Tazewell-Comp-Plan-2017

Tazewell-Comp-Plan-2017

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Tazewell County

2017 Comprehensive

Plan

Adopted October 3, 2017

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan i

Table of Contents I. Introduction … 1

A. The Purpose of the Plan… 2

B. Developing and Organizing the Plan … 3

C. Legal Basis for the Plan … 3

Relationship to Other Planning Efforts … 3
Citizen Involvement … 4

D. Adoption Process for the Plan … 5

E. Planning for the Future … 5

Organization of this Plan… 5

II. Location and Geography … 7

A. Regional Perspective … 7

B. Topography and Geography … 7

III. Background and Demographics … 11

A. Historic Development Patterns … 11

B. Demographics and Background… 12

C. Housing Patterns and Structures … 18

Affordable Housing… 20
Subsidized and Assisted Housing Programs … 21
Assisted Living and Nursing Homes… 22

IV. Transportation … 26

A. Transportation Modes and Networks … 26

B. New Transportation Regulations … 35

V. Community Facilities and Governance … 40

A. Community and Human Services … 40

B. Healthcare Facilities and Services … 41

C. Veterinary Services… 43

D. Public Safety Services and Facilities… 44

Fire and Rescue … 44
Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department … 44
911 Emergency Response Center … 45
Pocahontas State Correctional Center … 46

Table of Contents

I. Introduction. A. The Purpose of the Plan B. Developing and Organizing the Plan…

C. Legal Basis for the Plan…

Relationship to Other Planning Efforts
Citizen Involvement…u:snmnsnnnnninnnnnnnineinininininninninnnnninainainainnnnnienie 4

D. Adoption Process for the Plan…

E. Planning for the Future

1, Organization of this Plan… IL. Location and Geography A. Regional Perspective

B. Topography and Geograph

III. Background and Demographics. A. Historic Development Patterns. ul B. Demographics and Background. 12 C. Housing Patterns and Structures. 18

Affordable Housin
Subsidized and Assisted Housing Programs. 21
Assisted Living and Nursing Homes. 2

IV. Transportation

A. Transportation Modes and Networks…

B. New Transportation Regulations…

V. Community Facilities and Governance…

A. Community and Human Services…

B. Healthcare Facilities and Services…

C. Veterinary Services.

D. Public Safety Services and Facilities…

Fire and Rescue…
Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department…
911 Emergency Response Center …

4, Pocahontas State Correctional Center… Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan i

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan ii

E. Recreational Services and Facilities … 47

VI. Infrastructure and Land Use … 50

A. Information Technology Infrastructure … 50

B. Water and Sewer … 50

C. Solid Waste Management … 51

D. Telecommunications … 51

D. Land Use… 54

Land Use Tools … 54
Environment and Land Use… 55
Urban Forest (Green Infrastructure) … 56

VII. Education and Training … 59

A. Public Education… 59

B. Higher Education … 64

C. Continuing Education … 65

VII. Economy and Culture … 70

A. Development and Structures … 70

B. Current Industry and Development … 71

Mining and Related Industries … 76
Healthcare and Service Industries … 77
Agriculture and Agribusiness … 77

C. Emerging Technology and Development … 81

D. Tourism … 85

IX. Future Land Use Designations … 91

A. Agricultural … 91

B. Forestal … 91

C. Rural Residential … 91

D. Residential … 91

F. Industrial … 91

G. Mixed Use … 91

H. Scenic / Heritage Area … 92

E. Recreational Services and Facilities

VI. Infrastructure and Land Us

A, Information Technology Infrastructure 50 B, Water and Sewer. 50 C. Solid Waste Management 51 D. Telecommunications 31 D. Land Us

Land Use T0OIS .s.sssssestneeses
Environment and Land Use…
Urban Forest (Green Infrastructure) 56

VII. Education and Training … A. Public Education…

B. Higher Education…

C. Continuing Education

VII, Economy and Culture…

A. Development and Structures …

B. Current Industry and Development .

Mining and Related Industries …00cnsinnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnsnnnnnnnnnnnet 16
Healthcare and Service Industries…
Agriculture and Agribusiness…cnsnerssn 77 C, Emerging Technology and Development 8 D. Tourism 85

IX, Future Land Use Designations

A. Agricultural

B, Forestal

C, Rural Residential 1 D. Residential 1 F, Industrial 1 G. Mixed Use 91 H. Scenic / Heritage Area. 92

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan ii

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan iii

Table of Contents - Figures

Figure 2.1 Tazewell County Woodland Uses……………………….………… 7

Figure 2.2 Tazewell County Digital Elevation Model………….……… 8

Figure 2.3 Watersheds and Fault Lines of Tazewell County….……………… 10

Figure 3.1 Population Change from 1970-2012……………………….………… 13

Figure 3.2 Tazewell County Population Density by District in 2010………. 14

Figure 3.3 Age Distribution in Tazewell County…………………………… 15

Figure 3.4 Median Family Income: County, State and National
Comparison………………………………………………………… 16

Figure 3.5 Median Household Income: County, State and National
Comparison…………………………………………………………… 17

Figure 3.6 Health Insurance Coverage, 2010…………………………….……. 17

Figure 3.7 1990-2011 Owner and Renter Occupation of Housing:
Tazewell County, Virginia and the US Statistics……………… 19

Figure 3.8 Subsidized Housing Properties in Tazewell County…………… 21

Figure 3.9 Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in Tazewell
County………………………………………………………….………… 23

Figure 4.1 Primary and Secondary Road Map of Tazewell County……… 27

Figure 4.2 2010 Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC……… 28

Figure 4.3 Map of Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC……… 29

Figure 4.4 1990-2010 Method of Transportation to Work: Tazewell
County, Virginia and the US Statistics…………………….………. 31

Figure 7.1 Tazewell County Public School Enrollment 2013-2014………… 60

Figure 7.2 Tazewell County Vocational School Enrollment 2013-2014…………… 61

Figure 7.3 Tazewell County High School SOL Scores 2011-2013………………… 62

Figure 7.4 2010-2012 Graduation Rates for All Students: Cumberland
Plateau Planning District…………………………………………… 63

Figure 7.5 Tazewell County College Enrollment - Fall 2010……………….…… 64

Figure 7.6 Education Attainment Comparison for Tazewell County…… 66

Table of Contents - Figures

Figure 2.1 Tazewell County Woodland Uses. 7 Figure 2.2 Tazewell County Digital Elevation Model. 8 Figure 2.3 Watersheds and Fault Lines of Tazewell County 10 Figure 3.1 Population Change from 1970-2012 13 Figure 3.2 Tazewell County Population Density by District in 2010. 14 Figure 3.3 Age Distribution in Tazewell County…–.ccccceeecesnnnnnnnne 1S Figure 3.4 Median Family Income: County, State and National

Comparison… a a . ees 16

Figure 3.5 Median Household Incom

‘ounty, State and Nat

Compariso 17 Figure 3.6 Health Insurance Coverage, 2010. 7 Figure 3.7 1990-2011 Owner and Renter Occupation of Housing:

‘Tazewell County, Virginia and the US Statistics 19 Figure 3.8 Subsidized Housing Properties in Tazewell County…00000- a Figure 3.9 Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in Tazewell

County… a) Figure 4.1 Primary and Secondary Road Map of Tazewell County. 27 Figure 4.2 2010 Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC 28 Figure 4.3 Map of Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC…c000. 29 Figure 4.4 1990-2010 Method of Transportation to Work: Tazewell

County, V and the US Statisties… sevens 3H Figure 7.1 Tazewell County Public School Enrollment 2013-2014… 60 Figure 7.2, Tazewell County Vocational School Enrollment 2013-2014… 61 Figure 7.3 Tazewell County High School SOL Scores 2011-2013… 62 Figure 7.4 2010-2012 Graduation Rates for All Students: Cumberland

Plateau Planning Distriet… 63 Figure 7.5 Tazewell County College Enrollment - Fall 2010…0 64 Figure 7.6 Education Attainment Comparison for Tazewell County. 66

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan iii

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan iv

Figure 8.1 50 Largest Employers in Tazewell County, 2014…………… 72-74

Figure 8.2 Annual Average Weekly Wage : Tazewell Count, CPPDC, and Virginia…………………………………………………………………… 75

Figure 8.3 Coal Production and Number of Mines, 2012/2013 (Thousand Short
Tons)…………………………………………………………………… 76

Figure 8.4 Agriculture in Tazewell County…………��………………………… 78

Figure 8.5 Agriculture Types and Rank in Tazewell County…………… 79

Figure 8.6 Wood Product and Type by Cubic Feet: Tazewell County…… 80

Figure 8.7 Site Plan Map of Bluestone………………………………………… 82

Figure 8.8 Ridgeline Ordinance Map ………………………………………. 87

Figure 8.9 Tourism Economic Impacts………………………………………. 88

Figure 9.1 Future Land Use Map…………………………………………. 93

Figure 8.1

Figure 8.2

Figure 8.3

Figure 8.4 Figure 8.5 Figure 8.6 Figure 8.7 Figure 8.8 Figure 8.9

Figure 9.1

50 Largest Employers in Tazewell County, 2014… seen TTA

Annual Average Wee

Virginia… 75 Coal Production and Number of Mines, 2012/2013 (Thousand Short

Tons)… seveoeeeenettissesseseeee senneeeeees 16 Agriculture in Tazewell County. 78 Agriculture Types and Rank in Tazewell County… 79) Wood Product and Type by Cubic Feet: Tazewell County. 80 Site Plan Map of Bluestone. foe sees fees scseeeseennne cece 82 Ridgeline Ordinance Map. …0…0.sssscsscssessessessessssssesssenseee 87 Tourism Economic Impacts. 88 Future Land Use Map…-…00–sccccnnnnnnnnnnisniiiessssssseeseeee 93

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan iv

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 1

I. Introduction

Located in southwestern Virginia, Tazewell County sits in a region known for agricultural, historical, resource, and cultural significance. With a total area of over 500 square miles, Tazewell County has many assets and resources that require attention and regular evaluation, promotion and even regulation to manage appropriately for the wellbeing and support of the citizens and industries of the county.
Additionally, many natural, cultural, educational and economic challenges faced by citizens and organizations within the county demand the attention of local, regional, state and national governmental bodies and agencies. For appropriate development to occur within Tazewell County,
these governmental entities must evaluate the needs and assets of Tazewell County and develop appropriate planning, implementation policies and tools to guide the growth and development of the county to the greatest benefit of all citizens while protecting the core values, resources, and historic context of this community.

The area, now called Tazewell County, was first occupied by an indigenous people known as Woodland Indians. Little is known of these early inhabitants, but from the artifacts found in cornfields, caves, and burial grounds that are scattered across the county, it is clear that they were an organized society of people and groups. One unique artifact in the county is the pictograph display at Paint Lick Mountain. The meaning of these paintings is not empirically known, but historic researchers to the site believe they are representative of many tribes and relate to the rituals around the summer solstice. The Woodland Indians were gone long before pioneers and European settlers arrived. The Cherokee and Shawnee Indians were using the lands as hunting grounds at that time, but had no permanent settlements in the area.

The first permanent European setter was most likely Thomas Witten who built a cabin on the Big Crab Orchard Tract in 1770. This tract’s previous owners include Patrick Henry. Other settlers soon arrived by way of the Wilderness Trail, most of these early pioneers being of Scotch-Irish descent.

Tazewell County was formed in 1799 and was named for Senator Henry Tazewell of Norfolk County.
Senator Tazewell opposed the formation of the county and only consented to support this westward expansion of Virginia when told the county would bear his name. The original boundaries of the county consisted of an area east of present day Giles County to the Kentucky border. The current land area of the Tazewell County is approximately 520 square miles with dramatically changing elevations from 1900 to 4700 feet above sea level. Tazewell County is split along the eastern continental divide and is thus home to many headwaters and streams. To the east, the streams flow into the New River; to the north into the Big Sandy; to the west into the Clinch River; and to the south into the Holston River.

This area of Virginia is also home to growing technologies and the challenges of competing development. As with many rural communities across the country, Tazewell County is feeling the development pressures driven by suburban housing sprawl and the infrastructure and services expected and desired by the populations living there. Agricultural uses, as well as commercial, and industrial developments vie for the same areas of arable land found in the valleys and small acreages of low-

I. Introduction

Located in southwestern Virginia, Tazewell County sits in a region known for agricultural, historical, resource, and cultural significance. With a total area of over 500 square miles, Tazewell County has many assets and resources that require attention and regular evaluation, promotion and even regulation to manage appropriately for the wellbeing and support of the citizens and industries of the county. ‘Additionally, many natural, cultural, educational and economic challenges faced by citizens and organizations within the county demand the attention of local, regional, state and national governmental bodies and agencies. For appropriate development to occur within Tazewell County, these governmental entities must evaluate the needs and assets of Tazewell County and develop appropriate planning, implementation policies and tools to guide the growth and development of the county to the greatest benefit of all citizens while protecting the core values, resources, and historic context of this community.

The area, now called Tazewell County, was first occupied by an indigenous people known as Woodland Indians. Little is known of these early inhabitants, but from the artifacts found in cornfields, caves, and burial grounds that are scattered across the county, it is clear that they were an organized society of people and groups. One unique artifact in the county is the pictograph display at Paint Lick Mountain, The meaning of these paintings is not empirically known, but historic researchers to the site believe they are representative of many tribes and relate to the rituals around the summer solstice. The Woodland Indians were gone long before pioneers and European settlers arrived. ‘The Cherokee and Shawnee Indians were using the lands as hunting grounds at that time, but had no permanent settlements in the area.

The first permanent European setter was most likely Thomas Witten who built a cabin on the Big Crab Orchard Tract in 1770. This tract’s previous owners include Patrick Henry. Other settlers soon arrived by way of the Wildemess Trail, most of these early pioneers being of Scotch-Irish descent.

Tazewell County was formed in 1799 and was named for Senator Henry Tazewell of Norfolk County. Senator Tazewell opposed the formation of the county and only consented to support this westward expansion of Virginia when told the county would bear his name. The original boundaries of the county consisted of an area east of present day Giles County to the Kentucky border. The current land area of the Tazewell County is approximately 520 square miles with dramatically changing elevations from 1900 to 4700 feet above sea level. Tazewell County is split along the eastern continental divide and is thus home to many headwaters and streams. To the east, the streams flow into the New River: to the north into the Big Sandy; to the west into the Clinch River; and to the south into the Holston River.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 1

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 2

slope sections of the county. Tazewell County is constantly changing and developing, just as it has throughout its history, a fact that has contributed directly to its rich and diverse community. By planning for and guiding that change toward a community-developed vision of the future, Tazewell County can maintain its most significant historic and natural treasures while still embracing the development that will employ its people and strengthen its economic base for the future. From past to present, Tazewell County has much to admire as well as a responsibility to protect valuable natural and cultural resources and promote growth and development in areas most desired by its residents.

A. The Purpose of the Plan

The purpose of a Comprehensive Plan is to provide a basis for assisting the County in promoting an optimal development pattern over the next 20 years, given existing constraints and opportunities.
Recommendations are aimed at preventing haphazard and incompatible land use development through the implementation of locally-supported public policy. Additionally, the plan can help assist the county in developing strategies for better communication with citizens, businesses, and organizations functioning with the locality and with regional entities that affect county development. The Comprehensive Plan will serve as a framework for the long-range allocation of resources to meet identified needs and set the vision for land use in the county. The plan is general in nature and considers the physical, social, and economic factors that interact in the county and is the basis by which governing and recommending bodies assess development and preservation opportunities in their community.

This document is also a statement of goals and objectives designed to stimulate public interest and responsibility. A locality’s plan must reflect the foresight of its leaders and the will of the citizens. It can enhance the citizens’ knowledge of the developmental plans and commitment to the overall goals of the county. And, as such, the success or failure of Tazewell County’s Comprehensive Plan depends primarily upon the commitment of county leaders and citizens. Periodic review and updating, the comprehensive plan may serve as the guiding vision for the community in areas of land use, population density guidelines, infrastructure enhancements, community service centers, and community involvement models.

The authority under which this plan has been prepared is contained in Chapter 15.2-2200-15.2-2224 of the Code of Virginia. It should be noted that this plan is not a law or ordinance. Rather, a recommendation by the Tazewell County Planning Commission and adoption by the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors establishes this plan as the official guide for development of the county in the areas of economic development, housing, quality of life, and land use. The implementation of this plan is accomplished by other means, such as the Subdivision Ordinance, County regulations and laws, and the Capital Improvements Program.

A. The Purpose of the Plan

The purpose of a Comprehensive Plan is to provide a basis for assisting the County in promoting an optimal development pattern over the next 20 years, given existing constraints and opportunities. Recommendations are aimed at preventing haphazard and incompatible land use development through the implementation of locally-supported public policy. Additionally, the plan can help assist the county in developing strategies for better communication with citizens, businesses, and organizations functioning with the locality and with regional entities that affect county development. The Comprehensive Plan will serve as a framework for the long-range allocation of resources to meet identified needs and set the vision for land use in the county. The plan is general in nature and considers the physical, social, and economic factors that interact in the county and is the basis by which governing and recommending bodies assess development and_ preservation opportunities in their community.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 2

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 3

B. Developing and Organizing the Plan

A Comprehensive Plan is the most basic tool available to a local government that provides a means by which a community can assess these forces of change and thereby identify future needs and allocate its resources accordingly. The plan, as its name implies, is comprehensive in nature and intended to represent the long-range goals and visions for future growth and development throughout the area.
The purpose of this document is to provide a set of guidelines for the future growth and development of Tazewell County.

The Comprehensive Plan consists of an inventory and analysis of past trends and development, as well as an analysis of existing conditions, and a statement of goals and objectives for the future. It should be noted that this document focuses on the unincorporated areas of the county and excludes the towns of Bluefield, Cedar Bluff, Pocahontas, Richlands, and Tazewell, which have their own comprehensive plans.

C. Legal Basis for the Plan

Comprehensive Plans have been mandatory in Virginia for all jurisdictions since 1980. The Code of Virginia contains a broad enabling legislation for counties, cities, and towns. Virginia legislation requires local planning commissions to “prepare and recommend a Comprehensive Plan for the physical development of the territory within its jurisdiction and every governing body shall adopt a Comprehensive Plan for the territory under its jurisdictions” (Section 15.2-2223).

The basic purpose of the plan is established in the Code of Virginia, Section 15.2-2223, states: “The Comprehensive Plan shall be made with the purpose of guiding and accomplishing a coordinated, adjusted, and harmonious development of the territory which will, in accordance with present and probable future needs and resources, best promote the health, safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity, and general welfare of the inhabitants.”

The State Code of Virginia mandates that the planning commission review the Comprehensive Plan every five years to determine if any amendments are needed (Section 15.2-2230). Once the Comprehensive Plan is adopted by the governing body, it has the following legal status: “Whenever a local planning commission recommends a local Comprehensive Plan or part thereof for the locality and such plan has been approved by the governing body, it shall control the general or approximate location, character, and extent of each feature shown on the plan” (Section 15.2-2232).

Relationship to Other Planning Efforts

A variety of documents relate directly to the planning goals outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. The Tazewell County Comprehensive Plan incorporates several documents that currently guide the development of the county in areas such as transportation, water and sewer service, and economic develop. The policies set forth in these documents are an integral component of the revised Comprehensive Plan and thereby reinforce the goals and objectives presented herein. The following list represents documents and planning efforts that have substantial impact on the development of this plan:

B. Developing and Organizing the Plan

A Comprehensive Plan is the most basic tool available to a local government that provides a means by which a community can assess these forces of change and thereby identify future needs and allocate its resources accordingly. The plan, as its name implies, is comprehensive in nature and intended to represent the long-range goals and visions for future growth and development throughout the area. The purpose of this document is to provide a set of guidelines for the future growth and development of Tazewell County,

‘The Comprehensive Plan consists of an inventory and analysis of past trends and development, as well as an analysis of existing conditions, and a statement of goals and objectives for the future. It should be noted that this document focuses on the unincorporated areas of the county and excludes the towns of Bluefield, Cedar Bluff, Pocahontas, Richlands, and Tazewell, which have their own comprehensive plans.

C. Legal Basis for the Plan

Relationship to Other Planning Efforts

‘A variety of documents relate directly to the planning goals outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. The Tazewell County Comprehensive Plan incorporates several documents that currently guide the development of the county in areas such as transportation, water and sewer service, and economic develop. The policies set forth in these documents are an integral component of the revised Comprehensive Plan and thereby reinforce the goals and objectives presented herein. The following list represents documents and planning efforts that have substantial impact on the development of this plan:

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 3

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 4

· Tazewell County’s Tourism Strategic Plan

· Tazewell County’s Strategic Economic Development Plan

· Tazewell County Watershed Management and Water and Sewer Plan

· Tazewell County Public Schools’ Report Card

· Tazewell County Directory of Community Resources

· VDOT Access Management Regulations

· VDOT Chapter 527; Coordinating State and Local Transportation Planning

However, many unofficial and informal discussions and efforts have been and continue to be underway in the county and the Planning Commission commends and recognizes these efforts as crucial to the orderly and effective development and preservation efforts of the county.

