Roanoke Region Outdoor Impact, Infrastructure and Investment
Roanoke Region Outdoor Impact, Infrastructure and Investment Prepared for the Roanoke Regional Partnership & Roanoke Outside Foundation| August 2018 Table of Contents 04 About This Report 08 Executive Summary Business & Talent Wage Growth Attraction 12 The Case 20 Recommendations 30 Funding Structure Attractive Outdoor Impact Tourism Environment 38 Organizational Structure 44 Best Practices Healthy Global Brand Community Recognition 50 Supporting Data 60 Survey Results and National Trends 3 About This Report Avalanche Consulting, a leader in economic development consulting, and GreenPlay, a consortium of experts on parks, recreation, and open spaces, utilized research, local community input, and national studies and trends to create this report for the Roanoke Region of Virginia. Recommendations contained within this report are intended to be a blueprint for both public and private sector investment to support future growth of the region. This report includes the following: • The Case – Background information and context that shows why there is an urgent need for outdoor infrastructure investments in the region and a summary of goals and strategies to take the region’s outdoor assets to the next level. • Recommendations – A look at actionable elements and specific goals, strategies, and tactics related to investing in outdoor infrastructure, engaging the community, marketing outdoor assets to business and talent, and attracting and supporting businesses that complement the outdoor economy, ultimately setting the region up for long-term economic prosperity. • Funding and Organizational Structure – Organization and funding options are a key component to optimize a program focused on enhancing, maintaining, and sustaining outdoor infrastructure and the region’s competitive advantage. • Best Practices – Examples of organization and funding sources are outlined, including the Anacostia River Clean Up and Protection Fund, Outdoor Knoxville, and Oklahoma City MAPS.
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