The Pittsylvania County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) is in the early phases of a strategic economic development process for Pittsylvania County, in coordination with the City of Danville and the Danville Regional Foundation.
The regional partnership with Danville, in particular the high value assets found at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, the U.S. Navy’s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence, Center for Manufacturing Advancement, and the Danville Community College Regional Center for Advanced Training and Technology, will always be the main focus and cornerstone of the County’s prosperity.
This uniquely Pittsylvania County process, combined with the City of Danville’s process, contributes to a larger regional plan that further extends the excellent regional cooperation that has achieved great success and promises more.
“Our regional cooperation is the envy of many across Virginia,” said Dr. Joey Faucette, IDA Board Chairman, as he invited the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors (Board) to be a part that effort at its August 15 work session. “This plan builds on our regional model while leveraging the strengths and assets of the County,” he said.
The County’s history of collaborating with the City of Danville and other regional alliances has been valuable. There is a need for a plan that is specific to the County, Faucette said.
“Pittsylvania County is large — 978 square miles; the largest County in land area in Virginia — and it encompasses many different micro-economies, each with their own unique needs for infrastructure, suppliers, transportation, and workforce. The IDA believes these micro-economies must be addressed individually and collectively,” said Faucette.
The IDA is considering a four-pronged approach that expands on agriculture and forestry and its related enterprises; focuses on the County’s three small towns and small business development and other key areas; and identifies strategies to attract and retain a talented workforce through workforce development and housing, educational opportunities, childcare and community gathering places.
The plan will be paid for through IDA funding, which is obtained from business investment in the community, said Faucette.
Faucette said that once the scope of work is secured and consultants are selected, the Board will be asked to actively participate and to represent its constituents in the process.
The Pittsylvania Industrial Development Authority works with staff to promote industry and develop trade in the County. It is made up of seven members and represent each district in the County. Members of the IDA are appointed by the Board and serve four-year terms.