Citizen Involvement

Comprehensive plans may be implemented through the various land use tools available to localities: an official map, a capital improvements program, a zoning ordinance and district map, a subdivision ordinance, and a mineral resources map, or some combination of any or all of the above (Section 15.2- 2224). The Code also requires surveys and studies be made in preparing the plan and that the plan include methods of implementation and a current map of the area covered by the plan (Section 15.2- 2224). Specific procedural requirements are contained in the Code to ensure at least a minimum level of public notice, so that citizens have an opportunity to provide their ideas and comments on the plan (Section 15.2-2225).

Citizen involvement in the planning process is a central requirement for a Comprehensive Plan.
Citizen involvement assures that the plan adequately serves the community and all its residents. Diverse opinions assure that the plan is broad based. Since the county’s Comprehensive Plan drafted in 1996, the county has worked with established and informal citizen groups to gain insight and representation during the development of the previous plan edition in 2008 . Several topic-oriented committees were established in 2005 to gather data and form the backbone of that plan for the various areas of study and focus. Following this important data gathering phase, the committees developed comprehensive reports and recommendations that have been incorporated into the plan. Additional citizen input from 2008 came in many forms including surveys, interviews, neighborhood meetings, and public meetings. This process provided notable sources of public input into the planning process. The guidance of this plan for the future is more

Tazewell County’s Tourism Strategic Plan

Tazewell County’s Strategic Economic Development Plan Tazewell County Watershed Management and Water and Sewer Plan
Tazewell County Public Schools’ Report Card Tazewell County Directory of Community Resources
VDOT Access Management Regulations VDOT Chapter 527; Coordinating State and Local Transportation Planning

Citizen Involvement

Citizen involvement in the planning process is a central requirement for a Comprehensive Plan.

Citizen involvement assures that the plan adequately serves the community and all its residents. Diverse opinions assure that the plan is broad based, Since the county’s Comprehensive Plan drafted in 1996, the county has worked with established and informal citizen groups to gain insight and representation during the development of the previous plan edition in 2008 . Several topic-oriented committees were established in 2005 to gather data and form the backbone of that plan for the various areas of study and focus. Following this important data gathering phase, the committees developed comprehensive reports and recommendations that have been incorporated into the plan. Additional citizen input from 2008 came in many forms including surveys, interviews, neighborhood meetings, and public meetings. This process provided notable sources of public input into the planning process. The guidance of this plan for the future is more

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 4

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 5

beneficial because it is truly developed by the citizens of the county. A working committee with representation from the Planning Commission, was established in the spring of 2012 to guide the 2015 Comprehensive Plan planning process, based on changes from the 2008 Comprehensive Plan and data updates from federal, state, and local agencies.

D. Adoption Process for the Plan

Following the completion of the Draft Comprehensive Plan, the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing to allow citizens the opportunity to provide comment on the document. The Comprehensive Plan is recommended for adoption by the Planning Commission and must be officially adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Once the plan is adopted by the governing body, it becomes an official plan for the county.

Upon adoption of the Comprehensive Plan, all amendments to it shall be recommended, approved, and adopted in accordance with the requirements set forth in the Code of Virginia (Sec. 15.2-2229). The Board of Supervisors may direct the Planning Commission to prepare an amendment to the plan and submit it to public hearing within sixty days after formal written request by the board (Sec. 15.2-2229).
The purpose of this process is to allow for amendments that must be made to the plan prior to the completion of the required review at the end of five years. By allowing for the gradual update of the plan, all of the major components will have been replaced or substantially revised to meet changed or future needs.

E. Planning for the Future

Planning helps to focus efforts and to access the most value from community resources. Planning creates a better place to live for current and for future generations. The complexity and interdependence of the world create impacts on Tazewell County and its residents. Without planning, these impacts can be unexpected and nearly always detrimental. Communities plan because it is the responsible thing to do.

Organization of this Plan

The 2013 Tazewell County Comprehensive Plan is organized into six chapters. Five chapters focus on the topical areas of assessment and review for development. These chapters contain demographic and area-specific information and are followed by the implementation that integrates goals, objectives, and strategies into the plan. The final chapter contains components that reflect the land use desires of the citizens of Tazewell County.

D. Adoption Process for the Plan

Following the completion of the Draft Comprehensive Plan, the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing to allow citizens the opportunity to provide comment on the document, The Comprehensive Plan is recommended for adoption by the Planning Commission and must be officially adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Once the plan is adopted by the governing body, it becomes an official plan for the county.

Upon adoption of the Comprehensive Plan, all amendments to it shall be recommended, approved, and adopted in accordance with the requirements set forth in the Code of Virginia (Sec. 15.2-2229). The Board of Supervisors may direct the Planning Commission to prepare an amendment to the plan and submit it to public hearing within sixty days after formal written request by the board (Sec. 15.2-2229). The purpose of this process is to allow for amendments that must be made to the plan prior to the completion of the required review at the end of five years. By allowing for the gradual update of the plan, all of the major components will have been replaced or substantially revised to meet changed or future needs.

E. Planning for the Future

Planning helps to focus efforts and to access the most value from community resources. Planning creates a better place to live for current and for future generations. The complexity and interdependence of the world create impacts on Tazewell County and its residents. Without planning, these impacts can be unexpected and nearly always detrimental, Communities plan because it is the responsible thing to do.

Organization of this Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 5

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 6

The Tazewell County Planning Commission meets regularly to discuss land use issues and provide guidance to the Board of Supervisors in areas of subdivision layout and protection and mitigation of environmental concerns of the county. In addition, there are many other departments within the county government structure as well as myriad of community-based organizations that work to advance the county and its citizens. These groups working together toward a common goal can bring the energy and resources necessary to reach the stated goals of Tazewell County. Each of the main heading
categories were areas of specific focus that emerged from the Comprehensive Planning Task Force Committees during the last Comprehensive Plan cycle as critical areas for attention in the near future. The Tazewell County Planning Commission Comprehensive Plan Subcommittee chose to continue with these categories with this plan. With each category, there is a description of the current situation, which is then followed by the goals, objectives and strategies for this five-year cycle of planning for the county.

The Tazewell County Planning Commission meets regularly to discuss land use issues and provide guidance to the Board of Supervisors in areas of subdivision layout and protection and mitigation of environmental concerns of the county. In addition, there are many other departments within the county government structure as well as myriad of community-based organizations that work to advance the county and its citizens. ‘These groups working together toward a common goal can bring the energy and resources necessary to reach the stated goals of Tazewell County. Each of the main heading categories were areas of specific focus that emerged from the Comprehensive Planning Task Force Committees during the last Comprehensive Plan cycle as critical areas for attention in the near future. The Tazewell County Planning Commission Comprehensive Plan Subcommittee chose to continue with these categories with this plan. With each category, there is a description of the current situation, which is then followed by the goals, objectives and strategies for this five-year cycle of planning for the county.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 6

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 7

II. Location and Geography

A. Regional Perspective Tazewell County is located in the north central portion of southwestern Virginia. The county lies within the valley and ridge province of the Appalachian Mountains on the southeast with the Cumberland Plateau and Allegheny Mountains on the northeast. Tazewell County is bordered by West Virginia on the north, Buchanan County and Russell County on the west, Smyth County on the south and Bland County on the east. It is one of four counties that comprise the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. Tazewell County is 520-square miles (the 20th largest out of 95 Counties and 39 Independent Cities in Virginia) and represents 27.5 percent of the total land area of the district.

B. Topography and Geography Topographic features of Tazewell County are shown on the geographic features map. Elevation in the valley areas of the county ranges from 1,900 feet in the western and southeastern areas to 2,763 in the east central areas. The county is dissected by streams, and the presence of sinkholes that are the trademark of karst topography which gives the landscape its uneven relief pattern. Surface features range from sloping to hilly and steep with comparatively small areas of smooth and gently rolling sections across the county.

The mountain ridges range in elevation from 2,500 to 4,500 feet, though there are irregular peaks that are considerably higher. The ridges are penetrated by narrow, deep waterways that are sourced near the mountain summits. The mountainous terrain in the county creates innumerable scenic vistas for both residents and visitors in Tazewell County. The highly rugged character of the land also makes infrastructure and structural development difficult and expensive in many areas of the county. Much of the county’s land remains as forested uplands with agricultural production a principle land use for the hill and valley areas.

Figure 2.1 Tazewell County Woodland Uses

U.S. Census of Agriculture, 2007.

Year Woodland (acres)

Pastured Non-Pastured 1982 14,008 26,710 1987 16,560 23,271 1992 18,830 23,615 1997 15,483 32,445 2002 16,818 23,426 2007 15,797 23,140

II. Location and Geography

A. Regional Perspective

Tazewell County is located in the north central portion of southwestern Virginia, The county lies within the valley and ridge province of the Appalachian Mountains on the southeast with the Cumberland Plateau and Allegheny Mountains on the northeast. Tazewell County is bordered by West Virginia on the north, Buchanan County and Russell County on the west, Smyth County on the south and Bland County on the east. It is one of four counties that comprise the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. Tazewell County is 520-square miles (the 20th largest out of 95 Counties and 39 Independent Cities in Virginia) and represents 27.5 percent of the total land area of the district.

B. Topography and Geography

Topographic features of Tazewell County are shown on the geographic features map. Elevation in the valley areas of the county ranges from 1,900 feet in the western and southeastern areas to 2,763 in the east central areas, The county is dissected by streams, and the presence of sinkholes that are the pe its uneven relief pattern. Surface features

trademark of karst topography which gives the lan range from sloping to hilly and st sections across the county.

ep with comparatively small areas of smooth and gently rolling

The mountain ridges range in elevation from 2,500 to 4,500 feet, though ther are considerably higher. The ridges are penetrated by narrow, deep waterways that are sourced near the mountain summi istas for both residents and visitors in Tazewell County. The highly rugged character of the land also makes infrastructure and structural development difficult and expensive in many areas of the county. Much of the county’s land remains as forested uplands with agricultural production a principle land use for the hill and valley areas.

we irregular peaks that

The mountainous terrain in the county creates innumerable scenic

Figure 2.1 Tazewell County Woodland Uses Woodland (acres) Year Pastured Non-Pastured

1982 14,008 26,710 1987, 16,560 23,271 1992 18,830 23,615 1997 15,483 32,445 2002 16,818 23,426 2007 15,797 23,140

U.S. Census of Agriculture, 2007.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 8

Figure 2.2 Tazewell County Digital Elevation Model

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 9

Burkes Garden is a unique feature in Tazewell County and is Virginia’s largest rural historic district.
The 32,000-acre oval-shaped basin is located in the eastern part of the county. The rock layers that formed this basin were once a great dome. The basin was created by geologic erosion to point that just a rim of hard rock was left surrounding the basin floor of water-soluble layers of limestone. Burkes Garden is home to the largest contiguous area of smooth uplands in the county.

The watersheds and fault lines of the county are shown in Figure 2.2.
Geology is a significant factor in the development patterns of Tazewell County. The county has two distinct geological variations: the Appalachian Ridge and Valley Province in the northeastern and southwestern portions of the county, and the Appalachian Plateau Province in the western area of the county.

The Appalachian Ridge and Valley Province has various rock formations following the narrow bands of ridges and corresponding valleys. Limestone and dolomite with intermittent shale are the predominant rock types in the valley floors and mountain flanks, while weather-resistant hard sandstone strata form the ridge crests. The arrangement of hard and soft rocks in alternate formation accounts for the various elongated ridges and the position of most streams in the county. The limestone beds have provided the richest agricultural soils and the most important groundwater aquifers. They also are driving creators of the county’s caverns and associated karst topography. This combination of rock and soil suitability has targeted this area for development as well as rich agricultural uses in these areas of the county. However, these geological features are severe limiting factors for the building environment of commercial, industrial, and residential development in the county.

The western section of the county has a distinct and abrupt geological and physiological change in landscape due to its location in the Appalachian Plateau Province. This area is characterized by steep mountains with narrow, winding valley floors. The rock layers that define the plateau lie relatively flat and have been deeply dissected by historic stream drainage erosion. This portion of the county is divided into two distinct areas by the St. Clair, Boissevain and Richlands Fault System. This is coal- bearing land and has long been dominated by the coal extraction industry.

Burkes Garden is a unique feature in Tazewell County and is Virginia’s largest rural historic district The 32,000-acre oval-shaped basin is located in the eastern part of the county. The rock layers that formed this basin were once a great dome. The basin was created by geologic erosion to point that just a rim of hard rock was left surrounding the basin floor of water-soluble layers of limestone. Burkes Garden is home to the largest contiguous area of smooth uplands in the county.

The watersheds and fault lines of the county are shown in Figure 2.2. Geology is a significant factor in the development patterns of Tazewell County. The county has two distinct geological variations: the Appalachian Ridge and Valley Province in the northeastern and southwestern portions of the county, and the Appalachian Plateau Province in the western area of the county.

The Appalachian Ridge and Valley Province has various rock formations following the narrow bands of ridges and corresponding valleys. Limestone and dolomite with intermittent shale are the predominant rock types in the valley floors and mountain flanks, while weather-resistant hard sandstone strata form the ridge crests. ‘The arrangement of hard and soft rocks in alternate formation accounts for the various elongated ridges and the position of most streams in the county. The limestone beds have provided the richest agricultural soils and the most important groundwater aquifers. They also are driving creators of the county’s caverns and associated karst topography. This combination of rock and soil suitability has targeted this area for development as well as rich agricultural uses in these areas of the county. However, these geological features are severe limiting factors for the building environment of commercial, industrial, and residential development in the county.

The western section of the county has a distinct and abrupt geological and physiological change in landscape due to its location in the Appalachian Plateau Province. This area is characterized by steep mountains with narrow, winding valley floors. The rock layers that define the plateau lie relatively flat and have been deeply dissected by historic stream drainage erosion. This portion of the county is divided into two distinct areas by the St, Clair, Boissevain and Richlands Fault System. This is coal- bearing land and has long been dominated by the coal extraction _ industry.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 9

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 10

Figure 2.3

Watersheds and Fault Lines of Tazewell County

Figure 2.3

Watersheds and Fault Lines of Tazewell County

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 11

III. Background and Demographics

A. Historic Development Patterns Formed from the counties of Russell and Wythe, Tazewell County was named in honor of Senator Henry Tazewell who made the motion to create the county. Chartered on December 19, 1799, Tazewell County is governed by a Board of Supervisors composed of five representatives, one elected from each magisterial district, who then appoint a county administrator. There are five incorporated towns within its boundaries: Bluefield, Cedar Bluff, Pocahontas, Richlands, and Tazewell.

In order to look forward and plan for future development and community enhancement, it is critical to assess historic trends and cultural influences that affect how a community has grown and developed to date. Tazewell County has a rich history in westward expansion and it’s more recent growth patterns and statistics have greatly influenced the use of resources and delivery of services to citizens of the county. This section attempts to provide a brief history of the development of the county and provide general demographic change information that impacts the opportunities and challenges to land use and preservation.

Before the arrival of European settlers in North America, the region now known as Tazewell County was hunting grounds for the Cherokee and Shawnee Indians. As was stated earlier in the Plan, the Woodland Indians who were the initial settlers of this area had long departed the land. Less than 150 years after the first European colony was established in Jamestown, settlers began to explore the present region of southwestern Virginia. Since it was bountiful with large herds of deer, elk, buffalo, and other game, this area of the state was exploited by professional hunters who exported animal pelts from the area to Europe.

The first recorded land survey in Tazewell County was completed in 1749 when the area was part of Augusta County. Operating under the name of The Woods River Company (formed by James Patton), James Burke led a survey party into what is today Burke’s Garden. The survey recorded the area of that portion of the county as 4,400 acres, but today the area is known to be more than 32,000 acres. The same surveying expedition mapped the headwaters of the Clinch River and it is presumed that they reached the Bluestone and Abbs Valley. Their records show that they reached Maiden Spring and surveyed Dry Branch near Elk Garden in what is now Russell County.

Early settlement of what became Tazewell County was slow due to the distance from the great migration road westward and also due to the hostile encounters with Indians in this area. Population figures of 1800, during the county’s formation, show it as significantly less populated than surrounding jurisdictions. Even into the early 19th century development of the county was hampered by the difficulty in securing clear title to land due to the large-scale land speculation of the times.

Ill. Background and Demographics

A. Historic Development Patterns

Formed from the counties of Russell and Wythe, Tazewell County was named in honor of Senator Henry Tazewell who made the motion to create the county. Chartered on December 19, 1799, Tazewell County is governed by a Board of Supervisors composed of five representatives, one elected from each magisterial district, who then appoint a county administrator. There are five incorporated towns within its boundaries: Bluefield, Cedar Bluff, Pocahontas, Richlands, and Tazewell.

In order to look forward and plan for future development and community enhancement, itis critical to assess historic trends and cultural influences that affect how a community has grown and developed to date. Tazewell County has a rich history in westward expansion and it’s more recent growth patterns and statistics have greatly influenced the use of resources and delivery of services to citizens of the county. This section attempts to provide a brief history of the development of the county and provide general demographic change information that impacts the opportunities and challenges to land use and preservation.

Early settlement of what became Tazewell County was slow due to the distance from the great migration road westward and also due to the hostile encounters with Indians in this area. Population figures of 1800, during the county’s formation, show it as significantly less populated than surrounding jurisdictions. Even into the early 19" century development of the county was hampered by the difficulty in securing clear title to land due to the large-scale land speculation of the times.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan i

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 12

Tazewell County’s pioneer past forms a tradition that is a continued source of pride for the current residents and is reflected in the large number of historic sites in and around the county. The link to pioneer and Indian ancestors is strong and reflected in monuments and museum exhibits and holdings.

B. Demographics and Background Population growth and diversity trends are key elements to understanding and implementing planning principles and strategies. Understanding and predicting the future trends in the demographics of Tazewell County are central to determining how and why particular land use strategies will be successful in this community. In the same way the geography and climate affect land use decision, the diversity and growth trends of the population can dramatically influence how land is used and what will be sustainable and successful strategies of maximizing resources and protecting valued assets within the county.

As the population change table shows (Figure 3.1), the entire Cumberland Plateau Planning District (CPPD) lost population each decade since 1980. The state, however, has continued to grow at a steady pace indicating that Tazewell County and the surrounding area are not keeping pace with the Virginia population growth trends. Though there may not be a desire to keep pace with the growth of Virginia’s urban centers in the northern portions of the state, the loss of population over time is a detriment to economic and community development for any community. Understanding these population losses and how to address them will be a critical factor in achieving a sustainable economic model for the county.

B. Demographics and Background

Population growth and diversity trends are key elements to understanding and implementing planning principles and strategies. Understanding and predicting the future trends in the demographics of Tazewell County are central to determining how and why particular land use strategies will be successful in this community. In the same way the geography and climate affect land use decision, the diversity and growth trends of the population can dramatically influence how land is used and what will be sustainable and successful strategies of maximizing resources and protecting valued assets within the county,

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 12

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 13

Figure 3.1

Population Change from 1970 – 2012

PLACE 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2012

Tazewell County 39,816 50,511 45,960 44,598 45,078 44,268

CPPD 112,497 140,067 123,580 118,279 113,976 112,262

Virginia 4,648,494 5,346,818 6,187,358 7,078,515 8,001,024 8,185,867

2010 US Census Bureau *July 1, 2012 US Census Bureau estimate

The density and diversity of population is also a relevant factor for any community development strategy and assessment. Tazewell County has a primarily white population, with minority groups totaling less than five percent of the overall population. Though this number is low compared to state (just under 29 percent) and national (nearly 22 percent) averages, Tazewell County has the highest minority population in the planning district.

Due to the geography and historic westward advancement travel routes, Tazewell County’s population is not uniformly distributed. The average number of people per square mile is about 86.9 (a decrease from the 2000 census average of 87.5), but this does not reflect actual density across the county. As the population density map indicates (Figure 3.2), people live in and around the towns within the county and along major transportation routes.

Figure 3.1 Population Change from 1970 — 2012

PLACE 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2012

Tazewell County 39,816 50,511 45,960 44,598 45,078 44,268 PPD 112,497 | 140,067 | 123,580 | 118,279 | 113,976 | 112,262 Virginia 4,048,494 | 5,346,818 | 6,187,358 | 7,078,515 | 8,001,024 | 8,185,867

2010 US Census Bureau *July 1, 2012 US Census Bureau estimate

The density and diversity of population is also a relevant factor for any community development strategy and assessment. Tazewell County has a primarily white population, with minority groups totaling less than five percent of the overall population, Though this number is low compared to state (just under 29 percent) and national (nearly 22 percent) averages, Tazewell County has the highest minority population in the planning district.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 1B

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 14

Figure 3.2

Tazewell County Population Density by District in 2010

Figure 3.2

Tazewell County Population Density by District in 2010

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 15

Tazewell County’s gender split is relatively equal with 49.4 percent male and 50.6 percent female.
The age distribution of the population is not as even in Tazewell County. Tazewell County has a large working age population with approximately 48 percent of the people in the county are between 20 and 59 years old.

