ($100), transportation ($100), equipment ($300), and all other Adams County has a small commercial sector that caters to the categories ($100). This implies that Adams County is a $6 to $8 hunting trade, including several outdoors outfitters, gun shops, cabin million a year market for fishing trips and equipment. and property rentals, adventure companies, and deer processing shops. Then, there is Walmart, which is the nation’s leading hunting Outdoor Enthusiasts – Wildlife Watching and fishing retailer, in terms of sales. Also, Tranquility State Wildlife Area offers a rifle range that serves both local residents and shooters Another form of traditional outdoor recreation that is popular on from outside of the county. Adams County’s nature preserves and trails is wildlife watching. This encompasses several activities and species watched. Wildlife Outdoor Enthusiasts - Fishing watching can occur both around the home and away from the home. For the purposes of this report, we are mostly concerned with the Fishing is even more widespread among Adams County residents and latter type of activities, which include observing, photographing, and visitors at several bodies of water throughout the area. Based on feeding wildlife. About 8% of all Ohioans participate in such activities, Census statistics, Adams County has about 10,000 local anglers and including 9% of urban dwellers and 6% of rural residents. 74% of another 5,000 visiting fishermen for a total of 15,000 anglers a year participants are primarily bird-watchers. Gender-wise, it is a 50/50 casting lines into Adams County’s rivers, creeks, streams, lakes, and split with a skew toward older, middle class, well-educated empty ponds. Popular venues include the Ohio River, Ohio Brush Creek, nesters. About 9 days a year are set aside for bird-watching excursions Adams Lake (stocked with trout each spring), Winchester Lake, and for the typical birder. Unfortunately, wildlife watching away from

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

home is a declining activity with only 730,000 Ohio residents development to entice families from outside of the local area to drive participating in 2011 versus 887,000 in 2001, an 18% drop. in for a day trip.

For Adams County, we estimate that there are about 2,000 serious In addition to the Amish, Adams County is home to over thirty wildlife watchers living in Adams County that pursue activities churches. This does not include numerous historic one-room churches. beyond their own properties. Bird-watchers will spend $150 a year for Religion has always played a significant role in Adams County. trip-related expenses (food, lodging, and transportation) and $300 a year on equipment such as cameras and binoculars. Although wildlife More modern forms of outdoor recreational activities are emerging in watchers are generally more affluent than hunters and anglers, they southwest Ohio, as well. They include the following: do not spend as much money or time on their hobby. Wildlife • Boating: kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boating, power watchers, both locals and visitors, comprise about a $1 to $2 million boating a year market in Adams County. • Camping: camping with amenities, camp-outs, primitive camping • Nature-Based: nature plays, nature programs In sum, each year in Adams County, over 25,000 persons, split • Outdoor Skills: archery, geo-caching, rope courses between locals (57%) and visitors (43%), participate in the same • Swimming: spray parks, splash pads traditional outdoor activities, such as hunting, fishing, and wildlife • Trail Uses: motorized ATV trails, paved bicycle trails, running watching as did the Native Americans that lived in the region centuries trails, mountain biking trails ago. • Others: dog parks, picnic shelters, community gardens, beekeeping, disc golf, zip lines, canopy tours Amish Region Boating and Canoeing The small Wheat Ridge Amish community, with about 100 households and a dozen small businesses, nestled along narrow, hilly, winding Boating and canoeing are popular warm weather activities in Adams roads north of the county seat, also plays a role in continuing ancient County. Adams County is served by four public boat ramps along the traditions in Adams County. Horses and buggies are common sights Ohio River. Manchester and Rome villages offer free parking and boat as are shops selling baked goods, bulk foods, meats, cheeses, candles, launching (although parking is limited in Rome). Brush Creek Boat jams and jellies, wooden furniture, quilts, antiques, moccasins, horse Ramp & Campground offers camping, restrooms, ice, and bait. It saddles and shoes, wind chimes, hand tools, and building supplies. charges fees for camping and boat launching. Island Creek Marina, located 1 mile east of Manchester, offers a marina and gasoline in While charming, the Wheat Ridge Amish area does not have enough addition to camping, restrooms, and ice. Fees are charged for critical mass to draw large numbers of visitors and tourists beyond the camping and boat launching. There are five canoe launch access Herb Fest. This is an observation, not a suggestion that Wheat Ridge points along the Ohio Brush Creek. In general, these facilities are would ever want to become as crowded and over-commercialized as minimal and dated, especially compared to those in other riverfront the Berlin area. But it does not have enough Amish-related counties.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Boat Registrations by County, 2014 As shown in the chart to the left, Adams County residents had 1,127 boats registered in 2014. This represents a 16% increase above 2014 2014 Boats Change Counties (From East to West) Registered Per 1,000 2010, which was the highest percentage increase in any Ohio county from 2010 Boats Population along the Ohio River and the third highest percentage increase in the entire state (behind Ross and Holmes) between 2010 and 2014.

Clermont 9,701 +13% 48 Boating is an outdoor activity that is quietly gaining momentum in Brown 2,538 +3% 57 Adams County. It is not promoted much in local tourism literature compared to other attractions such as Amish land, hunting, and nature Adams 1,127 +16% 40 trails and preserves. Scioto 3,170 +3% 41 Lawrence 2,903 +11% 47 Ohio and Kentucky average 3,500 boats per marina. Adams County Gallia 1,483 +15% 48 does not have enough boaters to support a full-service marina without drawing boaters from other counties to the east, north, and south. Meigs 1,327 +8% 56 Athens 2,773 +10% 43 Washington 4,119 +13% 67

Monroe 894 +2% 61

Belmont 3,436 +10% 49 Jefferson 2,580 +5% 38 Columbiana 5,239 +15% 49

Subtotal, All Ohio River Rural 41,290 +10% 49 Counties State of Ohio 445,725 +6% 39

Sources: Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Boulevard Strategies

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

Top 10 Boating Activities

Top 5 Boat Types, Ohio Top 10 Boating Activities

1. Motor Boats (26'-40') 1. Fishing From Boat 6. Sunbathing

2. Canoes/Kayaks 2. Cruising 7. Waterskiing

3. Motor Boats (16'-40') 3. Entertaining/Socializing 8. Tubing

4. Personal Watercraft 4. Nature Observation 9. Quiet Water Paddling

5. Motor Boats (>40') 5. Sightseeing 10. Wakeboarding

Sources: Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Boulevard Strategies

