In the Earth to Sky Park blog this month, we would like to acknowledge a very important project that we are proud to be a part of called Blue Ridge Rising.
Blue Ridge Rising is an initiative of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising partner for the Blue Ridge Parkway, to strengthen cross-jurisdictional relationships, foster economic development within the region’s gateway communities, and establish a unified regional voice.
The Parkway is one of the most visited units of the National Park System, hosting 15.9 million visitors along its ridges in 2021. The 469-mile ribbon of road travels through 12 counties in Virginia and 17 counties in North Carolina, connecting rural mountain communities, towns, and cities.
The Parkway generates approximately $1.3 billion of positive annual economic impact on the adjacent communities. The Parkway is a catalyst for promoting regional tourism and is a significant contributor to regional economic vitality.
Blue Ridge Rising will establish a collective regional vision that celebrates our shared culture, protects our unique natural resources, and strengthens the regional economy.
Here are the Goals of the project:
Inventory significant regional assets, including natural resources, historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor recreation opportunities that enhance the experience of the Parkway visitor.
Engage government and community leaders to identify strengths and opportunities within and between Parkway communities to attract more visitors.
Cultivate a regional coalition and strengthen relationships between gateway communities to connect and further leverage the Parkway and regionally significant assets.
Inspire a unified and coherent vision that elevates the entire Parkway corridor and gateway communities to generate new resources and opportunities.
Develop a comprehensive Action Plan that strengthens gateway communities and enhances the Parkway traveler experience.
Blue Ridge Rising is made possible in part by two grants from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, the gateway communities, and 16 million annual visitors all depend on each other. We now have all the pieces in place to move forward together.” -Carolyn Ward, chief executive officer of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
For more information, visit their website: www.BlueRidgeRising.com