Figure 3.3 Age Distribution in Tazewell County

AGE

Tazewell County Virginia United States

2000

2010

% of Total Population

in 2010

% of Total Population in 2010

% of Total Population in

2010

Under 5 years 2,359 2,325 5.2 6.4 6.5

5 - 17 years 7,206 6,850 15.2 16.8 17.5

18 - 64 years 28,114 28,146 62.4 64.6 63.0

65 yrs & over 6,919 7,757 17.2 12.2 13.0

Median Age (yrs) 40.7 43.2 NA 37.5* 37.2*

Males 18+ yrs 16,468 17,618 39.1 37.2 36.9

Females 18 + yrs 18,565 18,285 40.6 39.6 39.1

United States Census Bureau 2010 *not a percentage, this is actual median age for 2010 in Virginia and the United States

The Age Distribution table (Figure 3.3) shows that Tazewell County’s population is aging in place.
Losses in population from 2000 to 2010 are evident in the under 18 age groups. Of significant note is the comparison of the median age in Tazewell (43.2 years) to that of Virginia and the US, both near the 37-year median mark. Unless there is a growth in the numbers of children and young adults over the next decade, this median age differential will continue to grow and the workforce population will begin to drift away from state and national averages as well.

Quality of life is always at the core of all community development and planning. Assessing quality is not always an easy process. Each locality has various goals and benchmarks to measure progress in targeted areas of development and service. How these goals translate into higher or sustained quality of life for citizens is not always a direct correlation and in many cases, the impact is felt long after investments in programs and infrastructure are made.

Tazewell County’s gender split is relatively equal with 49.4 percent male and 50.6 percent female. The age distribution of the population is not as even in Tazewell County. Tazewell County has a large working age population with approximately 48 percent of the people in the county are between 20 and

59 years old. Figure 3.3 Age Distribution in Tazewell County Tazewell County Vir; United States AGE % of Total % of Total % of Total

Population Population in 2010 Population in

2000 | 2010 in 2010 2010 Under 5 years 2359 | 2,325 32 64 65

3-17 years 6.850 152 168 175 18 - 64 years 28,114 28,146 62.4 64.6 63.0 65 yrs & over 6,919 7,757 17.2 12.2 13.0 ‘Median Age (yrs) 40.7 42 NA 37.5" 37.2 Males 18+ yrs 16,468 17,618 39.1 37.2 36.9 Females 18+ yrs | 18,565 | 18.285 406 39.6 391

United States Census Bureau 2010 *not a percentage, this is actual median age for 2010 in Virginia and the United States

‘The Age Distribution table (Figure 3.3) shows that Tazewell County’s population is aging in place. Losses in population from 2000 to 2010 are evident in the under 18 age groups. Of significant note is the comparison of the median age in Tazewell (43.2 years) to that of Virginia and the US, both near the 37-year median mark, Unless there is a growth in the numbers of children and young adults over the next decade, this median age differential will continue to grow and the workforce population will begin to drift away from state and national averages as well.

investments in programs and infrastructure are made.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 15

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 16

Income and access to services are considered important measures of quality of life for individuals and families. The ability to rent or own a home and maintain it is also an important measure of how well citizens of a locality are thriving. Though these measures are not the only factors in quality of life, they merit assessment and correlation for Tazewell County in relationship to the types and impact of investment in services and infrastructure by public and private sources.

Figure 3.4 Median Family Income:

County, State and National Comparison

Place 1990 2000 2010 2011 Percent Change

from 2000 to 2011

Tazewell County 25,535 33,732 43,428 45,559 35.06%

Cumberland Plateau Planning District ---------- 30,901 40,670 42,469 37.44%

Virginia 38,213 54,169 73,514 75,962 40.23%

United States 35,225 50,046 62,982 64,293 28.47%

U.S. Census Bureau, 1990, 2000, and 2010. U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2010 American Community Survey. U.S. Census Bureau, 2007-2011 American Community Survey.

Though it is clear that Tazewell is below the median family income average of both the US and Virginia, the percent increase shows the county keeping relative pace with the state (Figure 3.4). The cost of living in Tazewell County is lower than many other areas of the state and with income levels still growing, the county residents are likely to be seeing that reflected as increases in spending power and investment opportunities. However, as in most rural areas, transportation costs are higher and almost exclusively born by individuals and families. With the significant increase in oil prices, this factor alone can be a dramatic impact on a family income balance. These are crucial factors of consideration for enhancing quality of life for individuals and families.
Figure 3.5 shows a comparison of median household income between Tazewell County residents and those in the rest of the state and with the nation. Tazewell County’s household income is roughly 60 percent of the median household income of the state and 72 percent of that of the United States. The US Census defines a family as consisting of two or more people (one of whom is the householder) related by birth, marriage, or adoption residing in the same housing unit. A household consists of all people who occupy a housing unit regardless of relationship, whether it is a singular individualliving alone or multiple unrelated individuals or families living together. Family income has traditionally

Figure 3.4 Median Family Income: County, State and National Comparison

Percent Change

Place 1990 2000 2010 2011 | from 2000 to 2011

Tazewell County 25,535 33,732 43,428 45,559 35.06%

‘Cumberland Plateau

30,901 40,670 42,469 37.48% Planning District Virginia 38.213 34,169 73514 75,962 40.23% United States 35,225 50,046 62,982 64293 2BAT%

U.S. Census Bureau, 1990, 2000, and 2010. U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2010 American Community Survey. U.S. Census Bureau, 2007-2011 American Community Survey.

Though it is clear that Tazewell is below the median family income average of both the US and Virginia,

the percent increase shows the county keeping relative

pace with the state (Figure 3.4). The cost of living in

Tazewell County is lower than many other areas of

the state and with income levels still growing, the

county residents are likely to be seeing that reflected

as increases in spending power and investment

opportunities. However, as in most rural areas,

transportation costs are higher and almost exclusively

born by individuals and families. With the significant

increase in oil prices, this factor alone can be a

dramatic impact on a family income balance. These

are crucial factors of consideration for enhancing

quality of life for individuals and families.

Figure 3.5 shows a comparison of median household income between Tazewell County residents and those in the rest of the state and with the nation, Tazewell County’s household income is roughly 60 percent of the median household income of the state and 72 percent of that of the United States. The US Census defines a family as consisting of two or more people (one of whom is the householder) related by birth, marriage, or adoption residing in the same housing unit. A household consists of all people who occupy a housing unit regardless of relationship, whether it is a singular individualliving

alone or multiple unrelated individuals or families living together. Family income has traditionally

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 16

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 17

been considered the more reliable measure of median income when making such comparisons.
However, with the rise of unmarried housing partners, this figure must be tracked and assessed now and into the future. Tazewell County did see a large percentage increase in these figures within just a four year period with a nearly 4 percent increase from 2000 to 2010.

Figure 3.5 Median Household Income:

County, State and National Comparison

Location 1990 2000 2010 2011

Percent Change

from 2000 to 2011

Tazewell County 19,670 27,304 35,485 36,521 33.76%

Cumberland Plateau Planning District ---------- 25,504 33,699 33,816 32.59%

Virginia 33,328 46,677 60,665 60,665 29.97%

United States 30,056 41,994 50,046 50,429 20.09%

U.S. Census Bureau, 1990, 2000. U.S. Census Bureau, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) Program, November 2011. U.S. Census Bureau, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) Program, December 2012.

Health care coverage is another emerging category that local, state and national governments are taking a closer look at in this decade. The health and welfare of citizens is in no small measure dependent on access to quality and affordable health care for the care of illness and injury as well as wellness care.
Tazewell County is in between the state and national averages for uninsured rates for children and youth under 18 years old with just 7.5 percent of this population uninsured in the county. The adult population rate is above the state rate with 17.1 percent of adults uninsured in the county and 14.8 percent of adults uninsured in the state. Both of these figures are below the national average of 17.7 percent.

Figure 3.6 Health Insurance Coverage, 2010

Place

Under Age 65 Under Age 18

Insured # Uninsured

% Uninsured # Insured # Uninsured

% Uninsured

Tazewell 29,980 6,188 17.1 8,868 724 7.5

Virginia 5,817,583 1,009,466 14.8 1,787,955 133,975 7.0

US 215,846,576 46,556,803 17.7 70,462,624 6,505,941 8.5

Model-based Small Health Insurance Estimates for Counties and States US Census Bureau, 2010.

been considered the more reliable measure of median income when making such comparisons. However, with the rise of unmarried housing partners, this figure must be tracked and assessed now and into the future, Tazewell County did see a large percentage increase in these figures within just a four year period with a nearly 4 percent increase from 2000 to 2010.

Figure 3.5 Median Household Income: County, State and National Comparison

Percent Change

Location 1990 2000 2010 2011 from 2000 to 2011 Tazewell County 19,670 27,304 35,485 36,521 33.16% ‘Cumberland Plateau Planning District - 25,504 33,699 33,816 32.59% Virginia 33,328 46,677 60,665 60,665 29.97% United States’ 30,056 41,994 30,046 50,429 20.09%

US. Census Bureau, 1990, 2000. U.S. Census Bureau, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) Program, November 2011. U.S. Census Bureau, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) Program, December 2012.

Health care coverage is another emerging category that local, state and national governments are taking a closer look at in this decade. The health and welfare of citizens is in no small measure dependent on access to quality and affordable health care for the care of illness and injury as well as wellness care. Tazewell County is in between the state and national averages for uninsured rates for children and youth under 18 years old with just 7.5 percent of this population uninsured in the county. The adult population rate is above the state rate with 17.1 percent of adults uninsured in the county and 14.8 percent of adults uninsured in the state, Both of these figures are below the national average of 17.7 percent.

Figure 3.6 Health Insurance Coverage, 2010 Under Age 65 Under Age 18 Place % %

Insured #Uninsured | Uninsured | # Insured | # Uninsured | Uninsured

Tazewell 29,980 6.188 171 8868 724 75 Virginia 5,817,583 1,009,466 148 [1,787,955 133,975 7.0 US 215,846,576 | 46,556,803 17.7 | 70,462,624 | 6,505,941 85

‘Model-based Small Health Insurance Estimates for Counties and States US Census Bureau, 2010.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 18

Tazewell County has recently constructed a premier Community Facilities Building. The new 31,682 square foot facility is strategically located at 253 Chamber Drive, Tazewell, Virginia and is visible from U. S. Route 19-460. Prior to the construction of the new Community Facilities Building, the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors and the Industrial Development Authority recognized the need to improve accessibility to government services within the locality. They partnered together to provide a highly secure, yet accessible facility that would also have ample parking in a less congested part of town.

The new state-of- the- art Community Facilities Building will allow the locality to consolidate the services of the Department of Social Services and the Virginia Department of Health under one roof which will eliminate the need for clients to travel to several different locations for the services they seek. The mission of the County of Tazewell is to effectively seek opportunities to improve the quality of life for the citizens. The true worth of this facility cannot be measured in dollars. The lasting value and underlying importance is the power of partnership to provide improved services to the community.

As the above demographic and historic data shows (Figure 3.6), Tazewell County is a dynamic area of Southwest Virginia with many challenges and opportunities as the county continues to shift economically and demographically. The need for careful planning and thoughtful evaluation of the historic trends and projections are very important for the county. This assessment of data is a critical first step in developing a strong and logical road map for the future of Tazewell County.

C. Housing Patterns and Structures Housing is one of the most basic needs (shelter) in an individual’s life. Physically, socially, and economically, housing plays an important part in the well-being of individuals as well as families, and the community. Unsafe, unsanitary, and inadequate housing can affect local residents’ physical, social, economic, and emotional well-being. Planning for safe and attractive communities is an important role of local government and a diverse and aesthetically pleasing housing stock is at the heart of such vibrant and growing communities.

The coal boom years of the 1970s created growth in the number of houses built in Tazewell County at that time. Tazewell County’s housing growth during this period surpassed that of the state, and the population growth as well as incomes of the time supported this growth. From 1980 to 1990, population in Tazewell County decreased as did the average household size. Housing values did increase slightly during this time and the county maintained the highest average housing value ($48,600) in 1990 within the Cumberland Plateau Planning District. This was 53 percent of the state’s $90,400 average house value in 1990.

‘Tazewell County has recently constructed a premier Community Facilities Building. The new 31,682 square foot facility is strategically located at 253 Chamber Drive, Tazewell, Virginia and is visible from U. S. Route 19-460. Prior to the construction of the new Community Facilities Building, the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors and the Industrial Development Authority recognized the need to improve accessibility to government services within the locality. They partnered together to provide ahighly secure, yet accessible facility that would also have ample parking in a less congested part of town.

C. Housing Patterns and Structures

Housing is one of the most basic needs (shelter) in an individual’s life. Physically, socially, and economically, housing plays an important part in the well-being of individuals as well as families, and the community. Unsafe, unsanitary, and inadequate housing can affect local residents’ physical, social, economic, and emotional well-being. Planning for safe and attractive communities is an important role of local government and a diverse and aesthetically pleasing housing stock is at the heart of such vibrant and growing communities.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 18

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 19

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Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 20

The population centers in Tazewell County are in the towns of Tazewell, Cedar Bluff, Richlands, Pocahontas, Bluefield, and the communities of Claypool Hill and Raven. The housing stock found throughout the county includes both single family and multi-family housing options. Figure 4.4 shows the breakdown of owner and renter-occupied housing units as well as the median values from 1990 to 2011. The 2011 Census Bureau estimates show an increase in the median value of owner-occupied houses to $84,900 in Tazewell County. This value is approximately 33 percent of the state median of $254,600. I comparison, the 2000 Census Data showed Tazewell County’s mean home value being 54% of the State value. Tazewell County was surpassed in housing value in 2000 by Russell County in the planning district, and continues to be with a median housing value of $89,000 by the latest census bureau estimates.

In 1990 Tazewell County had 566 housing units that lacked complete plumbing facilities. This was a major improvement of the 1970 number of 3,729 housing units lacking facilities. The county has continued to improve on this important housing measure to an estimated 143 housing units that lacked complete plumbing facilities in 2011. Given that nearly 33 percent of the housing structures in Tazewell County were built before 1960, the maintenance and rehabilitation of these older structures to provide adequate plumbing facilities is clearly evident in this area. Less than six percent of housing in the county has been built since 2000, as the rate of construction slowed dramatically from 2000 to 2011 (3.9% constructed in the years of 2000-2004, and 1.5% constructed in 2005 or later). Because housing growth is such an important indicator of economic stability and can even be used as a stimulus to economic development, this slowing of housing construction must be critically analyzed.

Affordable Housing As stated earlier, Figure 3.7 shows the breakdown of owner and renter occupation in Tazewell County.
The median mortgage and rent figures are important indicators of how incomes are keeping up with costs within a community. These costs are defined by the US Census to include mortgages, taxes, house protection-related insurances, fees (such as homeowner association fees), utilities, and home improvement fees (averaged annually based on the value and age of the home). Even with a median household income of $36,521, Tazewell County still is considered a “livable community” because this income can still support the median mortgage costs using 30 percent of total income or less (29.6 percent in Tazewell County). Affordable housing is defined by the U.S. Housing and Urban Department as housing for which the occupant is paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. When housing costs grow beyond 30 percent of a household income, it has been shown to be an unsustainable economic situation for most families and individuals.

Tazewell County offers an enviable cost of living compared to state averages. In Virginia, the average Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment is $890. In order to afford this level or rent following the 30 percent of income rule, a household must earn $2,967 per month, or $35,604 annually. This translates roughly to a $17.12/hour full-time wage earner. The comparative FMR for Tazewell County is $626, requiring a household income of $25,040. This is nearly $11,500 LESS than the median household income for the county. Full-time wage earners earning the regional average wage of $12.04/hour can afford the two-bedroom FMR rate as well. For citizens on a fixed monthly

The population centers in Tazewell County are in the towns of Tazewell, Cedar Bluff, Richlands, Pocahontas, Bluefield, and the communities of Claypool Hill and Raven. The housing stock found throughout the county includes both single family and multi-family housing options. Figure 4.4 shows the breakdown of owner and renter-occupied housing units as well as the median values from 1990 to 2011, The 2011 Census Bureau estimates show an increase in the median value of owner-occupied houses to $84,900 in Tazewell County, This value is approximately 33 percent of the state median of $254,600. I comparison, the 2000 Census Data showed Tazewell County’s mean home value being 54% of the State value. ‘Tazewell County was surpassed in housing value in 2000 by Russell County in the planning district, and continues to be with a median housing value of $89,000 by the latest census bureau estimates.

In 1990 Tazewell County had 566 housing units that lacked complete plumbing facilities. This was a major improvement of the 1970 number of 3,729 housing units lacking facilities. The county has continued to improve on this important housing measure to an estimated 143 housing units that lacked complete plumbing facilities in 2011. Given that nearly 33 percent of the housing structures in ‘Tazewell County were built before 1960, the maintenance and rehabilitation of these older structures to provide adequate plumbing facilities is clearly evident in this area. Less than six percent of housing in the county has been built since 2000, as the rate of construction slowed dramatically from 2000 to 2011 (3.9% constructed in the years of 2000-2004, and 1.5% constructed in 2005 or later). Because housing growth is such an important indicator of economic stability and can even be used as a stimulus to economic development, this slowing of housing construction must be critically analyzed.

Affordable Housing

As stated earlier, Figure 3.7 shows the breakdown of owner and renter occupation in Tazewell County. ‘The median mortgage and rent figures are important indicators of how incomes are keeping up with costs within a community. These costs are defined by the US Census to include mortgages, taxes, house protection-related insurances, fees (such as homeowner association fees), utilities, and home improvement fees (averaged annually based on the value and age of the home). Even with a median household income of $36,521, Tazewell County still is considered a “livable community” because this income can still support the median mortgage costs using 30 percent of total income or less (29.6 percent in Tazewell County). Affordable housing is defined by the U.S. Housing and Urban Department as housing for which the occupant is paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. When housing costs grow beyond 30 percent of a household income, it has been shown to be an unsustainable economic situation for most families and individuals.

Tazewell County offers an enviable cost of living compared to state averages. In Virginia, the average Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment is $890. In order to afford this level or rent following the 30 percent of income rule, a household must ear $2,967 per month, or $35,604 annually. This translates roughly to a $17.12/hour full-time wage earner. The comparative FMR for Tazewell County is $626, requiring a household income of $25,040. This is nearly $11,500 LESS than the median household income for the county, Full-time wage earners earning the regional average wage of $12.04/hour can afford the two-bedroom FMR rate as well. For citizens on a fixed monthly

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 20

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 21

Supplemental Security Income (SSI), however, even Tazewell County’s single-bedroom FMR of $528 is not affordable by the 30 percent of income rule.

Subsidized and Assisted Housing Programs Subsidized housing is available to residents of the county who meet income and/or age requirements.
Elderly, as well as family housing developments, funded through the USDA’s Rural Development Program, are located in the towns of Richlands and Tazewell. Figure 4.5 shows the type and number of units in each bedroom category available through the housing subsidization program known as Section 8 housing. Additionally, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development has assisted the Cumberland Plateau Regional Housing Authority to develop and operate three complexes in the county (the bottom three listed in Figure 4.5). Waiting lists exist as all of these facilities and several are undergoing renovations to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility issues of residents.

Figure 3.8 Subsidized Housing Properties in Tazewell County

Rental Property Location Complex Type Units Bedrooms* Renter out of pocket costs

Hunters Ridge Apartments

Richlands Family 48 1-24 2-24

30% of adjusted monthly income

Oxford Square Apartments

Richlands Family 87 1-31 2-56

30% of adjusted monthly income

Aspen Square Apartments

Tazewell Family 60 1-60

30% of adjusted monthly income

Sierra Springs Apartments

Tazewell Family 36 1-16 2-20

30% of adjusted monthly income

Tazewell Square Apartments

Tazewell Family 56 1-24 2-32

30% of adjusted monthly income

Crescent View Apartments

Bluefield Family 106 1-18 2-34 3-54

30% of adjusted monthly income

Indian Princess Pocahontas

Pocahontas Family 34 N/A N/A

Graham Manor Bluefield Elderly/Disabled

30 N/A N/A

Fairfax Court Richlands Elderly/Disabled

34 N/A N/A

*Numbers to left of the hyphen indicated number of bedrooms, to the right is number of units of this type Sources: MFH Rental (USDA RD) Property Website; Property management companies

Housing assistance is also available through the state and federal government for purchasing, refinancing, and repairing homes of residents of Tazewell County. The county is one of seven Southwestern Virginian counties designated as a Federal Target Area. This allows local residents the opportunity to apply for a lower-interest rate mortgage from the Virginia Housing and Development Authority (VHDA). This regulation also allows first-time home buyer regulations to be waived.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI), however, even Tazewell County’s single-bedroom FMR of $528 is not affordable by the 30 percent of income rule.