As shown in the chart above, boating is a multi-faceted activity and Thomas where numerous boating facilities are located). Marinas one in which all ages can participate. offer boaters a place to rest and re-fuel their vessels and themselves. They serve as a gateway into an area’s inland natural attractions. Few Adams County has potential to host a lot more boating activity. Ohio River boats are stopping ashore in Adams County other than It has only 40 registered boats per 1000 residents, the second lowest those operated by folks who live in Adams County. among the rural Ohio River counties. The Ohio River rural county average is 49 boats per 1000 residents. Adams County is about 250 An ODNR study, Boating on Ohio Waterways Plan, has identified many boat registrations shy of what would be minimally expected for a needs in southern Ohio related to boating, including better access via county blessed with so many high quality, unpolluted water venues. launch ramps, and more tie-up and transient facilities. Desirable locations for more boating facilities will ideally have suitable draft for Adjacent to Adams County is Brown County with 57 boats per 1000 vessels, back-to-nature surroundings, nearby restaurants/taverns and residents. Its boating industry is centered around the Village of Ripley, convenience stores, restrooms/showers, picnic areas, overnight (population 1,750, slightly smaller than Manchester) with four marinas, mooring/berths, short-term rental docks, and land-based including the Ripley Boat Club, and a beautifully restored downtown transportation available. with restaurants and historic attractions.

According to the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission, there are a total of 32 marinas along the Ohio River in Ohio and 7 more across the river in Kentucky (not counting Cincinnati/Covington/Ft.

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Paddle Sports Participation Canoeing and kayaking are boating’s up-and-coming younger cousins. About 5.1% of the population (over 5 years old) in the Estimated 2012 Estimated Midwest participates in canoeing on a regular basis while 3.4% No. of Paddle Participation Median No. of pursue kayaking, according to The Outdoors Foundation. This Adams Sport Rate, 6+ Age Annual County works out to about 1,300 canoeists and 900 kayakers who live in Population* Outings Participants Adams County, including some residents who both canoe and kayak. Based on statewide totals, it is estimated that Adams Canoeing 5.1% 29 1,300 10,400 County has well over 300 registered canoes and kayaks, including liveries. It is estimated that 133 Adams County residents will Kayaking 3.4% 32 900 7,200 participate in paddle sports activity, each day, on average, May through September. Rafting 1.3% 33 350 1,750 Paddle sports participants tend to be much younger and more Stand-Up 0.4% 29 100 600 Padding athletically inclined than boaters. Most participants are under 40 with a strong skew toward teens and those in their twenties. * East North Central Region of USA (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin) Paddlers like to take up various fitness-oriented activities (walking, running, jogging, hiking, bicycling, treadmill training, lifting weights, and stretching or yoga exercise) in addition to traditional Those Who Participate in Paddle Sports Also Participate in These outdoor sports like camping and fishing. Activities:

1. Walking/Fitness 56% 6. Bowling 37%

2. Running/Jogging 41% 7. Bicycling 36%

8. Treadmill 3. Hiking 41% 30% Running

4. Camping 39% 9. Weight Living 28%

5. Fishing 38% 10. Stretching/Yoga 27%

Sources: Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Boulevard Strategies

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Canoe/Kayak Registrations, Ohio, 2004-2013 boats for every registered canoe/kayak; by 2014, there were only 3.3 boats for every canoe/kayak. % Change No. of Year Vs. Previous Registrations Stand-up paddling is an emerging trend, with only a 0.4% Year participation rate in 2012, but growing at a rate of 17% a year. We

2004 59,991 - estimate Adams County has about 100 paddle boarders, based on statewide statistics. Rafting is a niche activity in the Midwest with 2005 63,721 6.2% only a 1.3% participation rate. Unlike stand-up paddling, rafting 2006 67,880 6.5% appears to be peaking out in popularity. 2007 75,801 11.7% Camping 2008 80,604 6.3%

2009 88,441 9.7% Camping is a popular activity in Adams County. Campsite facilities 2010 96,134 8.7% can be found at Brush Creek Campground, Cedar Trails Retreat, Hickory Valley Raceway Park & Campgrounds, Island Creek Marina & 2011 103,989 8.2% Campground, Mineral Springs Lake Resort, Sandy Springs 2012 114,401 10.0% Campground, and Woodland Alters, to name a few. Adams County has 2013 126,504 10.6% 530 campsites capable of sleeping 1,060 persons a night. Horseback riding can be enjoyed at Quiverheart Farms, Runway Stables, Cedar CAGR 2004-2013 7.6% Brook Farms, and Shawnee State Park. CAGR, Boat Registrations, 2004-2013 1.6%

CAGR Population, Age 6+, 2004-2013 0.1% Golf

Sources: Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Boulevard Strategies There are two golf courses in Adams County – Hilltop Golf Course and Adams County Country Club, or one for every 14,000 residents. The The chart above demonstrates the high rate of growth associated statewide average is one golf course for every 12,800 residents. with canoeing and kayaking in the State of Ohio since 2004. Adams County would need significant tourist/visitor support to add another golf course (but, its hilly terrain could host a scenic and Registrations grew at a rate of 7.6% (compounded) a year between challenging course). Most golf is played within 15 minutes of the 2004 and 2013. The pace of growth in canoes and kayaks has actually golfer’s residence, according to ODNR statistics. Thus, it would take a picked up since 2009. This is an astounding percentage, considering spectacular venue to attract visitors. that such a popular activity as boating is experiencing a 1.6% per year growth rate in registered boats. In 2004, there were 6.6 registered

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Soccer

Soccer fields and other outdoor sports fields are primarily limited to sites in southern Ohio draw half of their participants from a 45-minute those found on the properties of Adams County’s six public schools. radius, meaning that many visitors will drive an hour or more to ski Other Outdoor Activities and/or snowboard.

Other high growth outdoors activities include adventure racing, Outdoor activities on the decline include lake swimming (especially triathlons, bicycling, rock climbing, snowshoeing, free-style and cross with pollution problems for many of Ohio’s lakes, including ), country skiing, backpacking, skateboarding, and trail running. Note lap pools, sand volleyball, and tennis. that Adams County basically shuts down in the winter in terms of outdoor activities with limited winter sports activities/venues, in spite of its hilly terrain and increasingly snowy winters. Winter sports

Activity Gaps Activity/Motivational Relationships

SOURCE: Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, The Outdoor Foundation and Boulevard Strategies

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The matrix on the previous page charts various activities along two dining and entertainment establishments was documented in the axes: whether an activity is exciting (like kayaking) or relaxing (like previous chapter on retail and the section on culinary tourism. fishing) and whether it is something that is primarily an individual effort (such as long-distance running) or a group activity (such as Outdoor Recreation Travel Time attending festivals and events). The red X’s denote outdoor activities that Adams County has covered. The yellow diamonds indicate activities that, in our opinion, appear to be lacking, missing or could be expanded in Adams County. They include off-road motorcycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, zip-line canopy tours, 4-wheeling, and paint ball.

Tourism

Tourism is an activity that impacts many sectors, including lodging (100% of jobs), recreation (52% of jobs), food and beverage (34% of jobs), retail (7% of jobs), gasoline stations, real estate, passenger transportation, including taxis and rentals, travel agents, and others. According to state economic development officials, Adams County generates over $30 million in local revenues as a result of direct visitor spending per year. Visitor spending surged in Adams County by 10% in SOURCE: Tourism Economics, The Economic Impact of Tourism in Ohio, Recreational Boating 2013 after experiencing a flat 2012, according to Tourism Economics. Statistical Abstract, American Sportfishing Association and Boulevard Strategies This level of inconsistency from year to year over the past ten years is problematic in forecasting future visitor spending in Adams County. As shown in the map above, the typical outdoors enthusiast will travel, on average, 37 minutes to go to a place to pursue their favorite While impressive, Adams County generates only 46% in tourism dollars activity. For Adams County, this includes the contiguous counties per resident as the state-wide average. Tourism supports 8.1% of all previously mentioned. About 30% will drive up to 2 hours. For Adams employment in Adams County (475 jobs), compared to 8.7% statewide. County, this includes large markets such as Cincinnati, Columbus, Appalachian Ohio counties with much higher tourism spending per Louisville, Dayton, and Lexington. Hunters in southwest Ohio will drive resident than Adams County include Belmont, Guernsey, Highland, 76 miles on average, boaters 66 miles on average, campers 63 miles on Ross, and Scioto Counties. While Adams County has abundant unique, average, and anglers 26 miles on average. Wildlife observers in interesting natural attractions (arguably more than any of the southwest Ohio travel only 13 miles on average to participate in their aforementioned counties), it is sorely lacking in tourist amenities hobbies. For perspective, Adams runs about 22 miles east to west and needed to support a higher level of activity. The lack of retail shops and anywhere from 20 to 31 miles from its northern border to the Ohio River.

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Top 10 Activities Tied to Overnight Trips in Ohio Length of Stay

1 Hiking

2 Birding or Wildlife Watching

3 Fishing

4 Beach Visit/Lake Swimming

5 Outdoor Event (Festival, Reenactment, etc.)

6 Reunion/Wedding/Outdoor Gathering

7 Hunting

8 Paddling/Non-Motorized Boating

9 Mountain Biking 10 Horseback Riding SOURCE: Tourism Economics, The Economic Impact of Tourism in Ohio, Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, American Sportfishing Association and Boulevard Strategies Source: ODNR, Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) 2013 The exhibit to the left shows the ten activities most often tied to Overnight Amenities overnight trips in Ohio. All of these activities take place to some extent in Adams County. While campgrounds are the most popular Top 5 Amenities Where Outdoor Recreation Overnighters Sleep option for outdoors sports participants, many will opt for other alternatives, such as hotels, rented cabins, vacation homes, and lodges, if not staying with family or friends. 75% will spend at least 2 1. Campground With Own Equipment nights on their trip. Those Ohioans who take overnight trips will spend 3 times as much per visit than day visitors, according to Tourism 2. Hotel Economics.

3. Family or Friends Adams County has limited conference facilities available at the Hope 4. Rented Cabin or Vacation Rental Springs Institute, Red Barn Convention Center, and River Barn.

5. Lodge

Source: ODNR, Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) 2013

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Lodging Overview

Adams Ohio Properties Sites/Rooms Sleeps County

No. of Properties 4 1,663 Cabins/Cottages 13 25 116 No. of Rooms 83 154,912 Bed & Breakfasts 5 25 70 Rooms Per Property 21 93 Retreats 1 1 30 Avg. Daily Room Rate $75 $110 RV/Campgrounds 7 530 1,060

Revenue Per Available Room (Per PAR) $47 $69 Total 26 581 1,276 Rooms/1,000 Residents 0.3 1.3

Rooms/1,000 Workers 1.2 2.9

SOURCE: The Economic Impact of Tourism in Ohio, ODNR, Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) 2013, and Boulevard Strategies

Adams County has a major deficiency in both quantity and quality of overwhelming market support for at least one family-oriented, mid- hotel rooms. It has only four hotels/motels with a total of 83 rooms. priced hotel in the market (such as Best Western, Red Roof Inn, Hotels in the state of Ohio have 93 rooms apiece, on average. Rooms Fairfield Inn, or Staybridge). A suites concept would appeal to those rent for $75 a night, on average, 32% below the state average. This is who would like to cook their own meals (or at least, breakfast). If one reflection of the below-average condition of the older, no frills does well, others will be sure to follow. Recruitment of a brand name properties. Comfort Inn is generally the best hotel in the market. flag has to be a top tourism/economic development priority for Adams County. Counties contiguous to Adams have multiple hotel chain locations. Staybridge Suites has a property in just about every county in Adams County offers several high-end lodging options in the way of southern Ohio, including Vinton County, except Adams County. beds and breakfasts, including Murphin Ridge Inn & Cabins (Murphin Brown County, to the west, has a total of nine chain hotels, including Ridge Inn is an historic 1826 fine dining house). Adams County’s five Best Western, Red Roof Inn, Days Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and beds and breakfasts have a total of 25 rooms capable of sleeping up to Homewood Suites. Scioto County, to the east, has five chain hotels, 70 guests per night. There are 14 properties in Adams that offer a total including two Holiday Inn properties. of 26 cabins and retreats capable of sleeping up to 146 persons.

Our analysis suggests that Adams County could support up to another 280 rooms, or 3 more average-size hotels. There appears to be

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Overall, only an estimated 25% of Adams County overnight visitors sleep with a roof over their heads in warm weather months. The rest currently camp out. Better amenities will attract more visitors with more money to spend.

In terms of employment, there were only 28 paid accommodations workers in Adams County, or 1 per 1000 residents. The State of Ohio has 1 accommodations worker for every 325 residents. Adams County had 10 fewer accommodations workers in 2013 than it did in 2003. These are trends in the wrong direction for a place that considers tourism to be a key economic development strategy.