Subsidized and Assisted Housing Programs Subsidized housing is available to residents of the county who meet income and/or age requirements. Elderly, as well as family housing developments, funded through the USDA’s Rural Development Program, are located in the towns of Richlands and Tazewell. Figure 4.5 shows the type and number of units in each bedroom category available through the housing subsidization program known as Section 8 housing. Additionally, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development has assisted the Cumberland Plateau Regional Housing Authority to develop and operate three complexes in the county (the bottom three listed in Figure 4.5). Waiting lists exist as all of these facilities and several are undergoing renovations to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility issues of residents

*Numbers to left of the hyphen indicated number of bedrooms, to the right is number of units of this type Sources: MFH Rental (USDA RD) Property Website; Property management companies

Housing assistance is also available through the state and federal government for purchasing, refinancing, and repairing homes of residents of Tazewell County. The county is one of seven Southwestern Virginian counties designated as a Federal Target Area, This allows local residents the opportunity to apply for a lower-interest rate mortgage from the Virginia Housing and Development Authority (VHDA). This regulation also allows first-time home buyer regulations to be waived.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 21

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 22

Weatherization, utility assistance, heating and cooling, and emergency home repair services are provided by two service organizations in the region. The Weatherization Program and the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement Program are operated by Clinch Valley Community Action. Both are designed to assist eligible low-income residents in Tazewell County to reduce energy loss in their homes through such installations as attic insulation, heating system inspection, window and wall sealing, and insulation. The Emergency Home Repair Program is funded by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and locally administered by the Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens. This program provides repairs or makes minor modifications to homes of low-income persons. These repairs focus on the areas of plumbing, electrical, roof repair and replacement, heating, and installation of such modifications as wheelchair ramps, hand railings, grab bars, and doorway widening. Cooling assistance is also available to eligible individuals through the Department of Social Services, Clinch Valley Community Action, and the Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens. The Virginia Water Project provides assistance to eligible citizens in the county who need wells dug, septic systems installed, septic system maintenance and repair, water tanks, or tap fees. Clinch Valley Community Action administers this program as well as the Indoor Plumbing Program that assists eligible residents who need indoor bathrooms.

Assisted Living and Nursing Homes Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) are non-medical residential settings that provide or coordinate personal and health care services, 24-hour supervision, and assistance for the care of adults who are aged, infirmed or disabled. Nursing homes, on the other hand, have the primary function of the provision, on a continuing basis, of nursing services and health-related services for the treatment of inpatient care. Tazewell County residents have access to both types of facilities throughout the county and region.

The ALF gives residents an opportunity to remain as independent as possible. The services provided at these facilities vary across the country, however, most provide graduated access to services that can be used by residents as they need them. Some provide nursing home care within the facility as well.
Supervision, congregate meals, and recreational activities are available to all residents at all ALF’s located in Tazewell County.

Tazewell County residents who can no longer live safely in their own homes and need access to continuous care and medical attention have options for residential care in nursing homes in the county and the region. The facilities available locally are highlighted in the chart on the next page (Figure 3.9).

Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) are non-medical residential settings that provide or coordinate personal and health care services, 24-hour supervision, and assistance for the care of adults who are aged, infirmed or disabled. Nursing homes, on the other hand, have the primary function of the provision, on a continuing basis, of nursing services and health-related services for the treatment of inpatient care. Tazewell County residents have access to both types of facilities throughout the county and region.

The ALF gives residents an opportunity to remain as independent as possible. The services provided at these facilities vary across the country, however, most provide graduated access to services that can be used by residents as they need them. Some provide nursing home care within the facility as well. Supervision, congregate meals, and recreational activities are available to all residents at all ALF’s located in Tazewell County.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 22

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 23

Figure 3.9 Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in Tazewell County

Assisted Living

Facilities Location Type of Facility Number of Beds

Westwood Center Bluefield Non-Ambulatory Residential Assisted Living Care

Mayfair House Cedar Bluff Non-Ambulatory Residential Assisted Living Care

Golden Age
Assisted Living

Cedar Bluff Non-Ambulatory Residential Assisted Living Care Special Care

Nursing Homes Location Ownership/Hospital Based Number of Certified Beds

Heritage Hall Tazewell For-profit Corporation/No 180

Westwood Bluefield For-profit Corporation/No 65

Source: Virginia Department of Social Services Web Assisted Living Facility Search Virginia Department of Health Directory of Long Term Care Facilities, Nov. 2012.

Housing

Summary of Needs and Opportunities

Tazewell County saw steady and at times dramatic growth through the early 1900s. This growth stalled after a 1950 high of 47,512 that marked the turning point toward population decline through 1970, which logged in a population for the County of 39,816. The coal boom in the 1970s spurred a time of dramatic growth of nearly 27 percent with an all-time high in population reached for the county of 50,511. After 1980, the population of Tazewell County declined through the 2006 census estimate documenting 44,608 as the total number of people living in the county (not a statistically significant change from the 2000 figure of 44,598). Since then, population within the County have bounced up and down. After 2006, the population of Tazewell County has rebounded somewhat through 2010, when the census found a total population of 45,078. It then declined again with the 2012 population estimates indicating a population of 44,268. With the current trend of population loss, the age distribution within the county (62.4% of the population ranging from 18 – 64 years with the Median Age of 43.2; 15.2% of the population ranging from 5 – 17 years; 5.2% of the population under 5 years of age; and 17.2% of the population over the age of 65 - 2010 Census Data), and the limited amount of affordable, appropriate and suitable housing (more assisted living options, housing with 1 floor, and facilities for disabled adults) is a cause of concern. Tazewell County is growing older, with inadequately constructed and unaffordable housing for such circumstances.

Figure 3.9 Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in Tazewell County

Location ‘Type of Facility Number of Beds

Westwood Center Bluefield Non-Ambulatory, 25 Residential Assisted Living Care

Mayfair House Cedar Bluff | Non-Ambulatory 60 Residential Assisted Living Care

Golden Age Cedar Bluff | Non-Ambulatory 49 Assisted Living Residential Assisted Living Care Special Care

Nursing Homes Location Ownership/Hospital Based | Number of Certified Beds Heritage Hall Tazewell For-profit Corporation/No 180 Westwood Bluefield For-profit Corporation/No 5

Source: Virginia Department of Social Services Web Assisted Living Facility Search Virginia Department of Health Directory of Long Term Care Facilities, Nov. 2012.

Housing Summary of Needs and ortunities

Tazewell County saw steady and at times dramatic growth through the early 1900s. This growth stalled after a 1950 high of 47,512 that marked the tuming point toward population decline through 1970, which logged in a population for the County of 39,816. The coal boom in the 1970s spurred a time of dramatic growth of nearly 27 percent with an all-time high in population reached for the county of 50,511. After 1980, the population of Tazewell County declined through the 2006 census estimate documenting 44,608 as the total number of people living in the county (not a statistically significant change from the 2000 figure of 44,598). Since then, population within the County have bounced up and down. After 2006, the population of Tazewell County has rebounded somewhat through 2010, when the census found a total population of 45,078. It then declined again with the 2012 population estimates indicating a population of 44,268. With the current trend of population loss, the age distribution within the county (62.4% of the population ranging from 18 ~ 64 years with the Median Age of 43.2; 15.2% of the population ranging from 5 — 17 years; 5.2% of the population under 5 years of age; and 17.2% of the population over the age of 65 - 2010 Census Data), and the limited amount of affordable, appropriate and suitable housing (more assisted living options, housing with 1 floor, and facilities for disabled adults) is a cause of concern. Tazewell County is growing older, with inadequately constructed and unaffordable housing for such circumstances.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 23

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 24

This cause of concern is the onset of the “baby-boomers.” It is not uncommon for members of the aging population to choose to downsize their homes, move into an apartment or retirement community, or consider assisted living options. The planning committees within the county must be aware of the current housing availability, consider future housing needs, and plan accordingly.

Another area of concern is the affordability of housing. With the majority of the population (62.1%) being between the ages 18 and 64 years with the median age of 43.2, affordable housing is imperative for the aging population moving into retirement age and for residents who do not have the benefit of having higher paying jobs due to the lack of training, education or work experience. Individuals living on fixed incomes, SSI, or households with minimum wage earners will be those most impacted by the need for “affordable” housing.

Access and availability of adequate, diverse, and attractive housing is critical to the quality of life of all residents of Tazewell County. The county must continue to encourage the development of appropriate and desired housing stock within the county and ensure that these resources are linked directly with the provision of necessary services and access to good transportation and job opportunities.

Another area of concern is the affordability of housing. With the majority of the population (62.1%) being between the ages 18 and 64 years with the median age of 43.2, affordable housing is imperative for the aging population moving into retirement age and for residents who do not have the benefit of having higher paying jobs due to the lack of training, education or work experience. Individuals living on fixed incomes, SSI, or households with minimum wage eamers will be those most impacted by the need for “affordable” housing.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 24

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 25

Goal Statement:

To promote the development of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing to meet present and future population needs.

Implementation of the Goal:

Increase the availability of housing by encouraging new residential development through implementation of zoning land use practices (IE. Cluster development multifamily housing, water and sewer services.

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide adequate and attractive housing options for County residents

· Provide incentives to developers (density bonuses, fee reductions) to ensure the development of variety of housing types and price ranges within the county

· Guide residential development through infrastructure improvements in targeted areas of the county

· Assess and develop strategy for addressing workforce housing needs in the area

· Develop strategy and partners for retirement community planning and promotion

Increase opportunities for low and moderate-income households to be able to afford quality, decent, safe, and sanitary housing.

· To attract investors for more upscale housing, including condominiums, retirement centers, and assisted living.

· Encourage the rehabilitation of residential properties.

· Provide incentives to developers for inclusion of suitable and affordable housing.

Goal Statement:

To promote the development of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing to meet present and future population needs.

Implementation of the Goal:

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide adequate and attractive housing options for County residents

Provide incentives to developers (density bonuses, fee reductions) to ensure the development of variety of housing types and price ranges within the county
Guide residential development through infrastructure improvements in targeted areas of the county

~ Assess and develop strategy for addressing workforce housing needs in the area

Develop strategy and partners for retirement community planning and promotion

Increase opportunities for low and moderate-income households to be able to afford quality, decent, safe, and sanitary housing.

To attract investors for more upscale housing, including condominiums, retirement centers, and assisted living

Encourage the rehabilitation of residential properties.

Provide incentives to developers for inclusion of suitable and affordable housing.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 25

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 26

IV. Transportation
The movement of people and goods through and around a community are important not only to the economy, but also to the development patterns of an area. As was earlier stated, Tazewell County was settled during westward expansion of this country and the towns and settlements that grew up in this area were anchored initially by agricultural settlements as well as the exploration and extraction of the salt and the coal-rich areas of the region. Of course, the geography of this area also played a significant role in the settlement and movement of people of goods. Mountains, valleys, waterways, and ridgelines all guided the placement of roads, rails, and communities.

Another factor driving this movement was the settlement of people throughout and around the county.
Where people live and where they work drive the need for transportation corridors throughout Tazewell County. The relationship between where people live and where they work has changed dramatically over the past several decades and the road network in a community is not as crucial to citizens as access to clean water was to pioneers of this community.

A. Transportation Modes and Networks The effects of a community’s transportation system upon the land are vital. A transportation plan must take into consideration topography, population density and distribution, land development policies, and the overall planning objectives of a community. Additionally, how people and goods use various networks are crucial to the development of a community and the impact on the landscape and resources of the region.

Tazewell County, located within the Cumberland Plateau Planning District is situated in Southwest Virginia near the borders of the three states of West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. The network of highways running through this region includes two US numbered highways and eleven state highways.
US Routes 460 and 19 runs through the center of Tazewell County linking three important county communities of Richlands, Tazewell and Bluefield as well as linking the county to Buchanan County within the region. Where these routes split (Claypool Hill), travelers diverge to take 460 toward Roanoke, Virginia to the east and Pikeville Kentucky to the west and Route 19 to Abingdon, Virginia or Bristol, Tennessee.

Interstates 81 and 77 run within 30 miles of Tazewell County’s southern border and link the county and region to the rest of the eastern seaboard as well as urban centers to the west and north. These two interstate highways, along with the US and state highway networks link Tazewell County to population and economic centers within Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia. Tazewell County residents as well as goods from the county can be transported using this highway network to travel to

'V. Transportation The movement of people and goods through and around a community are important not only to the economy, but also to the development patterns of an area. As was earlier stated, Tazewell County was settled during westward expansion of this country and the towns and settlements that grew up in this area were anchored initially by agricultural settlements as well as the exploration and extraction of the salt and the coal-rich areas of the region. Of course, the geography of this area also played a significant role in the settlement and movement of people of goods. Mountains, valleys, waterways, and ridgelines all guided the placement of roads, rails, and communities.

Another factor driving this movement was the settlement of people throughout and around the county. Where people live and where they work drive the need for transportation corridors throughout Tazewell County. The relationship between where people live and where they work has changed dramatically over the past several decades and the road network in a community is not as crucial to citizens as access to clean water was to pioneers of this community.

A. Transportation Modes and Networks

The effects of a community’s transportation system upon the land are vital. A transportation plan must take into consideration topography, population density and distribution, land development policies, and the overall planning objectives of a community. Additionally, how people and goods use various networks are crucial to the development of a community and the impact on the landscape and resources of the region.

Tazewell County, located within the

Cumberland Plateau Planning District is

situated in Southwest Virginia near the borders

of the three states of West Virginia, Kentucky

and Tennessee. The network of highways

running through this region includes two US

numbered highways and eleven state highways.

US Routes 460 and 19 runs through the center

of Tazewell County linking three important

county communities of Richlands, Tazewell

and Bluefield as well as linking the county to Buchanan County within the region, Where these routes split (Claypool Hill), travelers diverge to take 460 toward Roanoke, Virginia to the east and Pikeville Kentucky to the west and Route 19 to Abingdon, Virginia or Bristol, Tennessee.

Interstates 81 and 77 run within 30 miles of Tazewell County’s southern border and link the county and region to the rest of the eastern seaboard as well as urban centers to the west and north, These two interstate highways, along with the US and state highway networks link Tazewell County to population and economic centers within Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia, Tazewell County residents as well as goods from the county can be transported using this highway network to travel to

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 26

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 27

major metropolitan areas. People can easily travel to Knoxville, TN, Charlotte, NC, Roanoke, VA and Charleston, WV in less than two hours.

Figure 4.1

Primary and Secondary Road Map of Tazewell County

major metropolitan areas. People can easily travel to Knoxville, TN, Charlotte, NC, Roanoke, VA and Charleston, WV in less than two hours

Figure 4.1

Primary and Secondary Road Map of Tazewell County

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 27

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 28

As the following map so vividly shows (Figure 4.2), people within the region often work in one county and live in another. Tazewell County has the largest number of citizens who live and work in their home county of any within the planning district. However, there are still a number of commuters to the county supporting the need for maintenance and efficient placement of transportation corridors within and around the county.

Figure 4.2

2010 Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC**

Tazewell Buchanan Dickenson Russell VA

In place workers 11,397 5,189 2,242 5,987 3,511,116

In-Commuters 4,907 2,577 1,284 907 260,381

Out-Commuters 5,222 1,885 2,216 5,200 340,861

Net In-Commuters* -315 -692 -932 -4,293 -80,480

U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2010 American Community Survey.

In Commuters minus Out-Commuters.

The way people get to work is also an important indication of the transportation networks and lifestyles of citizens of the county. There was a significant increase in those traveling alone to work in a vehicle from 1990 to 2000 (Figure 4.3, see following page). This is a national phenomenon and has potential of great impact on roadways, parking, and costs of transportation for individuals and for the localities that provide the infrastructure to support vehicular transportation. Urban areas provide incentives for carpooling and public transportation and rural communities are beginning to consider these options as well. With gas prices expected to continually increase, and as the need to address public transportation and alternative transportation grows, the rural areas must not assume the concept is beyond their scope.

As the following map so vividly shows (Figure 4.2), people within the region often work in one county and live in another, Tazewell County has the largest number of citizens who live and work in their home county of any within the planning district, However, there are still a number of commuters to the county supporting the need for maintenance and efficient placement of transportation corridors. within and around the county.

Figure 4.2

Cumberland Plateau PDC**

Tazewell | Buchanan | Dickenson | Russell VA Tn place workers 11,397 5,189 2,242 5,987 3,511,116 Tn-Commuters 4,907 2,577 1.284 907 260,381 ‘Out-Commuters 5,222 1,885 2,216 5,200 340,861 Net In-Commuters* 315 ~692 932 4293 -80,480

U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2010 American Community Survey.

In Commuters minus Out-Commuters.

‘The way people get to work is also an important indication of the transportation networks and lifestyles of citizens of the county. ‘There was a significant increase in those traveling alone to work in a vehicle from 1990 to 2000 (Figure 4.3, see following page). This is a national phenomenon and has potential of great impact on roadways, parking, and costs of transportation for individuals and for the localities that provide the infrastructure to support vehicular transportation. Urban areas provide incentives for carpooling and public transportation and rural communities are beginning to consider these options as well. With gas prices expected to continually increase, and as the need to address public transportation and alternative transportation grows, the rural areas must not assume the concept is beyond their scope.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 28

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 29

Figure 4.3

Map of Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC

Figure 4.3

Map of Commuting Patterns in Cumberland Plateau PDC

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 30

Freight services in Tazewell County are provided via rail and truck lines. Rail service in the region is provided by Norfolk Southern Railroad and CSX Transportation. Tazewell County is primarily served by Norfolk and Southern which has an east-west orientation within the region. Much of the coal mined within the county is shipped out of the region via rail on this line. Over 15 major interstate truck lines serve the region, with more than 20 smaller shipping companies provide trucking services within the county and other local areas. Travelers to and from Tazewell County have the options of using rail, bus, and air in addition to personal transportation. Amtrak passenger rail services are available in Hinton, West Virginia – about one hour from Tazewell County. Greyhound-Trailways bus service is accessible to citizens of the region at stops in Abingdon, Marion, Wytheville and Bristol.
Four County Transit and Graham Transit are also available for public transportation needs. Four County Transit serves the Cumberland Plateau Planning District, while Graham Transit primarily serves the Bluefield area. Connections with other transit systems can be made from these services to allow travel to other areas of the Region, such as Roanoke, Bristol, and Mercer County, WV. The Tazewell County Airport has small plane capabilities and has a 4,300-foot airplane runway and instrument landing capability for single and twin-engine general aviation uses. Additionally, easy commercial airline transportation access is available at the Tri-Cities Airport (Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, TN area). The Bluefield/Mercer County Airport (Mercer County, WV) offers personal and charter airline services.

Highway System

The Virginia Department of Transportation is the primary governmental agency responsible for highway development and maintenance. Tazewell County is part of the Bristol District of the Virginia Department of Transportation, which includes eight other districts, each divided into five sections:
interstate, primary, urban, public transit and secondary systems. The Bristol District covers a 12 county area consisting of 126 miles of interstate highways and 1,298 miles of primary system highways. As of June 2013, Tazewell County has a total of 152 miles of primary roads and 520 miles of secondary roads.

Current Highway Improvements

The Commonwealth Transportation Board is placing emphasis on the rehabilitation of bridges throughout the Commonwealth and in Tazewell County. The bridges in Tazewell County were originally constructed in the 1970’s during the time that the primary routes 19 and 460 were constructed. The age and the wear of the bridges have caused a portion of these bridges to become an area of concern. The Department of Transportation is currently rehabilitating these bridges to improve their reliability and serviceability.

The recent and currently ongoing construction of State Route 696 (Big Branch) in the Falls Mills area has allowed better access to the Northern District of the county. With the projected additional traffic, this may lead to the increase of development throughout this district.More long-term regional highway improvement projects that could significantly benefit Tazewell County include the I-73 corridor (under construction) and the “Coal Fields Expressway”. Although neither project would be within Tazewell County, both would significantly improve access to the regional transportation network.

Freight services in Tazewell County are provided via rail and truck lines. Rail service in the region is provided by Norfolk Southern Railroad and CSX Transportation. Tazewell County is primarily served by Norfolk and Southern which has an east-west orientation within the region. Much of the coal mined within the county is shipped out of the region via rail on this line, Over 15 major interstate truck lines serve the region, with more than 20 smaller shipping companies provide trucking services within the county and other local areas. Travelers to and from Tazewell County have the options of using rail, bus, and air in addition to personal transportation. Amtrak passenger rail services are available in Hinton, West Virginia — about one hour from Tazewell County. Greyhound-Trailways bus service is accessible to citizens of the region at stops in Abingdon, Marion, Wytheville and Bristol. Four County Transit and Graham Transit are also available for public transportation needs. Four County Transit serves the Cumberland Plateau Planning District, while Graham Transit primarily serves the Bluefield area. Connections with other transit systems can be made from these services to allow travel to other areas of the Region, such as Roanoke, Bristol, and Mercer County, WV. The Tazewell County Airport has small plane capabilities and has a 4,300-foot airplane runway and instrument landing capability for single and twin-engine general aviation uses. Additionally, easy commercial airline transportation access is available at the Tri-Cities Airport (Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, TN area). The Bluefield/Mercer County Airport (Mercer County, WV) offers personal and charter airline services.

Highway System

‘The Virginia Department of Transportation is the primary governmental agency responsible for highway development and maintenance. Tazewell County is part of the Bristol District of the Virginia Department of Transportation, which includes eight other districts, each divided into five sections: interstate, primary, urban, public transit and secondary systems. The Bristol District covers a 12 county area consisting of 126 miles of interstate highways and 1,298 miles of primary system highways. As of June 2013, Tazewell County has a total of 152 miles of primary roads and 520 miles of secondary roads.

Current Highway Improvements

The recent and currently ongoing construction of State Route 696 (Big Branch) in the Falls Mills area has allowed better access to the Northem District of the county, With the projected additional traffic, this may lead to the increase of development throughout this district More long-term regional highway improvement projects that could significantly benefit Tazewell County include the I-73 corridor (under construction) and the “Coal Fields Expressway”, Although neither project would be within Tazewell County, both would significantly improve access to the regional transportation network.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 30

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 31

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Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 32

Planned Improvements

With the construction of State Route 696 as mentioned above, other safety projects are being planned within the Northern District. State Routes 644 and 747 are in the planning stages. These routes are improving the safety of the traveling public in these areas, and these routes also lead to the newly constructed state prison located in Pocahontas. State Route 631 in the Baptist Valley area is being planned as soon as money becomes available.

Many safety improvement projects are being planned throughout Tazewell County. The table below is a list of these projects.

Route Number

Road Name Description From To Mileage

460 Gov GC Peery Hwy

Improvement of Intersection at US Route 460 and US Route 19

Intersection at Claypool Hill

Same —

102 Falls Mills Road

Turn Radius Increase,
add northbound and southbound turn lanes

Intersection with Route 656 (Big Branch Road)

Same —

644 Abbs Valley Road

Add right turn lane Intersection of route 702 (Pauley Road)

Same —

644 Abbs Valley Road

Reduce grade on southbound approach and reconstruct intersection

Intersection of Route 658 (Rosenbaum Road)

Same —

61 Clear Fork Road

Widen existing pavement, add shoulders

Route 735 (Albany Street)

Route 662 (Cove Creek Road)

7.3 miles

91 Veterans Road

Widening of existing lanes

Route 607 (Little Tumbling Creek Road)

0.10 Miles North of Route 609 (Maiden Springs Road)

7.5 miles

609 Wardell Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of
Route 603 (College Estates Road)

VA 19 Southbound

2.4 miles

616 Bearwallow Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of Route 621 (Stinson Ridge Road)

Intersection of
Route 622 (Reynolds Ridge Road)

1.7 miles

Planned Improvements

Many safety improvement projects are being planned throughout Tazewell County. The table below is a list of these projects.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 33

624 Amonate Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

4.8Miles North of Route 627 (Bandy Road)

West Virginia State Line

1.4 miles

631 Baptist Valley Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

1.0 Miles East of Route 773 (Bailey Road)

Intersection of Route 635 (Mundytown Road)

6.9 miles

637 Dry Fork Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of Route 643
(Station Hill Road)

West Virginia State Line

1.4 miles

643 Mud Fork
Road

Widening of Existing Lanes

Intersection of Route 655E
(Tiptop Road)

Intersection of Route 655W
(Goss Road)

0.2 miles

644 Horsepen
Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of Route 16(Stoney Ridge Road)

Intersection of Route 668
(Daniels Road)

1.9 miles

651 T.R. Barrett Road

Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of Route 19/460 (Gov. G.C. Peery Highway)

Intersection of Route 650 (Wittens Mill Road)

1.0 miles

655 Goss Road Reconstruction (widen lanes, add shoulders)

Intersection of Route 643 (Mud Fork Road)

Intersection of Route 644 (Abbs Valley Road)

1.8 miles

744 Triangle Road

Replace Bridge Bluestone River —

643 Johnsons Branch Road

Reconstruct and Repave Roadway

0.90 Miles East of Route 810 (Rooster Lane)

2.40 Miles East of Route 810 (Rooster Lane)

1.5 Miles

on ‘Amonate | Reconstruction (widen | 4.8Miles North of | West Virginia] 14 miles Road lanes, add shoulders) Route 627 (Bandy | State Line Road) GI Baptist Reconstruction (widen | 1.0 Miles East of | Intersection of __ | 6.9 miles Valley lanes, add shoulders) Route 773 (Bailey | Route 635 Road Road) (Mundytown Road) 67 Dry Fork | Reconstruction (widen | Intersection of 14 miles Road lanes, add shoulders) Route 643 State Line (Station Hill Road) 4B Mud Fork Intersection of Intersection of | 0.2 miles Road Route 655E Route 655W (Tiptop Road) (Goss Road) 644 | Horsepen Intersection of Intersection of | 1.9 miles Road Route 16(Stoney | Route 668 Ridge Road) (Daniels Road) 651 T.R. Barrett | Reconstruction (widen — | Intersection of Intersection of — | 1.0 miles Road lanes, add shoulders) Route 19/460 Route 650 (Gov. GC. Peery | (Wittens Highway) Road) 655 | GossRoad | Reconstruction (widen | Intersection of Intersection of | 1.8 miles lanes, add shoulders) Route 643 (Mud | Route 644 (Abs Fork Road) Valley Road) 744 [Triangle | Replace Bridge Bluestone River = Road 643 | Johnsons | Reconstruct and Repave | 0.90 Miles East of [2.40 Miles East | 1.5 Miles Branch Roadway Route 810 of Route 810 Road (Rooster Lane) (Rooster Lane) Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 33

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 34

The large number of projects from the long range transportation plan is daunting. As such, the top five project priorities recommended are:

US Route 460/US Route 19 Intersection - Improvements of intersection for safety and congestion related issues.
Route 644 - Abbs Valley Road. Reduction of grade on southbound approach and reconstruction of intersection with State Route 658 (Rosenbaum Road)
Route 609 - Wardell Road. Reconstruction of roadway, including widening of lanes and addition of shoulders to roadway.
Route 744 - Triangle Road. Replacement of bridge over the Bluestone River.
Route 651 - T.R. Barrett Road. Reconstruction of roadway, including widening of lanes and

addition of shoulders to roadway.

It is recommended that the Tazewell County Transportation Safety Committee continue to study and keep detailed records of hazardous locations within the county to update the priority list of safety improvements.

Needed Improvements

This section does not deal directly with specific projects, but rather with the general needs of the county, as well as safety issues. It is recommended that the Tazewell County Road Viewer Committee be responsible for implementing these recommendations and that this group report annually to the Board of Supervisors on their progress.

The first item involves the existing state road system. There are many high volume secondary roads and collectors that need to be upgraded. While a list of many of these roads is contained in the current long range transportation improvement plan, this list will be re-evaluated with the new statewide VTrans 2040. This document will be the guidance for long range transportation planning over the next 25 years. Larger construction projects will be funded and prioritized through the new House Bill 2 program and its criteria. Smaller projects and maintenance of existing roadways will be funded through the Bristol District and Lebanon Residency of VDOT. Tazewell County needs to work with the State and Federal Government to fully fund work on these roadways.

The next item involves the existing county road (Orphan Road) system. The county’s orphan road program needs to be examined and renovated to determine present needs and a method of implementation devised to make it more efficient. With the rise in material prices and the economic down turn, funding also plays a critical role in the maintenance and construction of these roadways.
The Tazewell County Planning Commission has recently developed an Orphan Road Subcommittee for the intake of additional roads into the Tazewell County Orphan Road System. Along with the Tazewell County Transportation Safety Committee and the Engineering Department, this committee should be used to help prioritize the needs of the county roads for the citizens of Tazewell County.

Another area of concern is the congestion of traffic in some parts of the county. In the Claypool Hill area of Tazewell County, there is a mixture of land uses located directly along this traffic

The large number of projects from the long range transportation plan is daunting. As such, the top five project priorities recommended are:

US Route 460/US Route 19 Intersection - Improvements of intersection for safety and congestion related issues.
Route 644 - Abbs Valley Road. Reduction of grade on southbound approach and reconstruction of intersection with State Route 658 (Rosenbaum Road)
Route 609 - Wardell Road. Reconstruction of roadway, including widening of lanes and addition of shoulders to roadway.

4, Route 744 - Triangle Road. Replacement of bridge over the Bluestone River.

Route 651 - T.R. Barrett Road. Reconstruction of roadway, including widening of lanes and addition of shoulders to roadway.

Needed Improvements

The first item involves the existing state road system. There are many high volume secondary roads and collectors that need to be upgraded. While a list of many of these roads is contained in the current long range transportation improvement plan, this list will be re-evaluated with the new statewide VTrans 2040, This document will be the guidance for long range transportation planning over the next 25 years. Larger construction projects will be funded and prioritized through the new House Bill 2 program and its criteria, Smaller projects and maintenance of existing roadways will be funded through the Bristol District and Lebanon Residency of VDOT. Tazewell County needs to work with the State and Federal Government to fully fund work on these roadways.

The next item involves the existing county road (Orphan Road) system. The county’s orphan road program needs to be examined and renovated to determine present needs and a method of implementation devised to make it more efficient. With the rise in material prices and the economic down turn, funding also plays a critical role in the maintenance and construction of these roadways. The Tazewell County Planning Commission has recently developed an Orphan Road Subcommittee for the intake of additional roads into the Tazewell County Orphan Road System. Along with the Tazewell County Transportation Safety Committee and the Engineering Department, this committee should be used to help prioritize the needs of the county roads for the citizens of Tazewell County.

‘Another area of concern is the congestion of traffic in some parts of the county. In the Claypool Hill area of Tazewell County, there is a mixture of land uses located directly along this traffic Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 34

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 35

corridor. The combination of land uses and high traffic volume causes congestion which impedes the free flow of traffic in this area. While improvement of the intersection adjacent will have some impact, it will not do away with the problem altogether.

Of chief concern to the County is the development of the “Coal Fields Expressway” located within the region. The development of this expressway will cause an increase of congestion in the Claypool area with the increase of traffic volume. Tazewell County needs to work closely with the Department of Transportation to access the congestion in this area and to plan for the future impact of the “Coal Fields Expressway.” The assessment should also include the possible upgrade of U.S. 460 leading into Buchanan County and the improvement of Route 19 from the Bluefield Area to the Claypool Hill area with the construction of the I-73 Corridor already under construction. These two roadways are going to have a major impact on our current roadway system and possible development along the 460 and 19 road corridors. The future of the “Coal Fields Expressway” is somewhat in question, although new studies and recent public hearings do indicate that the project is still a possibility.

B. New Transportation Regulations In July 2006, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) instituted the Rural Transportation Planning Program. This initiative created regional transportation plans in rural areas that compliment those in the metropolitan areas of the state. By partnering with Virginia’s Planning District Commission (PDCs), the local governments are all represented and VDOT provides regional transportation assessment and improvements that best satisfy existing and future transportation needs.
Though not every rural area in the state is currently served, the goal of VDOT is to provide this type of programming statewide. Through this program, each planning district will develop a Rural Long- Range Plan (RLRP) that will have a minimum of 20-years planning horizons and will address the expected impacts of population and employment growth on the transportation system. Each will develop a vision statement and be updated every five (5) years and will ultimately be used to identify regional priorities for funding. The RLRP will also provide a GIS-based long-range multimodal transportation plan that integrates highways, bicycle/pedestrian/freight, aviation, and transit systems.

The Virginia General Assembly enacted Chapter 527 within the Code of Virginia (Section 15.2- 2222.1) that authorizes VDOT to coordinate state and local transportation planning beginning July 1, 2007. This new regulation gives VDOT review and comment opportunity on local Comprehensive Plans drafts and updates prior to adoption of said plans as they relate to transportation on state controlled highways. VDOT comments shall relate to plans and capacities for construction of transportation facilities affected by the proposal. Within 30 days of receipt of such proposed plan or amendment, VDOT may request a meeting between VDOT and the local planning commission or other agency to discuss the plan or amendment. VDOT will make written comments within 90 days after receipt of the plan or amendment and such comments must become part of the official record of the plan or amendment’s adoption proceedings.

Chapter 527 also impacts the review procedures for rezoning and subdivision requests before the local governing body. If either such requests are expected to have a substantial affect on transportation on

Of chief concer to the County is the development of the “Coal Fields Expressway” located within the region. The development of this expressway will cause an increase of congestion in the Claypool area with the increase of traffic volume. Tazewell County needs to work closely with the Department of Transportation to access the congestion in this area and to plan for the future impact of the “Coal Fields Expressway.” The assessment should also include the possible upgrade of U.S. 460 leading into Buchanan County and the improvement of Route 19 from the Bluefield Area to the Claypool Hill area with the construction of the I-73 Corridor already under construction. These two roadways are going to have a major impact on our current roadway system and possible development along the 460 and 19 road corridors. The future of the “Coal Fields Expressway” is somewhat in question, although new studies and recent public hearings do indicate that the project is still a possibility.

B. New Transportation Regulations In July 2006, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) instituted the Rural Transportation

Planning Program. This initiative created regional transportation plans in rural areas that compliment those in the metropolitan areas of the state. By partnering with Virginia’s Planning District Commission (PDCs), the local governments are all represented and VDOT provides regional transportation assessment and improvements that best satisfy existing and future transportation needs. Though not every rural area in the state is currently served, the goal of VDOT is to provide this type of programming statewide, Through this program, each planning district will develop a Rural Long- Range Plan (RLRP) that will have a minimum of 20-years planning horizons and will address the expected impacts of population and employment growth on the transportation system, Each will develop a vision statement and be updated every five (5) years and will ultimately be used to identify regional priorities for funding. The RLRP will also provide a GIS-based long-range multimodal transportation plan that integrates highways, bicycle/pedestrian/freight, aviation, and transit systems.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 35

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 36

state-controlled highways, the applicant must include a traffic impact statement that follows VDOT approved methodology. VDOT will review traffic impact statements and provide comments based on the local comprehensive plan, regulations and guidelines of VDOT, engineering and design considerations, any adopted regional or statewide plans, and short and long-term traffic impacts on and off site.

The Virginia General Assembly authorized VDOT to develop and implement access management standards for arterials, collectors, and local streets. These standards went into effect on July 1, 2008.
These regulations are not advisory and all new entrances to the state highway system will have to meet the new VDOT requirements or permits will not be issued. These standards will be imposed by VDOT, not the local governing body, and these regulations have the force of law. The implementation of this new system is in two phases: Phase One will regulate principal arterial roads which went into effect on July 1, 2008; Phase Two will regulate minor arterials, collectors, and local streets which became effective on October 14, 2009. Additional regulatory changes were made during the 2011 Legislative session of the General Assembly to create a new category of Low Volume Commercial Entries.

These regulations currently apply only to designed highways with phasing planned to include the rest of the state highway system. Key features of these new regulations require: 1) Entrances must accommodate bicycles and pedestrians; 2) Entrances are not permitted in the functional area of an intersection or interstate interchange; 3) Private entrances are redefined to include some low volume uses that are currently classified as commercial as well as entrances to agricultural fields and public utility facilities; 4) VDOT will no longer provide on cost installation of private entrance pipes; and 5) Key changes in the Road Design Manual including new spacing requirements for commercial entrances, crossovers, and signals, and revised curb radii and clearances.

These changes in regulation are designed to provide more efficient and management development patterns throughout the state. The philosophy of these programs appear soundly in line with those of the county. Implementation of these regulations and procedures will be new work for both the county and private organizations involved in development and will undoubtedly have an impact on the cost and pattern of development within the county.

Transportation

Summary Of Needs and Opportunities

The effects of a community’s transportation system upon the land are vital. Tazewell County’s main transportation infrastructure is the road and highway system ranging from US Routes 460 and 19 to unpaved primary and secondary roads.

A transportation plan must take into consideration topography, population density and distribution, land development policies, and the overall planning objectives of a community. Additionally, how people and goods use various networks are crucial to the development of a community and the impact on the landscape and resources of the region.

The Virginia General Assembly authorized VDOT to develop and implement access management standards for arterials, collectors, and local streets, These standards went into effect on July 1, 2008. These regulations are not advisory and all new entrances to the state highway system will have to meet the new VDOT requirements or permits will not be issued, These standards will be imposed by VDOT, not the local governing body, and these regulations have the force of law. The implementation of this new system is in two phases: Phase One will regulate principal arterial roads which went into effect on July 1, 2008; Phase Two will regulate minor arterials, collectors, and local streets which became effective on October 14, 2009. Additional regulatory changes were made during the 2011 Legislative session of the General Assembly to create a new category of Low Volume Commercial Entries.

‘These regulations currently apply only to designed highways with phasing planned to include the rest of the state highway system. Key features of these new regulations require: 1) Entrances must accommodate bicycles and pedestrians; 2) Entrances are not permitted in the functional area of an intersection or interstate interchange; 3) Private entrances are redefined to include some low volume uses that are currently classified as commercial as well as entrances to agricultural fields and public utility facilities; 4) VDOT will no longer provide on cost installation of private entrance pipes; and 5) Key changes in the Road Design Manual including new spacing requirements for commercial entrances, crossovers, and signals, and revised curb radii and clearances.

Transportation Summary Of Needs and Opportunities

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 36

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 37

The Tazewell County Airport is located two miles northwest of Claypool Hill off U.S. Route 19/460.
The airport service has an important economic and transportation benefit for this tri-county region.
The airport is governed by the Tazewell County Airport Authority. Commercial air service is also available at nearby Tri-City Regional Airport (Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City). Having an airport can also help civil defense. It provides relief from natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. It also provides service for local police, Civil Air Patrol, and National Guard activities and may be used by aircraft involved in the detection and suppression of forest fires and assessment of damages caused by fuel and chemical spills. The Tazewell County Airport has small plane capabilities, including a 4,300-foot aircraft runway and instrument landing capability for single and twin-engine general aviation uses. An AWOS Beacon upgrade was completed at the airport in 2012. Additionally, a project was completed in 2011 with FAA assistance to improve the approach angle of aircraft during takeoff and landing, primarily by excavating out a portion of an adjacent mountain.

Rail service in the region is provided by Norfolk Southern Railroad and CSX Transportation.
Tazewell County is primarily served by Norfolk and Southern which has an east-west orientation within the region. Much of the coal mined within the county is shipped out of the region via rail on this line. Amtrak passenger rail services are available in Hinton, West Virginia—about on hour from Tazewell County.

Major interstate truck lines and smaller companies provide trucking services. Local bus services are available within the region, and commercial bus service is accessible to citizens of the region at stops in Abingdon, Marion, Wytheville, and Bristol.

Goal: Create and support efficient and convenient transportation network for the movement of people and goods into, out of, and within the county.

Implementation of the Goal: Provide efficient and quality public facilities and services to reasonably and adequately serve all geographic sectors of the county.

Objectives and Strategies:

Upgrade existing unpaved secondary roads • Continue to aggressively seek and utilize available state funds to upgrade unpaved

roads.
• Prioritize the unpaved road projects based on a set of criteria.

Improve unsafe conditions on county roads and bridges

• Identify road sections with dangerous curves and inadequate bridges, or with pavement widths insufficient to carry existing traffic volumes, and include improvements in the six-year secondary road plan.

• Continue to upgrade substandard subdivision streets to state standards through the Rural Addition Program.

Promote construction and enhancement of major transportation corridors in the county. • Support improvements to US 19 and 460 in order to address increasing traffic problems • Support the construction of a new interchange at Claypool Hill to serve the increasing

amount of through traffic

The Tazewell County Airport is located two miles northwest of Claypool Hill off U.S. Route 19/460. The airport service has an important economic and transportation benefit for this tri-county region The airport is governed by the Tazewell County Airport Authority. Commercial air service is also available at nearby Tri-City Regional Airport (Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City). Having an airport can also help civil defense. It provides relief from natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. It also provides service for local police, Civil Air Patrol, and National Guard activities and may be used by aircraft involved in the detection and suppression of forest fires and assessment of damages caused by fuel and chemical spills. The Tazewell County Airport has small plane capabilities, including a 4,300-foot aircraft runway and instrument landing capability for single and twin-engine general aviation uses. An AWOS Beacon upgrade was completed at the airport in 2012. Additionally, a project was completed in 2011 with FAA assistance to improve the approach angle of aircraft during takeoff and landing, primarily by excavating out a portion of an adjacent mountain.

Rail service in the region is provided by Norfolk Southern Railroad and CSX Transportation. ‘Tazewell County is primarily served by Norfolk and Southern which has an east-west orientation within the region. Much of the coal mined within the county is shipped out of the region via rail on this line. Amtrak passenger rail services are available in Hinton, West Virginia—about on hour from Tazewell County.

Goal: Create and support efficient and convenient transportation network for the movement of people and goods into, out of, and within the county.

Implementation of the Goal: Provide efficient and quality public facilities and services to reasonably and adequately serve all geographic sectors of the county.

Objectives and Strategies:

Upgrade existing unpaved secondary roads

‘* Prioritize the unpaved road projects based on a set of criteria.