Aside from the aforementioned Murphin Ridge Inn, the Moyer Winery and Restaurant is the only other fine dining establishment in the entire county. Then, it drops off rather steeply to Frisch’s and a number of family diner/Amish options and then to fast food, ice cream, and pizza. There are no casual dining alternatives nor are there any fast casual places for Millenials. Again, Adams County has about 3,500 households that could afford to dine out at least once a month if there were suitable options plus an estimated 40,000 overnight visitors per year. Adams County could support at least 3 more casual or fine dining restaurants, in our estimation, or over 300 more seats. For instance, a good steakhouse serving local beef would be an appealing option for local diners as well as visiting outdoorsmen (see The Bear’s Den outside of Cambridge in Guernsey County, where beef and other menu items are raised on the adjoining farm, for example).

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6. Economic Development Priorities

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6. Economic Development Priorities

Based on the research and analysis presented in this report as well as feedback at stakeholder meetings, Boulevard Strategies proposes three sets of overall economic development priorities for Adams County as it moves forward, as follows:

1. Quality of Life Improvements 2. Job Retention & Creation 3. Tourism Drivers

1. Quality of Life Improvements

Quality of life improvements, in and of themselves, will do more b. Education and Workforce Training than bring additional jobs to Adams County. They will most importantly address priority factors that are needed to create an • Continue to work with Southern State Community environment that is business-friendly in Adams County, including College to offer accessible, affordable, high quality the following: education programming at a in Adams County. Career training in engineering and a. Infrastructure Improvements food and hospitality as well as short-term training in entrepreneurship, truck driving, basic computer • Concentrate infrastructure improvements, skills, lineman training, and other programs have including water/sewer, three-phase electric, and been proposed. Adult literacy and GED programs broadband Internet access, along U.S. Route 32 would also be offered. corridor. Improve north-south connectors throughout County. • MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) represent an emerging method of distance learning as • Establish countywide building and plumbing codes. universities, education non-profits, and venture capitalists join the stampede to offer more and • Maintain key roads for residents and businesses more online classes. alike.

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• Support partnerships between employers and high • Provide more options in the villages for seniors school students to provide vocational training to seeking new housing within walking distance of those not on the college prep track. Continue to amenities. Form a cooperative arrangement for support the Ohio Valley Career and Technical seniors able to age in place with transportation, Center for adult education and workforce training. home maintenance, meal and prescription delivery services to help them stay in their homes. • Take greater advantage of federal workforce training grants. Adams County currently receives • Discourage further proliferation of trailer parks. $5 million per year in federal workforce training More zoning standards are needed. grants, or $178 per capita. This falls far short of the $290 per capita for all Ohioans in spite of Adams’ d. Doctor and Nurse Recruitment chronically high unemployment rates and low levels of education. Adams County would need to • Work closely with Adams County Regional Medical be receiving at least $8 million a year in federal Center in formulating and implementing strategies workforce training grants to reach the state-wide to recruit and retain medical services providers. average. Survey hospital employees to uncover unmet needs. c. Introduction of New Housing • Contact Shane Ford, MA, Recruitment/Retention • Encourage development of single-family housing Coordinator, Primary Care Office at the Ohio units starting at $150,000, particularly in Seaman Department of Health to learn more about the and Peebles where large employers are located, to Ohio Physician Loan Repayment Program, how replace older, obsolete homes. Adams County physicians can take advantage of the program, and how to use the program to recruit • Encourage development of condominium newly graduated medical professionals. communities with golf courses, nature trails, and pet-friendly amenities in the townships to appeal to • Likewise, contact NEALP Program Manager Lisa empty-nester couples looking to downsize and Reed to find out how to spread the word about its eventually retire. program for prospective nurses in Adams County.

• Encourage development of market rate • Contacts should be made to the federal programs apartments in West Union and other villages. described in Chapter 3 of this report (NHSC Loan Today’s renters are tomorrow’s homeowners. Repayment Program and the Federal PSLF Program) to find out more about the programs.

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• Encourage local high school students to prepare a introduction for a cold-call e-mail and a direct mail career in healthcare. Emphasize scientific collateral program. Approach Cincinnati-based education in the local schools. Kroger, in particular, to provide competition in the Grocery and Pharmacy categories. Attend e. Greater Availability of Convenience Retail Goods and Ohio/West Virginia International Council of Services Shopping Centers (ICSC) Idea Exchange held in Columbus each August to meet chain retailers and • This includes the Grocery, Pharmacy, Retail restaurants with expansion plans. Services, Cards/Gifts/Flowers and Fast Food/Fast Casual categories. Note that the Grocery, • Work with small independent retail and restaurant Pharmacy, and Fast Food/Fast Casual lines of trade businesses in each of the villages in Adams County are dominated by chain activity while Retail to foster merchant cooperation, mentoring, and Services and Cards/Gifts/Flowers categories joint promotions and events. Bring in speakers to generally draw smaller independent shops. talk about relevant topics such as e-commerce and how to compete with chains. Provide retail owner • Establish a Retail Development Committee workforce training and technical assistance consisting of commercial property owners and programs. developers, leasing agents and commercial realtors, key merchants, and local economic development officials to pool recruitment efforts for the County. Keep in mind that sales and use taxes are a primary source of funding for the Adams County government and that Adams residents leaving the county to shop and dine represent over $1 million a year in lost tax revenues for Adams County.

• Contact successful retailers in the greater Cincinnati area as well as in other Appalachian Ohio communities. Develop marketing materials that use the statistics from this report to demonstrate the significant supply-side opportunity for savvy retailers and restauranteurs to be successful in underserved Adams County. Craft a letter of

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2. Job Retention & Creation

Job retention is sometimes overlooked among economic shown in the chart on the next page, Adams County is development professionals eager to land new employers but on a pace to lose 161 private sector jobs between keeping the employers already in Adams County happy, especially 2012 and 2020, based on extrapolation of past trends. the large ones, is every bit as important as bringing in new jobs, Employment is declining in the Manufacturing, Retail particularly in the shrinking economy that has plagued Adams Trade, Accommodations/Foodservice, and Financial County for at least the past ten years. Services sectors.