Improve unsafe conditions on county roads and bridges © Identify road sections with dangerous curves and inadequate bridges, or with pavement widths insufficient to carry existing traffic volumes, and include improvements in the six-year secondary road plan. © Continue to upgrade substandard subdivision streets to state standards through the Rural Addition Program.
Promote construction and enhancement of major transportation corridors in the county. © Support improvements to US 19 and 460 in order to address increasing traffic problems © Support the construction of a new interchange at Claypool Hill to serve the increasing amount of through traffic Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 37

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 38

Prevent unsafe entrances on to state roads from residential and commercial developments • Support the Virginia Department of Transportation new Access Management

Regulations 5. Plan for future road improvement in designated growth areas in accordance with the land use plan and in coordination with proposed utility extensions

• Encourage a pro-active role by elected officials in transportation planning • Continue to encourage all new structures to be setback an adequate distance from any

state road right-of-way in order to promote safety and avoid problems in future road widening and utility projects

Establish a priority on needed maintenance improvements on existing roadways • Continue support of the Tazewell County Road Viewer Committee
Improve county Orphan Road System • Access the need to renovate the existing Orphan Road Policy • Utilize the Tazewell County Transportation Safety Committee, Tazewell County

Planning Commission Orphan Roads Subcommittee, and Tazewell County Engineering Department to help prioritize the needs of the county’s Orphan Roads

• Explore means to increase funding for the Orphan Road System

Rail Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Preserve and enhance opportunities for greater industrial use of the railroad in the county

• Identify and reserve potential industrial sites along or near the railroad • Seek state industrial rail access funds to construct rail siding, when necessary, to serve

new or existing industrial sites • Study the possibility of establishing a train terminal for freight to be jointly used by area

industries 2. Promote efforts to restore passenger rail service through southwestern Virginia

• Take an active role in regional efforts to restore passenger rail service to the county • Assist the Town of Pocahontas in its efforts to convert the rail easement for the walking

and biking rail by seeking available grant funds

Air Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide airport improvements to meet future needs of industry and the general public • Support the implementation of the master plan for the Tazewell County Airport • Investigate the long-range feasibility of commuter air service based on experiences of

other small airports

4, Prevent unsafe entrances on to state roads from residential and commercial developments © Support the Virginia Department of Transportation new Access Management Regulations 5. Plan for future road improvement in designated growth areas in accordance with the land use plan and in coordination with proposed utility extensions

Encourage a pro-active role by elected officials in transportation planning © Continue to encourage all new structures to be setback an adequate distance from any state road right-of-way in order to promote safety and avoid problems in future road widening and utility projects

Establish a priority on needed maintenance improvements on existing roadways © Continue support of the Tazewell County Road Viewer Committee
Improve county Orphan Road System

Access the need to renovate the existing Orphan Road Policy
Utilize the Tazewell County Transportation Safety Committee, Tazewell County Planning Commission Orphan Roads Subcommittee, and Tazewell County Engineering Department to help prioritize the needs of the county’s Orphan Roads © Explore means to increase funding for the Orphan Road System

Rail Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Preserve and enhance opportunities for greater industrial use of the railroad in the county © Identify and reserve potential industrial sites along or near the railroad © Seek state industrial rail access funds to construct rail siding, when necessary, to serve new or existing industrial sites © Study the possibility of establishing a train terminal for freight to be jointly used by area industries
Promote efforts to restore passenger rail service through southwestern Virginia © Take an active role in regional efforts to restore passenger rail service to the county

Assist the Town of Pocahontas in its efforts to convert the rail easement for the walking and biking rail by seeking available grant funds

ir Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide airport improvements to meet future needs of industry and the general public © Support the implementation of the master plan for the Tazewell County Airport

Investigate the long-range feasibility of commuter air service based on experiences of other small airports

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 38

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 39

Public Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Increase the availability of public transit services • Investigate the possibility of commuter transit services to transport workers from home

to employment centers 2. Encourage ridesharing opportunities to assist county residents that lack transportation and reduce traffic loads in the county

• Pursue local interest in organizing a ride sharing program among area industries to encourage carpooling

• Study the need for “park and ride” lots in the county for commuters

Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide designated facilities for pedestrian and bicycle transportation

• Plan and seek grant funds for the development of countywide systems of walking and biking trails

• Work with the U.S. Forest Service to promote its existing recreational facilities for both local use and tourism

• Support projects to provide safe pedestrian and bicycling access along roadways within towns and in developed areas of the county

• Encourage development of safety regulation for bicycling on public roads, i.e. reflective gear, mirrors, helmets, and the deployment of necessary warning signs

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide designated facilities for ATV transportation

• Continue working with Southwest Regional Recreation Authority to complete the existing and funded ATV Trail system

• Continue working with Southwest Regional Recreation Authority to plan and seek grant funds for the development of additional systems of ATV trails

• Work with the U.S. Forest Service to promote its existing recreational facilities for both local use and tourism

• Support projects to provide safe ATV access along roadways within towns and in developed areas of the county

• Encourage development of safety regulation for ATV riding on public roads, i.e. reflective gear, mirrors, helmets, and the deployment of necessary warning signs

Public Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Increase the availability of public transit services © Investigate the possibility of commuter transit services to transport workers from home to employment centers
Encourage ridesharing opportunities to assist county residents that lack transportation and reduce traffic loads in the county © Pursue local interest in organizing a ride sharing program among area industries to encourage carpooling © Study the need for “park and ride” lots in the county for commuters Pedestrian and Bicycle Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide designated facilities for pedestrian and bicycle transportation

Work with the U.S. Forest Service to promote its existing recreational facilities for both local use and tourism

Encourage development of safety regulation for bicycling on public roads, i.e. reflective gear, mirrors, helmets, and the deployment of necessary warning signs

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Transportation

Objectives and Strategies:

Provide designated facilities for ATV transportation

Work with the U.S. Forest Service to promote its existing recreational facilities for both local use and tourism

Encourage development of safety regulation for ATV riding on public roads, ie. reflective gear, mirrors, helmets, and the deployment of necessary warning signs

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 39

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 40

V. Community Facilities and Governance
The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, and recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings and services that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community. The county provides many of these services and amenities to residents, some of which are paid in part or wholly through taxes and state and federal programs. Because much of the population is centered in the towns, the services and infrastructure are also centralized in these areas. It is not fiscally responsible or feasible to provide equal services across the vast geography of the county, but the provision of services and the burden of the cost for these services must be equitably borne. All citizens benefit from a healthy economy, and vibrant communities, even when not everyone lives in the center of these communities. Likewise, town residents benefit from the protection of natural beauty and resources available in the agricultural areas.
The provision and management of services and infrastructure is an important role of government and one worthy of assessment, planning, and protection for Tazewell County.

A. Community and Human Services Tazewell County is home to a myriad of community and human service organizations and governmental programs. These services provide resources to residents and visitors ranging from emergency needs to entertainment opportunities. Although a large number of these services are available, the majority of resources provided come from three sources: Clinch Valley Community Action (CVCA), the Tazewell County Department of Social Services (TCDSS), and the Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board (CMCSB). Both Clinch Valley Community Action and the Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board provide services to the region, in addition to Tazewell County.

Some of the services provided by these groups can be broken down into categories that include:

• Advocacy Services • Head Start Program • After School Programs • Housing • Alcohol and Drug Support Services • Indoor Plumbing and Weatherization • Case Management Services • Intellectual Disability Services • Civic Organizations • Legal Services • Community Outreach • Medical Services • Counseling • Mental Health Services • Crisis Services • Psychosocial Rehabilitation • Support Services for the Deaf • Recreation • Domestic Violence Support • Reproductive Health • Education • Senior Citizen Services • Emergency Food and Shelter • State Agencies • Employment Services • Tourism • Group Homes • Transportation Services

V. Community Facilities and Governance The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, and recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings and services that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community. The county provides many of these services and amenities to residents, some of which are paid in part or wholly through taxes and state and federal programs. Because much of the population is centered in the towns, the services and infrastructure are also centralized in these areas. It is not fiscally responsible or feasible to provide equal services across the vast geography of the county, but the provision of services and the burden of the cost for these services must be equitably borne, All citizens benefit from a healthy economy, and vibrant communities, even when not everyone lives in the center of these communities. Likewise, town residents benefit from the protection of natural beauty and resources available in the agricultural areas. The provision and management of services and infrastructure is an important role of government and one worthy of assessment, planning, and protection for Tazewell County.

A. Community and Human Services

Tazewell County is home to a myriad of community and human service organizations and governmental programs. These services provide resources to residents and visitors ranging from emergency needs to entertainment opportunities. Although a large number of these services are available, the majority of resources provided come from three sources: Clinch Valley Community Action (CVCA), the Tazewell County Department of Social Services (TCDSS), and the Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board (CMCSB). Both Clinch Valley Community Action and the Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board provide services to the region, in addition to Tazewell County.

Some of the services provided by these groups can be broken down into categories that include:

Advocacy Services After School Programs

Alcohol and Drug Support Services ‘Case Management Services

Civic Organizations

Community Outreach

Counseling

. Head Start Program ¢ Crisis Services

Housing Indoor Plumbing and Weatherization Intellectual Disability Services

Legal Services

Medical Services

Mental Health Services

Psychosocial Rehabilitation Recreation

Reproductive Health

Senior Citizen Services

State Agencies

Tourism

Transportation Services

Support Services for the Deaf Domestic Violence Support Education

Emergency Food and Shelter Employment Services

Group Homes

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 40

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 41

The Tazewell County Department of Social Services and Clinch Valley Community Action compile a Directory of Community Resources that list the services available within the county along with valuable contact information and general descriptions of the type of service and eligibility requirements The primary service area for both the CVCA and CMCSB is Tazewell County with additional services provided in Russell and Buchanan counties.

CVCA is locally managed and governed by a 15 member Board of Directors for the purpose of reducing poverty and promoting self- sufficiency of the poor. One-third of the board includes locally elected officials or their designees, one-third, representatives of local business or civic organizations and one-third, low income representatives. CVCA operates twelve programs with a total of 36 different projects. Over 8,000 individuals and more than 5,000 families are impacted by CVCA’s services in the three-county area. The agency employs over ninety (90) full and part-time individuals throughout the three-county area. CVCA brings a cross-section of the community together to address the needs of low-income citizens.

CMCSB is one of forty (40) Community Service Boards in Virginia. Their services include mental health, substance abuse, and intellectual disability programs in the their three-county area. Many of their programs have received recognition at the local, regional, state, and national levels for innovation in their service fields. Programs impact a wide cross section of the population, from services with infants, the elderly, the mentally ill, substance abusers, and the intellectually disabled. The Service Board employs approximately 480 full time, part time, and client-employees throughout the three- county area of Tazewell, Russell and Buchanan Counties.

B. Healthcare Facilities and Services Tazewell County is home to two hospitals: Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital is a 56 bed acute care facility, approved by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. It is a part of the Carilion family of hospitals. It admits roughly 1,100 patients per year, offering emergency, diagnostic, medical, and surgical care for residents. Clinch Valley Medical Center is a 200 bed acute care hospital offering specialty care for the heart and lungs, complete cancer care and emergency services, plus rehabilitation, skilled nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and advanced diagnostics. Each hospital is independently owned (investor owned) by an out of county entity and receives little or no input regarding quality and services for area citizens.

Additionally the county is home to the Tri-County Health Clinic and the Tazewell Community Clinic that provide services to low-income families at no cost as well as the Tazewell County Health Department that provides regular and emergency care to residents and visitors to the county. Bluefield

B. Healthcare Facilities and Services

Tazewell County is home to two hospitals: Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital is a 56 bed acute care facility, approved by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. It is a part of the Carilion family of hospitals. It admits roughly 1,100 patients per year, offering emergency, diagnostic, medical, and surgical care for residents. Clinch Valley Medical Center is a 200 bed acute care hospital offering specialty care for the heart and lungs, complete cancer care and emergency services, plus rehabilitation, skilled nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and advanced diagnostics. Each hospital is independently owned (investor owned) by an out of county entity and receives little or no input regarding quality and services for area citizens.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 41

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 42

Regional Medical Center supports a local Ambulatory and Radiology Diagnostic Center/Outpatient Surgical Center in Bluefield, VA. Additionally, the County now has a private Urgent Care facility in the MedExpress, Inc. facility in Bluefield, VA.

Tazewell County over the past decade has had access to average and above health care services whereas the emergency transportation system has struggled, and has been disjointed and not available on a timely basis to all areas of the county. The patient emergency receiving systems at the county’s two acute care hospitals has been good.

It appears county officials and area leaders have little interest or concern regarding health care as it has been provided for decades by outside corporations and entities. This lack of input has led to a lack of quality and in some cases a lack of needed services

Health care professional and physician shortages continue to be an area of concern. Southwest Virginia Community College and the Tazewell County School System (LPN) have done an excellent job educating and supplying health care employees in some disciplines of the health care field. Adequate numbers of physicians in Family Medicine, medical/surgical specialties and subspecialties continues to be a major concern. A new Registered Nurse (RN) Program at Bluefield College has been formed and will assist in meeting this shortage in part. Additionally, the proposed Dental School partnership with Bluefield College will seek to meet the shortage in technicians and dentists within the region.

Tazewell County is fortunate to have multiple nursing homes, all of which are well established with reputations of adequate patient care. Unfortunately, as the residents of the County grow older, there is a greater need for such facilities. The need for a long term care nursing facility in Tazewell County can be adequately supported. While several assisted care facilities are located in the western section of the county, there is a need for more assisted care facilities in the central and eastern sections of the county.

Generally the population of Tazewell County has been very dependent on state medical assistance for payment of health care services. The general trend is 10-15% of all health care services are paid for by Medicare or other forms of state subsidized payments.

In the past, the employment base in the Western and Northwestern districts of the county allowed commercial insurance payments for health care services to be above state and national averages. It remains to be seen if this is still the case. Commercial third party insurance coverage in the center part of the county lags, while the eastern section’s is just below average. In general, Tazewell County’s coal mining, gas exploration, state and local government, and manufacturing sectors have provided above average third party commercial insurance for it citizens.

Cost of health care in Tazewell County is higher than the state average. A portion of the high cost can be contributed to the very high cost of malpractice insurance for all facilities and health professionals.

Tazewell County has an aging population which creates challenges for health care providers both from a service standpoint and payment perspective.

Health care professional and physician shortages continue to be an area of concern, Southwest Virginia Community College and the Tazewell County School System (LPN) have done an excellent job educating and supplying health care employees in some disciplines of the health care field. Adequate numbers of physicians in Family Medicine, medical/surgical specialties and subspecialties continues to be a major concem, A new Registered Nurse (RN) Program at Bluefield College has been formed and will assist in meeting this shortage in part. Additionally, the proposed Dental School partnership with Bluefield College will seek to meet the shortage in technicians and dentists within the region.

In the past, the employment base in the Western and Northwestem districts of the county allowed commercial insurance payments for health care services to be above state and national averages. It remains to be seen if this is still the case. Commercial third party insurance coverage in the center part of the county lags, while the eastern section’s is just below average. In general, Tazewell County’s coal mining, gas exploration, state and local government, and manufacturing sectors have provided above average third party commercial insurance for it citizens.

‘Tazewell County has an aging population which creates challenges for health care providers both from a service standpoint and payment perspective.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan a2

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 43

The Virginia Health Department continues to provide many health services to the area’s citizens especially low-income families with children.

One item of importance is the impact on the Affordable Care Act on the health of the area. This law allows for those without insurance to gain access to health insurance at a subsidized rate through the federal government. This plan does not replace Medicaid or Medicare, instead providing services to those of working age and their dependents. The impact of the law is currently an unknown, with very little data to substantiate its success or failure.

The development of a Hospice program for portions of the county has been well accepted and extremely beneficial.

An area that should not be overlooked is cost of burials. While most funeral homes and mortuaries are locally owned, most grave yards in Tazewell County are owned by out of county, out of state companies. These companies have no charge controls thereby creating more pressure to utilize burials in unregulated grave yards or private burial plots.

C. Veterinary Services Another area of community health is veterinary services. Tazewell County is home to four veterinary care clinics and multiple smaller providers. Due to the rural nature of the county, many of these providers and clinics have the ability to treat not only house pets, but also larger animals, such as livestock. Veterinary services are also provided in adjacent counties, both in Virginia and West Virginia. In addition, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is home to a highly lauded School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating many of the area’s providers, and allowing for more complicated treatments for sick or wounded animals.

Goal: To provide assessable, affordable, health care services to the citizens of Tazewell County.

Objectives and Strategies

County and local officials take a more proactive role in health care. Input regarding services, costs, needs, insurance, etc, is badly needed.
Emphasis on physician and professional health service, personnel recruitment, and retention must be increased.
Recruitment from local medical schools (those within 100 mile radius) and professional schools must be undertaken. County citizen input is needed.
Development of more long term care facilities
Development of more assisted living facilities
Development of more outpatient services and sub-acute services. This provides lower cost alternatives to its citizens

The Virginia Health Department continues to provide many health services to the area’s citizens especially low-income families with children.

One item of importance is the impact on the Affordable Care Act on the health of the area, This law allows for those without insurance to gain access to health insurance at a subsidized rate through the federal government, This plan does not replace Medicaid or Medicare, instead providing services to those of working age and their dependents. The impact of the law is currently an unknown, with very little data to substantiate its success or failure.

The development of a Hospice program for portions of the county has been well accepted and extremely beneficial.

C. Veterinary Services

Another area of community health is veterinary services. Tazewell County is home to four veterinary care clinics and multiple smaller providers. Due to the rural nature of the county, many of these providers and clinics have the ability to treat not only house pets, but also larger animals, such as livestock. Veterinary services are also provided in adjacent counties, both in Virginia and West Virginia, In addition, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is home to a highly lauded School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating many of the area’s providers, and allowing for more complicated treatments for sick or wounded animals.

Goal: To provide assessable, affordable, health care services to the citizens of Tazewell County. Objectives and Strategies

County and local officials take a more proactive role in health care. Input regarding services, costs, needs, insurance, ete, is badly needed.
Emphasis on physician and professional health service, personnel recruitment, and retention must be increased.
Recruitment from local medical schools (those within 100 mile radius) and professional schools must be undertaken. County citizen input is needed.

4, Development of more long term care facilities 5. Development of more assisted living facilities 6. Development of more outpatient services and sub-acute services. This provides lower cost

alternatives to its citizens Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 4B

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 44

Creation of a task force to study and recommend improved emergency care transportation

services for the county.

Continued development of Hospice Program(s) to serve all county populace.
Continued development of healthcare needs, services, and methods of payment so needed services will be available and locally accessible for future generations.

D. Public Safety Services and Facilities The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services throughout the county. These facilities include buildings and services that provide for the quality of life, safety, and well-being of a community. The county provides these services and amenities to residents, which are paid through taxes and state and federal programs.

The Public Safety Department is dedicated to serving the Citizens of Tazewell County during times of county- wide crisis or single emergencies. It is the role of the Director of Public Safety to coordinate the efforts of the fire and rescue departments for the county.

Fire and Rescue The county is home to three full-time fire stations: Tazewell County Fire-Rescue, the Town of Richlands Fire Department, and The Town of Tazewell Fire Department. Tazewell County Fire-Rescue was founded with the purpose of providing fire suppression, rescue and emergency medical services to Central and Western Tazewell County, Virginia. This department serves approximately 15,000 citizens for fire suppression and approximately 30,000 with emergency medical services. Several communities and towns have volunteer fire departments that support the fire suppression efforts of the county within the towns and surrounding area. Tazewell County has now also added a Fire and Rescue Director to their staff. The primary purpose for the position is to foster cooperation between all of the emergency operators, as well as plan and budget for advancements in equipment and training for all departments.
Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department The mission of the county Sheriff’s Department is to provide for the welfare and safety of the surrounding communities, its citizens and environment while enforcing the law and maintaining safe responsive emergency services throughout Tazewell County.
Creation of a task force to study and recommend improved emergency care transportation services for the county.
Continued development of Hospice Program(s) to serve all county populace.
Continued development of healthcare needs, services, and methods of payment so needed services will be available and locally accessible for future generations.

D. Public Safety Services and Facilities

The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services throughout the county. These facilities include buildings and services that provide for the quality of life, safety, and well-being of a community. The county provides these services and amenities to residents, which are paid through taxes and state and federal programs,

The Public Safety Department is dedicated to serving the Citizens of Tazewell County during times of county-

wide crisis or single emergencies. It is the role of the Director of Public Safety to coordinate the efforts of the fire and rescue departments for the county

Fire and Rescue

The county is home to three full-time fire stations: Tazewell County Fire-Rescue, the Town of Richlands Fire Department, and The Town of Tazewell Fire Department, Tazewell County Fire-Rescue was founded with the purpose of providing fire suppression, rescue and emergency medical services to Central and Western Tazewell County, Virginia, This department serves approximately 15,000 citizens for fire suppression and

approximately 30,000 with emergency medical services. Several communities and towns have volunteer fire departments that support the fire suppression efforts of the county within the towns and surrounding area. Tazewell County has now also added a Fire and Rescue Director to their staff. The primary purpose for the position is to foster cooperation between all of the emergency ‘operators, as well as plan and budget for advancements in equipment and training for all departments.

Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department The mission of the county Sheriff’s Department is to provide for the welfare and safety of the surrounding communities, its citizens and environment while enforcing the law and maintaining safe responsive emergency services throughout Tazewell County.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 44

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 45

The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has five divisions to serve the residents of the County with 24 hour a day law enforcement service:

 Patrol  Detective  Civil Processing  Code Enforcement  Court Security

There are 51 full-time sworn officers and 83 Sheriff’s Department office personnel. Additionally, there are three (3) part-time employees in the courthouse. K-9 units serve with two primary purposes, narcotics cases and patrol duties. Two (2) full time K-9 animals are trained and on-duty for the County. Litter Control and Animal Control are handled by the Code Enforcement Division. Litter pickup, an excellent and active program. Two (2) employees coordinate the program through the court and patrol system. Pickup throughout the County is active five days a week. Drug issues are handled by the Drug Task Force. Three (3) full time officers are assigned to the drug task force, and this division is expanding due to the growing drug issues in Tazewell County. An Emergency Response Team has recently been organized. Ten (10) people make up this team, which are trained and prepared to respond to any emergency.