New job creation will most likely be driven by development and • As previously shown (in Chapter 3 Economic Profile), expansion of Adams County’s small businesses and through the average number of employees per increased entrepreneurship. establishment for Adams County is below the average company size for the six contiguous Strategies to directly maximize job opportunities include: counties for every industry sector studied except Utilities and Wholesale Trade. Under the “New Path a. Retention of Major Employers to 2020” scenario, each key industry sector in Adams County is assumed to either (A) maintain the same • Staying in communication with top private sector annual rate of growth or decline as the past ten employers such as DP&L and GE Aviation is essential. years from 2012 to 2020, or (B) grow through Both have been essential stabilizing forces for the expansion at existing employers to where Adams local economy for decades and both are engaged in County’s average company size is the same as the the community. One would believe that the quality of six contiguous counties. Under the New Path life improvements (infrastructure, education, direction, Adams County could grow its private housing, healthcare, and retail/restaurant upgrades) sector employment by over 300 jobs by 2020 vs. suggested above would all go a long way in retaining 2012 levels. Adams County’s top employers in the long run. • The largest potential divergence in job swings b. Small Business Development & Expansion belongs to the Retail Trade and Accommodations & Foodservice sectors, followed by Commercial • While Adams County has done a good job in retaining Services, Financial Services, and Arts, jobs at its largest employers, its smaller to midsize Entertainment, and Recreation. These are the companies (those with less than 150 employees) have sectors that Adams County can most impact with generally struggled to survive, let alone expand. As

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Adams County Employment 2020 - Current Path vs. New Path

Adams Co. Current Path to 2020 New Path to 2020 2012

# # # Potential Industry Sector Net Change Net Change Rationale Employees Employees Employees Swing in Jobs

1. Healthcare/Social Services 1,113 1,273 160 1,273 160 A 0

2. Retail Trade 861 723 -138 901 50 B 178

3. Manufacturing 634 573 -61 573 -61 A 0

4. Utilities 581 576 -5 576 -5 A 0

5. Accommodations/Foodservice 501 381 -120 544 43 B 163

6. Financial Services 176 149 -27 189 13 B 40

7. Commercial Services 125 120 -5 167 42 B 47

8. Construction 114 133 19 146 32 B 13

9. Wholesale Trade 112 110 -2 110 -2 A 0

10. Professional Services 105 112 7 112 7 A 0

Subtotal, Top 10 Sectors 4,322 4,150 -172 4,591 269 441

Educational Services 27 44 17 44 17 A 0

Arts, Entertainment & Recreation 25 25 0 50 25 B 25

ALL SERVICES 4,443 4,285 -158 4,748 305 463

A = Maintain current and growth/decline rate B = Increase average company size to same level as 6 contiguous counties Note: Does not include self-employed persons and public sector employees *Includes Brown, Highland, and Scioto Counties in Ohio and Lewis and Mason Counties in Kentucky

SOURCES: U.S. Census Bureau and Boulevard Strategies

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its economic development efforts, particularly c. Entrepreneurship Programming through retention and expansion of existing small- to-medium size firms in each of these five sectors • As noted in Chapter 3, Adams County has an abundance (i.e., best “bang for the buck” for E.D. spending). of self-employed individuals, including 220 contractors at the GE Peebles Test Facility and numerous farmers, • Economic gardening advocates focus on “growth but relatively few true entrepreneurs attempting to from within” strategic initiatives including market start a business sustainable enough to hire employees. research and GIS data, industry trends and research, Entrepreneurs are critical to the long-term health of developing new markets, identifying potential Adams County’s economy. They are the seeds of self- competitors and unknown resources, workforce sustaining economic progress and creation of wealth training and education, and connections to lenders and jobs. and investors for key industries in a particular place. Examples might include showing how a retailer or • All companies start with an idea. Undoubtedly, commercial services provider can raise their there are a lot of folks who live or work in Adams visibility in search engine results, how a restaurant County who have ideas for start-up businesses but could set up a delivery service, how to use social do not have any idea of how to get started. One media to market arts, entertainment, and valuable service Adams County could provide to recreation venues, how a credit union might target prospective entrepreneurs is a guide on the basics a specific industry tied to its existing member base, – what paperwork and inspections are required, or how a small manufacturer could set up export what regulations are relevant, what resources and operations. Small and medium size businesses programs are available at county, state, and federal often lack the resources in-house to initiate new levels, lender contacts, realtors/property owners, strategies beyond keeping up with everyday website and graphic designers, accountants and operations. attorneys, and other professionals who can provide needed services. This guide should be available at • Adams County and the Chamber of Commerce the office of the economic development director to should lead the way in setting up industry encourage interaction with would-be roundtable discussions in each of key industry entrepreneurs. If interest runs high enough, the sectors for local companies to discuss common County could set up group meetings for those problems and issues. Then, programming can be interested in starting a business to provide support developed to address industry-specific challenges and feedback to each other’s ideas and business for Adams County businesses. plans. Guests from the financial community could be invited to talk about topics of interest.

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• Many communities throughout Ohio have re- restaurant capital investment program that purposed long vacant industrial buildings into new provides grants or low cost loans to assist with the business incubators. One of the most successful costs of vent hoods, sprinklers, grease traps, and incubators in the state is the Athens Business other leasehold improvements that often act as Incubator, operated by ACEnet (Appalachian barriers for folks interested in opening a full-service Center for Economic Networks). ACEnet provides a restaurant. Also, the County should work with free rent facility with parking, restrooms, a commercial property owners to rent out vacant centralized mail room, copier and fax machines, space to temporary retailers or “pop-up shops” Internet access, water and electricity, and two that may be open only for Halloween season, the meeting rooms (each with a kitchenette) to start-up holidays, or the summertime. The County could run ventures at a minimal fee to cover costs. Businesses a contest and select the best 3 or 4 ideas for pop-up currently occupied in the facility include those shops. These tenants would be connected with involved in wellness/massage, music, computer willing property owners using guidelines as to terms repair, sewing/seamstress, and natural, chemical- provided by the County. free cleaning products. In Columbus, the Columbus Idea Foundry houses jewelry designers, • There are numerous additional resources available blacksmiths, glass makers, hydroponic gardeners, at the state and federal level regarding custom furniture makers and other woodworkers, entrepreneurship, reflecting its importance as and various product designers, artisans, and artists public policy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, in a huge, former warehouse which it has already in particular, has effective programming targeted out-grown. Note that neither of the examples toward rural communities. For instance, Boulevard listed here are focused on information Strategies has worked with 67 independent retailers technology, as are most of Ohio’s entrepreneurial and restaurants in towns with populations of 25,000 support programs. These are approaches that could or less by providing technical assistance to business be successfully implemented in Adams County. owners on everything from inventory management and financial ratios to store design and • Other tools the County could use to encourage merchandising and social media marketing in the more entrepreneurial activity include low-interest Retail is Detail program, sponsored by the revolving loan programs for start-ups, and for U.S.D.A. The Kaufmann Foundation in Kansas City property owners, particularly in downtowns, facade is a non-profit center for entrepreneurship with a grants, historic tax credit applications, and property wealth of resources, as well. improvement tax rebates/matching funds. If Adams County wants to encourage more independent restaurant openings, it should consider funding a