The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has been accredited by the State of Virginia since 2008.
Additionally, Sheriff Hieatt is a member of the Governor’s School Safety Task Force.

It must be noted that the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has no jurisdiction inside of town limits with the exception of animal licensing.

911 Emergency Response Center The Tazewell County 911 Emergency Response Center has been handling emergency calls since April 23, 1997. The 911 Center is comprised of 21 sworn employees under the Communications Division of the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office. The Communications Division is responsible for dispatching 25 Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS agencies within the County and its five Incorporated Towns. In 2012, the Communications Division processed 27,766 emergency phone calls and 95,432 non- emergency phone calls. Additionally, 38,663 incident reports were created, and 911,544 radio transmissions were processed.

The Communications Division has six (6) Dispatcher workstations within the 911 Center. Each of these use state of the art technology in processing calls for assistance. This includes a touch screen radio system, emergency medical dispatch (EMD) system that provides instructions on how callers can help prior to the arrival of emergency responders, two weather monitoring systems that provide up to the minute weather conditions and forecasts, mapping software that quickly plots a caller’s location, and various software applications that assist the Dispatchers in their duties. The Sherriff’s Office also utilizes a Mobile Crime Scene/Command Vehicle that assists in processing crime scenes and communications support at large incidents.

The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has five divisions to serve the residents of the County with 24 hour a day law enforcement service:

Patrol Detective

Civil Processing Code Enforcement Court Security

‘There are 51 full-time swom officers and 83 Sheriff’s Department office personnel. Additionally, there are three (3) part-time employees in the courthouse. K-9 units serve with two primary purposes, narcotics cases and patrol duties. Two (2) full time K-9 animals are trained and on-duty for the County. Litter Control and Animal Control are handled by the Code Enforcement Division. Litter pickup, an excellent and active program. Two (2) employees coordinate the program through the court and patrol system. Pickup throughout the County is active five days a week. Drug issues are handled by the Drug Task Force. Three (3) full time officers are assigned to the drug task force, and this division is expanding due to the growing drug issues in Tazewell County, An Emergency Response Team has recently been organized. Ten (10) people make up this team, which are trained and prepared to respond to any emergency.

The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has been accredited by the State of Virginia since 2008. Additionally, Sheriff Hieatt is a member of the Governor’s School Safety Task Force.

It must be noted that the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department has no jurisdiction inside of town limits with the exception of animal licensing.

911 Emergency Response Center The Tazewell County 911 Emergency Response Center has been handling emergency calls since April 23, 1997. The 911 Center is comprised of 21 sworn employees under the Communications Division of the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office. The Communications Division is responsible for dispatching 25 Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS agencies within the County and its five Incorporated Towns. In 2012, the Communications Division processed 27,766 emergency phone calls and 95,432 non- emergency phone calls. Additionally, 38,663 incident reports were created, and 911,544 radio transmissions were processed.

The Communications Division has six (6) Dispatcher workstations within the 911 Center. Each of these use state of the art technology in processing calls for assistance. This includes a touch screen radio system, emergency medical dispatch (EMD) system that provides instructions on how callers can help prior to the arrival of emergency responders, two weather monitoring systems that provide up to the minute weather conditions and forecasts, mapping software that quickly plots a caller’s location, and various software applications that assist the Dispatchers in their duties, The Sherriff’s Office also utilizes a Mobile Crime Scene/Command Vehicle that assists in processing crime scenes and communications support at large incidents.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 45

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 46

The Communications Division, along with the Board of Supervisors, are implementing improvements to the communications system countywide as detailed in various studies and reports completed in recent years. These improvements area to better strengthen the communications system to handle the increasing call volumes, improve radio coverage in the valleys, and to better withstand the unique weather conditions of Tazewell County.

Pocahontas State Correctional Center Pocahontas State Correctional Center (PSCC) is a medium security correctional facility (Levels II and III) within the Virginia Department of Corrections. Located on County Route 734 just outside the Town of Pocahontas, the facility is located on 950 acres of land.

Construction of this facility began in 2004, with PSCC receiving its first offenders on October 2, 2007.
Maximum capacity of the center is 1,024 general population offenders. The prison population is managed in a housing unit style environment and lends itself to program participation. The institution provides a variety of program and educational opportunities, including substance abuse classes, vocational classes, and a high school completion or GED class.

The physical plan consists of four (4) offender housing units with a 256 bed capacity for each. The inside support building contains Special Housing, Property, Intake, Commissary, Medical, Food Service, DCE and Vocational, Treatment, Laundry, Offender Gymnasium, and Offender Visitation.
There is also a Warehouse / Maintenance Building and the Staff Range, which is also utilized by the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department for training. Security at the facility includes a double perimeter fence (with electronic motion detection equipment) with razor wire, a video surveillance system, and two sally ports for entry and exit.

Currently PSCC has 300+ classified positions, in the following arenas: facility management, correctional security, business and accounting management, human resource management, counseling, mental health care, postal services, food services, offender records, warehouse, laundry, building and grounds, clerical support, medical, and educational services. Pocahontas State Correctional Center has been a welcome addition to the County, and enjoys a close and cooperative relationship with local citizens, businesses, and public officials.

‘The Communications Division, along with the Board of Supervisors, are implementing improvements to the communications system countywide as detailed in various studies and reports completed in recent years, These improvements area to better strengthen the communications system to handle the increasing call volumes, improve radio coverage in the valleys, and to better withstand the unique weather conditions of Tazewell County.

4, Pocahontas State Correctional Center Pocahontas State Correctional Center (PSCC) is a medium security correctional facility (Levels Il and I1}) within the Virginia Department of Corrections. Located on County Route 734 just outside the Town of Pocahontas, the facility is located on 950 acres of land.

Construction of this facility began in 2004, with PSCC receiving its first offenders on October 2, 2007. Maximum capacity of the center is 1,024 general population offenders. The prison population is managed in a housing unit style environment and lends itself to program participation, The institution provides a variety of program and educational opportunities, including substance abuse classes, vocational classes, and a high school completion or GED class.

The physical plan consists of four (4) offender housing units with a 256 bed capacity for each, The inside support building contains Special Housing, Property, Intake, Commissary, Medical, Food Service, DCE and Vocational, Treatment, Laundry, Offender Gymnasium, and Offender Visitation. There is also a Warehouse / Maintenance Building and the Staff Range, which is also utilized by the ‘Tazewell County Sheriff’s Department for training. Security at the facility includes a double perimeter fence (with electronic motion detection equipment) with razor wire, a video surveillance system, and two sally ports for entry and exit.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 46

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 47

E. Recreational Services and Facilities Tazewell, Bluefield, and Richlands all have recreation departments that provide a variety of regional services and facility management. Tazewell County has four established parks: Cavitt’s Creek, Lincolnshire, Graham, and Richlands Recreation park. All have active as well as passive recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Since the last edition of this document in 2008, additional recreational attractions have

been created. These include the portion of Virginia Route 16, denoted by the Governor of Virginia as the Back of the Dragon, a 32 mile portion of the highway in Tazewell and Smyth counties, which are major draws for motorcycle/sport car aficionados, including an annual rally that is held in Tazewell. Then there is the new “Original Pocahontas” ATV Trail, constructed by Tazewell County, and managed by Spearhead Trails, an offshoot of the Southwest Regional Recreation Authority (SRRA.) This includes over 30 miles of ATV trails in the Pocahontas area.In order to

serve these new facilities, Tazewell County has also become home to several new cabin facilities which will cater to the ATV and motorcyclist/driver.

Additionally, the Clinch Valley Bioreserve is listed by Nature Conservancy among the “Last Great Places” in the WORLD’s remaining ecosystems. Some of the most sensitive species of the Clinch River include 13 endangered species of freshwater mussels. As stated earlier in the plan, Tazewell County also has many natural and cultural areas that attract residents and visitors worthy of protection and enhancement such as Burke’s Garden, Pioneer Park, and the Paint Lick area that is home to Native American cliff drawings. Jefferson National Forest has a rustic campground facility located along the county border and there are also several private fishing and hunting clubs throughout Tazewell County.

Community Facilities and Services

Summary of Needs and Opportunities

The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a multitude of services for health, welfare, education, and recreation throughout the county. These services not only provide for the health and safety of the community, but also improve the quality of life for the citizens. Opportunities range from amenities paid from local, state and federal programs, to the natural beauty and agricultural areas that are prevalent throughout the county. With the opportunities come challenges inherent to rural areas.

E. Recreational Services and Facilities

Tazewell, Bluefield, and Richlands all have recreation departments that provide a variety of regional services and facility management. Tazewell County has four established parks: Cavitt’s Creek, Lincolnshire, Graham, and Richlands Recreation park. All have active as well as passive recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Since the last edition of this document in 2008, additional recreational attractions have

serve these new facilities, Tazewell County has also become home to several new cabin facilities

which will cater to the ATV and motorcyclist/driver.

American cliff drawings. Jefferson National Forest has a rustic campground facility located along the county border and there are also several private fishing and hunting clubs throughout Tazewell County.

Community Facil

ties and Services

Summary of Needs and Opportunities

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan a7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 48

Human services agencies such as Tazewell County Department of Social Services and Clinch Valley Community Action provide resources, training, outreach, referral, and advocacy to meet the needs of those least able to provide for themselves. While no longer the highest, Tazewell County still has a high number of children in foster care, when compared to the other counties of Southwest Virginia.
This is due in great part to the substance abuse problems that are prevalent. Finding an adequate number of foster homes within the county is a challenge. Some children must be housed in specialized foster care outside our area, since those homes are not always available locally.

Due to the aging population of the county, services are also provided by the Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens. They provide a vast array of services for Tazewell County’s senior citizens that aren’t met by any other program. These include transportation, nutrition, day care and health care. Most of these services are on a sliding fee scale or free to the participant.

Tazewell County also has Taking Action for Special Kids (TASK) and the Center for Independent Living (CIL) to assist citizens with special needs. There are food pantry programs in each town that help those who need help providing food for their families. These agencies all provide a valuable service for those in need.

The county also offers a robust Public Safety Program. This includes fire and rescue services for all areas of the county; emergency services for any natural or man-made disaster; and law enforcement through the Tazewell County Sheriff’s office, town police forces and Special Police. One challenge that faces the Public Safety Program is the terrain of the county. While providing natural beauty, it also tests the communication systems of these services. These needs have been addressed by a state communications grant to upgrade the radio systems for emergency services personnel throughout the county. A continuous effort is underway to upgrade these facilities to serve the citizens of Tazewell County.

Recreational opportunities abound in the county due to its terrain and natural beauty. The new motorsport facilities help showcase this beauty to visitors and residents of the “gearhead” persuasion.
For others, the four established parks within the borders of the county will allow visitors and residents alike to enjoy the great outdoors. The Nature Conservancy listed the Clinch Valley Bioreserve among the “Last Great Places” in the world’ remaining ecosystems. Some of the most sensitive species of the Clinch River include 13 endangered species of freshwater mussels. These endangered species also provide special challenges to development in the area, sometimes delaying projects because of the unique species that must be protected before construction can begin.

The county should maintain adequate library services and continue to support development of library services in the county.

Human services agencies such as Tazewell County Department of Social Services and Clinch Valley Community Action provide resources, training, outreach, referral, and advocacy to meet the needs of those least able to provide for themselves. While no longer the highest, Tazewell County still has a high number of children in foster care, when compared to the other counties of Southwest Virginia. This is due in great part to the substance abuse problems that are prevalent. Finding an adequate number of foster homes within the county is a challenge. Some children must be housed in specialized foster care outside our area, since those homes are not always available locally.

Due to the aging population of the county, services are also provided by the Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens. They provide a vast array of services for Tazewell County’s senior citizens that aren’t met by any other program, These include transportation, nutrition, day care and health care. Most of these services are on a sliding fee scale or free to the participant.

Recreational opportunities abound in the county due to its terrain and natural beauty. The new motorsport facilities help showcase this beauty to visitors and residents of the “gearhead” persuasion. For others, the four established parks within the borders of the county will allow visitors and residents alike to enjoy the great outdoors. The Nature Conservancy listed the Clinch Valley Bioreserve among the “Last Great Places” in the world” remaining ecosystems. Some of the most sensitive species of the Clinch River include 13 endangered species of freshwater mussels. These endangered species also provide special challenges to development in the area, sometimes delaying projects because of the unique species that must be protected before construction can begin.

The county should maintain adequate library services and continue to support development of library services in the county.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 48

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 49

Goal Statement:

To provide efficient and improved quality public facilities and services, so that to the greatest extent feasible, all geographic sectors will be adequately served.

Objectives and Strategies:

Every citizen should be able to obtain help to meet their basic needs from a local agency, either by direct aid or referral.

 Continue to support local and state public service agencies

Continue to look for recreational opportunities for the citizens, while protecting the natural beauty and endangered species.

 Continued support of hiking, biking, and walking trails throughout the county.

 Continue to encourage development of recreational lake and water activities.

Provide sufficient protection of the citizens with law enforcement, fire and rescue services.
Access the overcrowding of inmates in the regional jail

 By accessing the feasibility of acquiring the deactivated state facility located in Gratton.

 Study the feasibility of satellite sheriff offices throughout the county

 Review the locations and services provided by fire and rescue squads in the county with the goal of expansions. The inclusion of more full time positions should be studied.

 Investigate the availability of more grants to enhance these services

 Encourage expansion of community involvement such as neighborhood watch groups.

Continue to develop more library services to meet the needs of all county citizens

 To encourage the improvement of computer technology, such as on-line/database services.

Maintain a safe responsive emergency service for the citizens of Tazewell County.

 The county should consider replacement and/or up-grades on the 911 communication infrastructure

 Access the need for new 911 center

 Recommend inter-intra jurisdictional capabilities be installed

 Examine the possibility of direct radio contact from school buses to 911 dispatch center

Goal Statement:

To provide efficient and improved quality public facilities and services, so that to the greatest extent feasible, all geographic sectors will be adequately served.

Objectives and Strategies:

Every citizen should be able to obtain help to meet their basic needs from a local agency, either by direct aid or referral.

[Continue to support local and state public service agencies

Continue to look for recreational opportunities for the citizens, while protecting the natural beauty and endangered species

(Continued support of hiking, biking, and walking trails throughout the county. (Continue to encourage development of recreational lake and water activities.

Provide sufficient protection of the citizens with law enforcement, fire and rescue services.

4, Access the overcrowding of inmates in the regional jail [By accessing the feasibility of acquiring the deactivated state facility located in Gratton. [Study the feasibility of satellite sheriff offices throughout the county

Review the locations and services provided by fire and rescue squads in the county with the goal of expansions. The inclusion of more full time positions should be studied.

Lilnvestigate the availability of more grants to enhance these services Encourage expansion of community involvement such as neighborhood watch groups. 5. Continue to develop more library services to meet the needs of all county citizens

[To encourage the improvement of computer technology, such as on-line/database services.

Maintain a safe responsive emergency service for the citizens of Tazewell County.

(The county should consider replacement and/or up-grades on the 911 communication infrastructure

DAceess the need for new 911 center (Recommend inter-intra jurisdictional capabilities be installed

Examine the possibility of direct radio contact from school buses to 911 dispatch center

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 49

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 50

VI. Infrastructure and Land Use
The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, education, and recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings, lands, and infrastructure that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community.

A. Information Technology Infrastructure Over the past ten years, Tazewell County has developed a Geographic Information System (GIS) which is used by the county government and staff. Within the last year, the County has made the internal system available for viewing and use for outside individuals and entities. The GIS is used to store visual and data sources related to road, house, parcel, as well as public and emergency service facility locations throughout the county. In order to fully utilize this important service, the technology infrastructure of the county must expand to include a robust internet network to transport and share this and other information technology data throughout the county and the region. The geography of the county is again a restrictive feature for this service and providing county-wide high-speed internet access is a challenge – but one worth accomplishing for the advancement and quality of life improvement for residents and businesses of the area. Projects recently completed have advanced the expansion of broadband internet lines along the primary roadways of the County, as well as providing internet access to the Tannersville area through the Tazewell County Wireless Authority.

B. Water and Sewer Tazewell County has continued to make improvements in water and sewer service throughout the county. In 2000, only 1.1 percent of owner-occupied housing units lacked complete plumbing facilities and only one percent of rental-occupied housing units fell into this category. The public wastewater facilities in the county are located in the Towns of Tazewell, Bluefield, Richlands, Pocahontas, Amonate, and the Tazewell County Public Service Authority facility at Wardell. Plans are underway to provide public sewer to several areas along the 19/460 corridor in the Central part of the county as well as to the areas of Kents Ridge, Baptist Valley, Jewell Ridge, Greens Chapel, Red Ash, Road Ridge, Bishop, Abbs Valley, and the Forest Hills and Willow Springs subdivisions. Funding such projects requires a multi-year planning and implementation program. Currently, septic systems provide sewer to the remaining areas of the county.

Public water service is provided by Tazewell County Public Service Authority (TCPSA). Facilities include plants in Claypool Hill and Raven/Doran, along with chlorinated wells in Buskill, Teller, Boissevain and Lake View. Bluefield, Tazewell, Richlands, and Pocahontas also operate water treatment facilities. Most of the 19/460 corridor is served by public water and is the targeted area for intensive development outside the towns. Planning is underway to extend water to many areas of the county and to improve flow and quality of water sources within the current system. Private wells provide water to the remainder of the county.

VL. Infrastructure and Land Use The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, education, and

recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings, lands, and infrastructure that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community.

A. Information Technology Infrastructure

Over the past ten years, Tazewell County has developed a Geographic Information System (GIS) which is used by the county government and staff. Within the last year, the County has made the internal system available for viewing and use for outside individuals and entities. The GIS is used to store visual and data sources related to road, house, parcel, as well as public and emergency service facility locations throughout the county. In order to fully utilize this important service, the technology infrastructure of the county must expand to include a robust internet network to transport and share this and other information technology data throughout the county and the region. The geography of the county is again a restrictive feature for this service and providing county-wide high-speed internet access is a challenge — but one worth accomplishing for the advancement and quality of life improvement for residents and businesses of the area. Projects recently completed have advanced the expansion of broadband internet lines along the primary roadways of the County, as well as providing internet access to the Tannersville area through the Tazewell County Wireless Authority.

B. Water and Sewer

Tazewell County has continued to make improvements in water and sewer service throughout the county. In 2000, only 1.1 percent of owner-occupied housing units lacked complete plumbing facilities and only one percent of rental-occupied housing units fell into this category. The public wastewater facilities in the county are located in the Towns of Tazewell, Bluefield, Richlands, Pocahontas, Amonate, and the Tazewell County Public Service Authority facility at Wardell. Plans are underway to provide public sewer to several areas along the 19/460 corridor in the Central part of the county as well as to the areas of Kents Ridge, Baptist Valley, Jewell Ridge, Greens Chapel, Red Ash, Road Ridge, Bishop, Abbs Valley, and the Forest Hills and Willow Springs subdivisions, Funding such projects requires a multi-year planning and implementation program, Currently, septic systems provide sewer to the remaining areas of the county.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 50

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 51

C. Solid Waste Management Tazewell County operates a county landfill near Springville on approximately 42 acres of land. It is authorized to receive non-hazardous and municipal waste. The county continues to study and consider recycling programming to reduce waste in the landfill as well as compaction efforts to reduce the size of waste entering the system. Continued assessment of these efforts is important and valuable as the maintenance and any future expansion of the landfill facility is very costly.

D. Telecommunications In order to assist with providing telecommunications services to citizens outside of the Towns of the County, the Board of Supervisors saw fit to create the Tazewell County Wireless Authority. The first and only project completed thus far by the Authority is the supplying of wireless internet to the community of Tannersville.

Cellular towers provide cellular communications services to most of the Towns within the County, as well as to the areas along the primary corridors. Unfortunately, this leaves a large part of the County without service. Over the last five years, cellular providers have made an impact on many of these areas, but there are many mountain and valley areas without any service at all.

INFRASTRUCTURE

SUMMARY OF NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Tazewell County provides many services and amenities to the residents of Tazewell County.
These services include water, sewer, solid waste removal, GIS mapping, and alternative energy. Because the growth in Tazewell County has occurred in and around the five towns located in Tazewell County, these services and amenities have been centralized in and around these areas.

Tazewell County has many natural resources which include but are not limited to coal, methane gas and wind. These natural resources need to be considered in providing alternative energy. Natural gas is provided to the Tazewell County residences that live in the Town of Bluefield and the Falls Mills area. Tazewell County should assess the possibility of converting coal bed methane to natural gas and to provide an alternative energy source for the entire county. Another alternative energy source that Tazewell County needs to assess is wind energy. With the rising energy costs, wind energy has the potential to provide supplemental energy needs. Tazewell County has identified developed property in the western and northern portions of the County which previously were home to strip mining operations. These areas, due to their location, topography, and proximity to existing heavy power transmission lines would be best suited to renewable energy projects.