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d. Recruitment of Businesses Outside of County e. Local Foods Initiatives

• This is the task that many people most closely • One of the biggest trends in economic and associate with economic development but it is the community development over the past ten years activity that generally yields less return for the has been local foods initiatives. Proponents of resources invested than retention, expansion, and local foods cite benefits such as fresher, better- entrepreneurial efforts. Economic gardening yields tasting products, lower costs, less environmental are steadier than the “hit or miss” nature of “big impact, increased food safety, better nutrition, game” hunting. There are fewer “big game” targets stronger community ties, and most importantly, the as there are fewer large factories in this country and re-circulation of dollars in the local economy the ones that remain are becoming increasingly versus sending profits to out-of-county, out-of- automated. Another issue sometimes arising when state, and foreign producers and distributors. there is heated competition among various counties Adams County, with its robust Agriculture sector, is and municipalities to land a large company, is that it well positioned to take full advantage of this trend. can turn into a tax incentive arms race, all to the benefit of the corporation being pursued. • Local foods, generally defined as food raised within Sometimes, county and city officials, desperate to a 200 mile radius, involve a wide variety of linked create local jobs, give away too much in tax enterprises in the community, including growers, abatements during negotiations. distributors, farmers/public markets, locally-owned restaurants, micro-breweries, wineries, and micro- • Small counties with limited resources, such as distilleries, artisan/Amish bakeries, dessert/ice Adams, must be opportunistic in reacting to cream shops, food cooperatives, food banks, potential deals such as when Columbus Industries community kitchens, food trucks, and meeting relocated to West Union in 2008. It must be caterers. All of these players need to be organized, prepared to pounce on opportunities as they connected and rowing in rhythm with one another present themselves but should not spend a lot of for local foods to have a visible impact in a given time chasing and cold calling prospects that have community. A community kitchen is a great way to not been vetted. help home-based food businesses to share equipment needed for larger quantities of product. • The exception to this approach is the recruitment The sprawling ACEnet Food Venture Center in of retail, restaurant, and hotel chains. Short lists Athens started as a small community kitchen years of desirable operators in each category should be ago. Another group of fruit growers in the assembled, contacted and presented with relevant Appalachian region pooled their resources to data and key findings from this report.

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operate a bottling and preservation facility, which is also open to tourists.

• Many communities throughout the state organize community gardens that bring neighbors together in warm weather months to grow and learn more about local foods. Other residents are planting backyard gardens or feeding a few chickens or even starting mini-farms.

• “Culinary tourism”, a phrase coined by The Food Channel, is spreading throughout Appalachian Ohio. Culinary tourism consists of a wide variety of endeavors including on-farm and you-pick-‘em experiences; food and wine festivals (such as the Paw Paw festival in Athens each fall); themed tours, packages, and trails: grower-restaurant partnerships; agricultural fairs; farmers markets and roadside stands; special dinners with local foods, beverages, and entertainment; cooking demonstrations and contests; tastings; and picnics, cookouts, and many other food-related activities.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

3. Tourism Drivers

Adams County is blessed with more natural outdoors and historic painting, a treasure/scavenger’s hunt), attractions than most counties in Ohio. Yet, on measure after outdoors/water sports-related product measure, it is falling short in achieving its recreation and tourism demonstrations, promotions and displays, canoe potential. Tourism is a very important way to “bootstrap” up in a and kayak rentals, athletic competitions/races, county such as Adams since financial resources among local gourmet food trucks and festival foods, local arts households are limited. More money from outside of the county and crafts, outdoor art installations, boat races, flowing in will help everyone living in Adams County economically, fishing tournaments, and local historical tours to either directly or indirectly (even those who get “annoyed” by Manchester and islands. Emphasis should be outsiders, as past citizen surveys have noted). Factors that will placed on activities that make Adams County drive more tourism in Adams County include: unique and take advantage of Manchester’s long history on the Ohio River. a. Additional Activities and Events • Enhance the amenities offered and events • Add venues for popular sports such as off-road produced at historical sites within the county. motorcycling, 4-wheeling, tubing, paintball, rock- Most amenities lack interesting “triggers” that pull climbing, tree tent camping, and zip-line canopy tourists to them. Storytelling at each of the sites tours. See the recently opened Wild Walk in the should be enhanced and linked (if historically Adirondack region of New York featuring elevated appropriate) to create an historical entertainment trails, winding pedestrian bridges, and crafted tree experience. Several historical sites need to be houses for inspiration and ideas. More activities further developed to reflect their importance within for kids are needed in all of the villages. Ohio’s history. These sites in particular should be coordinated and co-developed with the Ohio • Form a committee to create a river festival in History Connection, State Historic Preservation Manchester on the Ohio River. This countywide Office and the National Register of Historic Places: festival should be developed at a large enough scale to attract outside visitors from all over o The Virginia Military District – first southern Ohio and northern Kentucky. It should settlement -Virginia Military District, in include some combination of live music, family 1784, the state of Virginia ceded all of its activities, games, and contests (examples: Northwest Territory to the federal horseshoes or corn-hole tournaments, martial arts government except for this tract to satisfy demonstrations, cutest baby contest, a selfie photo the land bounties owed to its Revolutionary station, a pet parade, children’s sidewalk art, face War soldiers.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

o Manchester - the site of the first white Ohio, including Staybridge Suites, Red Roof Inn, settlement in the Virginia Reservation, and Best Western, Days Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and the third settlement in Ohio Homewood Suites. Continue to add more beds- o Morgan’s Raiders Invasion Path – in and-breakfasts, rental cabins, lodges, and vacation northwestern Adams county, was a key homes. Discourage further campground path used by the Confederate Calvary for development except in conjunction with water- General Morgan’s mission and invasion of based facilities (see below). Ohio and Indiana during the Civil War o Paleo-Indian District - one of the largest • Recruit several full-service restaurants. Casual Paleo Indian sites in North America dining concepts with widest appeal to both locals o Serpent Mound - the largest and finest and visiting outdoors enthusiasts could include a serpent effigy in the United States steakhouse that includes gourmet burgers and o Underground Railroad Sites - a network of decadent desserts; a barbeque joint with pulled people/locations for those with or without pork, brisket, chicken, and shrimp entrees and tasty assistance who used resources at hand to home style sides and slices of pie; a microbrewery, escape slavery and find a means to head or even better, a micro-distillery with tastings and north to the free states or Canada during the pairings with exotic cuisine such as venison and antebellum/Civil War years other game; or a sports bar with big screen TVs everywhere, wings and craft beers on the menu, b. More and Better Visitor/Tourist Amenities and an energetic wait staff.

• Dedicated outdoors recreationists will tolerate, or A healthier fast casual option is needed as well for even revel, in the lack of amenities and ties to “city the under-40 physically-fit outdoors enthusiast life” found in Adams County. If Adams County crowd. Chipotle and 5 Guys Burgers are the much wants to grow its tourism business, it needs to add sought-after regional leaders, but several supporting amenities for casual outdoors tourists independents have been able to pull off excellent such as families with small children and novices. versions similar to the originals in Ohio towns too small to support high-volume chain locations. • Recruit a mid-priced, family-oriented hotel chain Great coffee, outdoor patios and seating, local art to open a new modern lodging facility in Adams on the walls, live music, murals on the outer walls, County along the U.S. Route 32 corridor, perhaps local sourcing of both food and beverages, and near the Adams County Regional Medical Center. ubiquitous social media marketing should be Use the results of the preceding market analysis to encouraged at all new dining and entertainment create interest among chains active in southern venues.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

c. More Development/Promotion of o Trailheads – where users can access the Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking Facilities trail, with parking, information and restrooms • Upgrade or replace Indian Springs Marina. o Portals – points at which users of the trail Upgrade/add existing boat docks and ramps with can exit the trailhead and visit a nearby camping grounds, shelter houses, restrooms, community showers, and overnight mooring bays. Add o Pathways – a corridor that trail users can canoe/kayak liveries and boat ramps (see below). follow from the portal to the central business districts of the villages • Promote on-water outdoor activities to visitors o Gateway – the point at which trail users and tourists. Help local kids, young adults, and enter the business district of the villages other beginners get started in canoeing and o Nodes – specific points of interest along or kayaking through classes and outings. near the pathway that will be utilized/visited by users • Enhance Ohio Brush Creek trailheads. Upgrade creek entry points, ramps, parking and camping e. Investigate ODNR and Parks and Recreation Grant amenities. Create public/private partnerships to Program Opportunities for Physical Amenity attract canoe/kayak livery businesses for rentals Construction and Improvements and tours/tour groups. • Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BigP) d. New Connections Between Tourist Activities o Eligibility - Communities, public and private tie-up facilities • Adams County has wonderful outdoors venues but o Summary - For construction of transient they operate as “silos” today. As shown in the map moorage facilities for non-trailer-able boats on page 69, better connections are needed for over 26-feet in length non-motorists between the River and trails and outdoors activity centers in the northern, • Clean Vessel Act western, and eastern parts of the County. North- o Eligibility- Public and private marinas south connecting trails will encourage boaters on o Summary- For construction of new or the Ohio River and Brush Creek to explore Adams replacement pump-out and/or dump County’s inland treasures. Key connecting elements stations to public and private marinas should include:

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

• Cooperative Public Boating Facility Projects • Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) o Eligibility- Political subdivisions, park o Eligibility- All local subdivisions of districts, conservancy districts, and government and local school boards (with agencies of state government prior approval) o Summary- For construction or o Summary- Up to 50 percent improvement of public facilities for reimbursement for outdoor recreation recreational boating on navigable waters projects o To be eligible for federal Land and Water • Recreational Harbor Evaluation Program Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant o Eligibility- Political subdivisions, park assistance, Ohio prepares and regularly districts, conservancy districts, and updates the Ohio Statewide agencies of state government Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan o Summary- For dredging public areas on (SCORP). Ohio's 2013 SCORP has been navigable waters approved by the Midwest Region Office of the National Park Service. Ohio reviews • Recreational Marine Loan Program LWCF grant applications and submits o Eligibility- Public marinas for recreational recommended projects to the National boats Park Service for final approval. All o Summary- Upon approval of a project, recommended projects must be in accord ODNR Division of Watercraft assists marina with Ohio's 2013 SCORP priorities. owners in obtaining lower interest rates on loans through a linked deposit program. • Clean Ohio Trails Fund o Eligibility- Local governments, park and • NatureWorks joint recreation districts, conservancy o Eligibility- All local subdivisions of districts, soil and water conservation government (local school boards are districts, and non-profit organizations ineligible) o Summary- For land acquisition for a trail, o Summary- Up to 75 percent reimbursement trail development, trailhead facilities, grants (state funding) for acquisition, engineering and design development, or rehabilitation of public park and recreation areas • Recreational Trails Program o Eligibility- Cities and villages, counties, townships, special districts, state and

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

federal agencies, and nonprofit Proposed Tourist and Village Connections Via Trails organizations o Summary- For development of urban trail linkages, trail head and trailside facilities; maintenance of existing trails; restoration of trail areas damaged by usage; improving access for people with disabilities; acquisition of easements and property; development and construction of new trails; purchase and lease of recreational trail construction and maintenance equipment; environment and safety education programs related to trails.

• Add kayak/canoe rentals and docks, small boat (motorized and non-motorized) launches, an amphitheater, picnicking pavilions, fishing piers, playgrounds, a bike park, a dog park, nature areas, and other activity areas along the Ohio River (i.e., Manchester, the confluence of the Ohio River and Ohio Brush Creek, Rome, and Sandy Springs) to form a river trail.

• Add all the amenities listed above at Manchester. In addition, more cabins/campgrounds, a Virginia Military history museum, ferry service to the Ohio River Islands, and land transportation to/from West Union should be developed.

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

• Add kayak/canoe rentals and other amenities on Adams County and its natural outdoors settings as Ohio Brush Creek to the north near Peebles to one of the state’s top tourist attractions. create a creek trail that runs from the Ohio River and the new river trail described above about 25 to • Adams County is not laid out on a simple grid 30 miles north to Peebles. A campground should pattern. Even with a good map, the county’s hilly be created at about 12 to 15 miles north of the Ohio topography and long narrow winding roads make River that is accessible to the Eulett Center, Edge of many of its attractions difficult for the average out- Appalachia Preserve, Buzzard’s Rock, and Scenic of-town visitor to find. More visible and strongly View Cottages. Canoe/kayak rentals, docks, branded county signage is much needed. Color- launches, and a campground should be built at the coding should be used on signage to differentiate northern apex of the trail in Peebles. Peebles could between historical/heritage, recreational, natural also support a convenience store that carries and cultural/arts sites/amenities. In addition, camping supplies and equipment, as well. support amenities should include:

• Develop a bike trail that connects Manchester all o Well-marked crosswalks the way to Seaman. Depending on its exact path, o Pedestrian-friendly sidewalks the trail could meander by quilt barns, Adams Lake, o Clearly identified bike paths Amish country, covered bridges, nature preserves, o Public restrooms, shower facilities and safe and other attractions on the western side of the drinking water county. Restaurants, a new hotel, camping, and o Benches and picnic areas bike rentals should be available in Seaman at the o Bike racks and canoe/kayak racks end of the trail. Some of these amenities could also o Outdoor vending machines be available in Cherry Fork, as well. o Street/trail lighting . o Short and long-term parking f. Improved Marketing and Wayfinding for Tourists o Local medical services o Identification of technical challenges • The Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau (beginner, average and expert trails) publishes a well-written, informative annual visitors and community guide and hosts an excellent • Cross-promotional marketing activities should be resourceful website. Both are deserving of more encouraged at all tourist amenities in Adams readers/visitors in more places. Marketing the County, regardless of whether they are privately marketing materials is almost as important as owned, or county/state/federal assets. The goal promoting Adams County itself. Tourism Ohio and should be to assure that tourists know and are other state-level groups should be positioning incentivized to partake in other Adams County

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

activities during their visit. For example, a environments and experiences throughout the kayaker/canoer should receive a special flyer that county. Adams County has one of the most diverse promotes the restaurants and grocery offerings, eco-climates in the state of Ohio, making it a perfect campgrounds and bait shops in the area, with location to experience a wide variety of real-life coupons. laboratory experiences.

• Collaborate with state and/or local biking, hiking, • Develop and market a variety of kayaking, canoeing, birding, fishing, hunting and potential/diverse/packaged trip activities, and the historical/heritage clubs/associations to disseminate necessary available amenities information and to promote Adams County activities. (lodging/campgrounds, dining, shopping, etc.), geared towards day trips and destination trips • Improved online advertising is critical to assure that (overnight of 2 or more days). Clearly identify the more potential customers are being reached online. accessible activities for various tourist types – hikers, bikers, campers, horsebackers, kayak/canoers, • Social media marketing on Facebook, Twitter, motor boaters, history buffs, hunters, ATVers, Instagram, Yelp and Trip Advisor should be fishers, wildlife/birders, nature observers, quilters, enhanced, maintained and monitored. etc. The goal is to identify the amenities and potential activities available to different tourist • The Adams County website should utilize SEO segments and simplify the planning and decision- (search engine optimization) services to enhance its making process. online presence, increase website traffic and drive visitors to in-county tourism amenity’s websites. A mobile website should be considered, given most people use their smart phones to access travel information (i.e. lodging, food, entertainment, recreation, etc. information). Google gives precedence to mobile websites in their search rankings, given mobile sites are easier to use.

• Develop and market educational programs that encourage awareness of the natural, cultural and historical attributes of Adams County assets on trails and byways. Coordinate with educators, naturalists, rangers and scoutmasters to develop real life learning

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Adams County Real Estate & Market Analysis

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Appendix

Appendix Adams Co. Full and Part-time Employment

Adams County Full and Part-time Employment by Major Industry for the period 2003-2013

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Total Employment 11,577 11,939 12,094 12,320 12,624 12,133 12,133 11,651 11,624 11,145 11,195 By Type Wage & Salary empl. 6,656 6,902 6,962 7,140 7,267 6,913 6,444 6,419 6,347 6,005 5,983

Proprietors Employment 4,921 5,037 5,132 5,180 5,357 5,220 5,311 5,232 5,277 5,140 5,212

Farm Prop. Employment 1,270 1,250 1,255 1,243 1,248 1,277 1,220 1,213 1,204 1,194 1,186

Non-farm Prop. Employment 3,651 3,787 3,877 3,937 4,109 3,993 4,091 4,019 4,073 3,946 4,026 By Industry Farm Employment 1,296 1,280 1,289 1,285 1,300 1,267 1,263 1,256 1,245 1,247 1,235

Non-farm employment 10,281 10,659 10,805 11,035 11,324 10,866 10,492 10,395 10,379 9,898 9,960

Private non-farm employment 8,632 8,964 9,073 9,272 9,592 9,099 8,717 8,656 8,736 8,308 8,362

Forestry, fishing, etc. S S 129 S S 200 167 S S S S

Mining S S 68 S S 83 93 S S S S

Utilities S S S S 436 323 201 193 191 181 170

Construction 941 954 955 1,031 1,303 1,143 862 876 S S 838

Manufacturing 688 836 944 1,025 1,098 950 S 769 880 777 782

Wholesale Trade 207 227 207 203 197 194 198 280 292 301 295

Retail Trade 435 493 498 474 438 454 517 487 483 444 450

1 A Patchwork of History and Nature ADAMS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM PLAN Appendix

Transportation/ warehousing S S S S 370 331 323 375 307 316 326

Information 64 68 68 65 65 61 60 57 S 51 51

Finance and insurance 391 399 400 401 433 381 392 360 365 355 368

Real Estate, Rental/leasing 435 493 498 474 438 454 517 487 483 444 450

Prof. Scientific, & Technical S 264 262 267 289 S 275 286 291 285 250

Mgmt of companies S S S S S S S S S S S Admin & waste mgmt. 279 S S S S 332 S S S S S services

Educ. Services 52 S S S S S S 50 S 55 S

Healthcare & social Asst. 1,046 S S S S S S 1,274 S 1,250 S

Arts, entertainment & 111 113 105 115 122 106 103 98 106 106 110 Recreation Accommodation & Food 648 673 671 650 642 676 734 682 695 682 656 service Other Services except public 792 828 834 809 806 792 795 797 S 808 834 Administration Gov’t/Gov’t enterprises 1,649 1,695 1,732 1,763 1,732 1,767 1,775 1,739 1,643 1,590 1,598

Federal-civilian 79 78 76 76 77 76 75 82 66 67 69

Military 77 77 72 72 70 73 74 73 73 73 72

State & Local 1,493 1,540 1,584 1,615 1,585 1,618 1,626 1,584 1,504 1,450 1,457

State Gov’t 46 46 47 50 51 49 47 46 42 41 38

Local Gov’t 1,447 1,494 1,537 1,565 1,534 1,569 1,579 1,538 1,462 1,409 1,419

S- Suppressed to avoid disclosure of confidential information Information source: Ohio Regional Economic Analysis Project (OH-REAP) with data provided by U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Nov. 2014

2 POGGEMEYER DESIGN GROUP • THE EDGE GROUP • BOULEVARD STRATEGIES