Tazewell County should consider the adoption of a Wind Energy Ordinance. By the adoption of this ordinance Tazewell County can ensure the infrastructure and safety of the public being addressed during the construction of the wind turbines, while supplying an alternate energy source.

Telecommunications in Tazewell County are centered around the Towns because this is where the majority of county residents live. Tazewell County needs to assess how to provide telecommunications to the entire county. These telecommunications should include broadband, cell

C. Solid Waste Management

Tazewell County operates a county landfill near Springville on approximately 42 acres of land. It is authorized to receive non-hazardous and municipal waste. The county continues to study and consider recycling programming to reduce waste in the landfill as well as compaction efforts to reduce the size of waste entering the system. Continued assessment of these efforts is important and valuable as the maintenance and any future expansion of the landfill facility is very costly.

D. Telecommunications

In order to assist with providing telecommunications services to citizens outside of the Towns of the County, the Board of Supervisors saw fit to create the Tazewell County Wireless Authority. The first and only project completed thus far by the Authority is the supplying of wireless internet to the community of Tannersville.

INFRASTRUCTURE SUMMARY OF NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

‘Tazewell County provides many services and amenities to the residents of Tazewell County. These services include water, sewer, solid waste removal, GIS mapping, and alternative energy. Because the growth in Tazewell County has occurred in and around the five towns located in Tazewell County, these services and amenities have been centralized in and around these areas.

‘Tazewell County has many natural resources which include but are not limited to coal, methane gas and wind. These natural resources need to be considered in providing alternative energy. Natural gas is provided to the Tazewell County residences that live in the Town of Bluefield and the Falls Mills area. Tazewell County should assess the possibility of converting coal bed methane to natural gas and to provide an alternative energy source for the entire county. Another alternative energy source that Tazewell County needs to assess is wind energy. With the rising energy costs, wind energy has the potential to provide supplemental energy needs. Tazewell County has identified developed property in the western and northern portions of the County which previously were home to strip mining operations. These areas, due to their location, topography, and proximity to existing heavy power transmission lines would be best suited to renewable energy projects.

Telecommunications in Tazewell County are centered around the Towns because this is where

the majority of county residents live. Tazewell County needs to assess how to provide

telecommunications to the entire county. These telecommunications should include broadband, cell Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan SI

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 52

phone service, and cable. An area of concern with telecommunications is the need to expand the emergency communications system. Tazewell county should develop a written communication plan and provide at least 95% coverage for hand-held radios throughout the county.

Goal: To expand Tazewell County’s Infrastructure to cover the entire county.

Implementation of Goal: Good planning and communication are a must to achieve all the desired elements of the infrastructure throughout the county.

Objective and Strategies

Increase cooperation and communication between towns and county government regarding infrastructure needs and services
Develop a plan to extend public water to the entire county.

 Identify any county/town connections

 Identify delivery rates at the connections

 Establish and identify available source and production capacities

 Recommendation to include towns in 604B study

 Identify funding sources that aid in the elimination of inadequate sewage disposal

Develop a plan to extend public sewer to the entire county

 Identify county/town and regional project connections

 Establish and identify source discharge points

 Development of agreements for use of sewer lines

 Identify capacity for treatment and line delivery

Provide more accessible solid waste convenience areas with adequate site locations and staffing
Develop a plan to extend the life of the landfill.

 Study the economical long-term development of the land fill

 Purchase a tire shredder

 Study and implement a re-cycling program

phone service, and cable. An area of concern with telecommunications is the need to expand the emergency communications system, Tazewell county should develop a written communication plan and provide at least 95% coverage for hand-held radios throughout the county.

Goal: To expand Tazewell County’s Infrastructure to cover the entire county.

Implementation of Goal: Good planning and communication are a must to achieve all the desired elements of the infrastructure throughout the county.

Objective and Strategies

Increase cooperation and communication between towns and county government regarding infrastructure needs and services
Develop a plan to extend public water to the entire county. Lildentify any county/town connections Cildentify delivery rates at the connections [Dstablish and identify available source and production capacities (Recommendation to include towns in 604B study

[ildentify funding sources that aid in the elimination of inadequate sewage disposal

Develop a plan to extend public sewer to the entire county [ldentify county/town and regional project connections

CEstablish and identify source di:

harge points [Development of agreements for use of sewer lines (ldentify capacity for treatment and line delivery

4, Provide more accessible solid waste convenience areas with adequate site locations and staffing

Develop a plan to extend the life of the landfill. CStudy the economical long-term development of the land fill (Purchase a tire shredder

(Study and implement a re-cycling program

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 52

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 53

Develop a plan to expand the mapping network

 Expand GIS infrastructure to allow towns and other entities within county to have access to GIS system

 Coordinate water/sewer infrastructure of county/towns

 Each entity should provide information to county GIS coordinator to enhance mapping

Develop a plan to give Tazewell County residents an alternative energy source

 Include taps into the coal bed methane transmission lines as they are being constructed

 Pursue agreements with Coal Bed Methane companies to convert methane into natural gas for use by Tazewell County residents.

 Develop and Adopt a Wind Energy Ordinance.

 Develop and Adopt a Zoning Ordinance.

Develop a plan to provide telecommunications to the entire county

 Aggregation of governmental functions

 Study the establishment of county and town’s consolidation of operations and maintenance facilities for broadband

 Utilize the Tazewell County Wireless Authority to develop telecommunications projects using available funds.

 Identify cell phone service deficiencies

 Identify broadband service deficiencies

Develop a plan to expand the mapping network

CJExpand GIS infrastructure to allow towns and other entities within county to have access to GIS system

(Coordinate water/sewer infrastructure of county/towns

[Each entity should provide information to county GIS coordinator to enhance mapping

Develop a plan to give Tazewell County residents an alternative energy source

[lnclude taps into the coal bed methane transmission lines as they are being constructed

CiPursue agreements with Coal Bed Methane companies to convert methane into natural gas for use by Tazewell County residents.

[Develop and Adopt a Wind Energy Ordinance.

[Develop and Adopt a Zoning Ordinance.

Develop a plan to provide telecommunications to the entire county CDAggregation of governmental functions

[Study the establishment of county and town’s consolidation of operations and maintenance facilities for broadband

(Utilize the Tazewell County Wireless Authority to develop telecommunications projects using available funds.

[ildentify cell phone service deficiencies

Cldentify broadband service deficiencies

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 33

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 54

D. Land Use

Land Use Tools The County is tasked with managing the various land uses within the county to promote the health, safety, and welfare of all citizens. There are tools available to the county staff and governmental bodies to help with this effort. These currently include the subdivision ordinance, health and building regulations and inspections, the future land use map, as well as utility and infrastructure development and investment.

Tazewell County is home to rolling hills, fertile valleys and steep cliffs and rises. This geography is culturally and economically important to the residents and visitors of the region. The protection of these resources and of the scenic beauty of the county act as a great resource to the county’s economic development. The ridgelines of the county provide the majestic views that attract tourism and encourage residential development in the county.

Tazewell County may also pursue various state and national programs that support land preservation.
One such program is the Transfer/Purchase of Development Rights (TDR and PDR) program. This program is an economic and conservation tool to protect valuable farmland, forestland, and sensitive environmental areas in the county. It is a voluntary program that compensates owners of targeted property for their willingness to accept permanent deed restrictions on their land that limits future industrial, commercial, and residential development on the property. Easements are executed once fair market value is assessed and compensated to the owner of property. This compensation can come in the form of cash payment from a local government (under the PDR arm of the program) or from a private source who wishes to transfer the development rights of the targeted property to another property designated as a recipient land area (the TDR version). Once the easement is in place, the landowner still owns the land and retains all private property rights, including the opportunity to sell or give the land to heirs. The development rights are the only restricted rights under the compensated PDR/TDR easement.

The future land use map provides a visual representation of what citizens hope for development of Tazewell County. However, without land use regulations, this ideal land development pattern remains just that, a hope. Ownership of property is the driving factor behind its use and the type of development that can be expected under this system is individually motivated and driven. The county can limit the extension of infrastructure and services in targeted areas where growth is not desired.
Additionally, the use of specified regulations of targeted areas of the county cannot only protect important and sensitive lands, it can also encourage the type and density of development desired in other areas of the county. The Code of Virginia allows for a zoning ordinance to be passed as a means of land use management. Tazewell County currently has no zoning outside of corporate limits of the

D. Land Use

Land Use Tools

The County is tasked with managing the various land uses within the county to promote the health, safety, and welfare of all citizens. There are tools available to the county staff and governmental bodies to help with this effort. These currently include the subdivision ordinance, health and building regulations and inspections, the future land use map, as well as utility and infrastructure development and investment.

Tazewell County may also pursue various state and national programs that support land preservation. One such program is the Transfer/Purchase of Development Rights (TDR and PDR) program. This program is an economic and conservation tool to protect valuable farmland, forestland, and sensitive environmental areas in the county. It is a voluntary program that compensates owners of targeted property for their willingness to accept permanent deed restrictions on their land that limits future industrial, commercial, and residential development on the property. Easements are executed once fair market value is assessed and compensated to the owner of property. This compensation can come in the form of cash payment from a local government (under the PDR arm of the program) or from a private source who wishes to transfer the development rights of the targeted property to another property designated as a recipient land area (the TDR version). Once the easement is in place, the landowner still owns the land and retains all private property rights, including the opportunity to sell or give the land to heirs. The development rights are the only restricted rights under the compensated PDR/TDR easement.

The future land use map provides a visual representation of what citizens hope for development of Tazewell County. However, without land use regulations, this ideal land development pattern remains just that, a hope. Ownership of property is the driving factor behind its use and the type of, development that can be expected under this system is individually motivated and driven. The county can limit the extension of infrastructure and services in targeted areas where growth is not desired. Additionally, the use of specified regulations of targeted areas of the county cannot only protect important and sensitive lands, it can also encourage the type and density of development desired in other areas of the county. The Code of Virginia allows for a zoning ordinance to be passed as a means of land use management. Tazewell County currently has no zoning outside of corporate limits of the

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 34

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 55

five municipalities. These municipalities each have their own zoning ordinance, which they are responsible for overseeing and enforcing. In the future, a District or County-wide zoning ordinance could be used as a tool for land use management.

Environment and Land Use Summary of needs and opportunities

The landscape provides rolling hills, fertile valleys, and the scenic vistas for both the residents and visitors of Tazewell County, but with this scenic beauty comes environmental problems. The following is a summary of items indentified that hamper the preservation of the sensitive areas and open space.

Tazewell County contains surface and ground water resources of varying quality. Even though the diverse landscape and open space available in the county supports favorable conditions for water quality, past development has had harmful impacts within parts of the county. The county has several established watersheds within its boundaries that are being negatively impacted by soil erosion, storm water runoff, and agricultural runoff that has caused our streams and rivers to be designated as “impaired streams” by the Department of Environmental Quality. The Bluestone River and the Upper Clinch River are among the rivers that have this designation. Another contributor to the streams designation is the certain construction of communities near streams that are located within the 100 year flood plain. Tazewell County has a Flood Damage Ordinance, but construction within the flood plain should be discouraged and preservation of greenways/blueways should be encouraged. In addition to the above, failing septic systems and Municipal Waste Water Treatment Plant collection systems in need of repair are contributing to the impaired stream designation and could have harmful effects on the ground water located within Tazewell County. Adequate supplies of clean surface water and potable groundwater are vital to the economic and cultural well-being of Tazewell County.

Most of the county is underlain by limestone and dolomite rocks of the Ordovician and Cambrian ages. Usually, the carbonate hardness is high, and water is classified from moderately hard to hard. Acid conditions and iron are also encountered. Springs in the areas underlain by rocks constitute an important source of groundwater that are integral parts of the water supply. Experience has shown however that the water from these formations are susceptible to contamination from surface water and may require treatment. Karst features are severe limiting factors for the building environment of commercial, industrial, and residential development in the county. Adequate availability of clean water to sustain existing development and to foster future growth is critical.

Significant land use has changed from cropland use to grazing land us. Water quality issues of sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorous continue to be problems due to livestock access to streams.
Erosion from new construction sites is regulated through the county’s Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance, which requires specific measures to be taken when any land area of 10,000 square feet or

Environment and Land Use

Summary of needs and opportunities

Most of the county is underlain by limestone and dolomite rocks of the Ordovician and Cambrian ages. Usually, the carbonate hardness is high, and water is classified from moderately hard to hard. Acid conditions and iron are also encountered. Springs in the areas underlain by rocks constitute an important source of groundwater that are integral parts of the water supply. Experience has shown however that the water from these formations are susceptible to contamination from surface water and may require treatment, Karst features are severe limiting factors for the building environment of commercial, industrial, and residential development in the county. Adequate availability of clean water to sustain existing development and to foster future growth is critical.

Significant land use has changed from cropland use to grazing land us. Water quality issues of sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorous continue to be problems due to livestock access to streams Erosion from new construction sites is regulated through the county’s Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance, which requires specific measures to be taken when any land area of 10,000 square feet or

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 35

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 56

more is disturbed, including single-family homes.

Tazewell County supports the concept that proper management of forested property can protect soil, water quality, and wildlife. Erosion and sediment control practices that at least adhere to guidelines outlined by the Department of Conservation and Recreation are important to maintain while conducting forestry activities.

Urban Forest (Green Infrastructure)

The Virginia Department of Forestry has implemented a new program focused on establishing and maintaining trees located in urban areas. This is primarily in towns, but also includes areas where there is a significant level of buildup. Federal and state grant funds are available to support these programs, whether it be for education, startup, or maintenance. The benefits of this program include positive impacts on both the community and the surrounding ecosystem.

The use of the such forests reduce average air temperatures, sequester carbon, absorb stormwater, and provide an aesthetic benefit to the areas where they are located. VDOF has indicated that they can assist in grant requests, as well as recommendations for the best planting sites and species. This program will focus on the health and function of individual trees, not just disposal of damaged or fallen trees.

Goal: Improve the environmental quality of Tazewell County by conserving its natural and cultural resources and protecting them from exploitation and misuse.

Implementation of the Goal: This can be achieved through orderly development of the county and maintenance of a balance between rural and urban land uses.

Objectives and Strategies:

Development and adoption of zoning ordinance for the county.

 Prioritization of development and protection goals for land in the county

 Assessment and accurate mapping of land values and uses

 Assessment and mapping of prime agricultural lands

 Assessment and mapping of environmentally sensitive areas

 Assessment and mapping recreation and open spaces

 Adopt Ridgeline Protection Ordinance language in to county ordinance structure

more is disturbed, including single-family homes.

Urban Forest (Green Infrastructure)

Goal: Improve the environmental quality of Tazewell County by conserving its natural and cultural resources and protecting them from exploitation and misuse.

Implementation of the Goal: This can be achieved through orderly development of the county and maintenance of a balance between rural and urban land uses.

Obje es and Strategies:

Development and adoption of zoning ordinance for the county. CoPrioritization of development and protection goals for land in the county [Assessment and accurate mapping of land values and uses [Assessment and mapping of prime agricultural lands [Assessment and mapping of environmentally sensitive areas [Assessment and mapping recreation and open spaces

[Adopt Ridgeline Protection Ordinance language in to county ordinance structure

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 56

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 57

 Evaluate state and local models to develop local ordinance for utilizing the PDR/TDR land preservation program for Tazewell County

 Adequate funding for implementation and enforcement of codes and ordinances

Protection of natural and building environment from flooding and storm water runoff

 Map watersheds, sensitive aquifers, floodplains, and steep slopes

 Protect sensitive aquifer recharge areas in the county

 Develop comprehensive storm water management programming

 Develop and enforce floodplain protection programming in the county

Promote Regional land development and protection cooperation

 Work with local jurisdiction to coordinate development of land between Russell/Bluefield/Mercer and Tazewell

 Coordination with neighboring jurisdiction for natural resource protection and promotion

 Work with local, regional, and national agencies to ensure protection of endangered species

 Support farm services agency Conservation Reserve Easement Program (CREP)

Protect prime agricultural lands

 Research Land Trust and conservation easement options and provide training and appropriate application

 Support and promote cluster development in residential areas

 Control development in karst agricultural areas, i.e. Burkes Garden and The Cove

 Soil conditions may impose certain restrictions on development. When adverse soil conditions occur in combination with other prohibitive factors such as steep slope or located in an area with sinkholes, development may become completely infeasible

Protect the county’s timberland resource from overuse and misuse while encouraging the protection of plant and animal habitats.

 Support the enforcement of state and federal regulations on logging operations by the Virginia Department of Forestry or other responsible agencies.

(Evaluate state and local models to develop local ordinance for utilizing the PDR/TDR land preservation program for Tazewell County

[TaAdequate funding for implementation and enforcement of codes and ordinances 2. Protection of natural and building environment from flooding and storm water runoff

(Map watersheds, sensitive aquifers, floodplains, and steep slopes

CProtect sensitive aquifer recharge areas in the county

[Develop comprehensive storm water management programming

(Develop and enforce floodplain protection programming in the county

Promote Regional land development and protection cooperation

(Work with local jurisdiction to coordinate development of land between Russell/Bluefield/Mercer and Tazewell

(Coordination with neighboring jurisdiction for natural resource protection and promotion

(Work with local, regional, and national agencies to ensure protection of endangered species

[Support farm services agency Conservation Reserve Easement Program (CREP) 4, Protect prime agricultural lands

(CiResearch Land Trust and conservation easement options and provide training and appropriate application

CiSupport and promote cluster development in residential areas (Control development in karst agricultural areas, i.e. Burkes Garden and The Cove

DSoil conditions may impose certain restrictions on development. When adverse soil conditions occur in combination with other prohibitive factors such as steep slope or located in an area with sinkholes, development may become completely infeasible

Protect the county’s timberland resource from overuse and misuse while encouraging the protection of plant and animal habitats.

(Support the enforcement of state and federal regulations on logging operations by the Virginia Department of Forestry or other responsible agencies.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 37

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 58

 Encourage local landowners to seek technical assistance from the Virginia Department of Forestry regarding the proper use of their timber resources.

 Encourage the participation of local landowners in the Forest Stewardship program and “showcase” exemplary land management plans.

 Encourage the establishment of Agricultural and Forestal Districts and conservation easements as voluntary measures by landowners to protect their forestlands

[Encourage local landowners to seek technical assistance from the Virginia Department of Forestry regarding the proper use of their timber resources.

(Encourage the participation of local landowners in the Forest Stewardship program and “showcase” exemplary land management plans.

(Encourage the establishment of Agricultural and Forestal Districts and conservation easements as voluntary measures by landowners to protect their forestlands

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 38

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 59

VII. Education and Training
The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, education, and recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings, lands, and infrastructure that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community.

Tazewell County residents also have a wide and rich variety of learning and training opportunities within easy grasp and there is strong commitment to the maintenance and advancement of the facilities and resources required to provide this important lifelong learning environment. The county is home to 16 public school facilities, Southwest Virginia Community College, Bluefield College, and a satellite campus

program at the community college for Old Dominion University. The county oversees and funds the provision of public educational opportunities for kindergarten through 12th grades. Higher educational opportunities are also available from several institutions within easy driving distance of the county.
Due to advances in technology, there are many on-line learning and training opportunities that citizens and businesses can take advantage of without leaving their homes or places of work.

A. Public Education The Tazewell County School Division, in partnership with parents and the community, is committed to preparing students to become productive members of society by recognizing that each student is unique and possesses the potential to learn.

VII. Education and Training

The citizens of Tazewell County have access to a myriad of services for health, welfare, education, and recreation throughout the county. These facilities include buildings, lands, and infrastructure that provide for the quality of life as well as the health and safety of a community.

Tazewell County residents also have a wide and rich variety of leaming and training opportunities within easy grasp and there is strong commitment to the maintenance and advancement of the facilities and resources required to provide this important lifelong learning environment. The county is home to 16 public school facilities, Southwest Virginia Community College, Bluefield College, and a satellite campus

program at the community college for Old Dominion University. The county oversees and funds the

provision of public educational opportunities for kindergarten through 12" grades. Higher educational opportunities are also available from several institutions within easy driving distance of the county.

Due to advances in technology, there are many on-line learning and training opportunities that citizens

and businesses can take advantage of without leaving their homes or places of work.

A. Public Education

The Tazewell County School Division, in partnership with parents and the community, is committed to preparing students to become productive members of society by recognizing that each student is unique and possesses the potential to learn.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 39

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 60

Figure 7.1

2013 - 2014 Tazewell County Public School Enrollment

School Enrollment Grades Offered

Graham High 553 9-12 grades

Richlands High 711 9-12 grades

Tazewell High 597 9-12 grades

Graham Middle 436 6-8 grades

Richlands Middle 567 6-8 grades

Tazewell Middle 465 6-8 grades

Abb’s Valley Elementary 143 PK-5 grades

Cedar Bluff Elementary 438 K-5 grades

Dudley Primary 273 PK-2 grades

Graham Intermediate 282 3-5 grades

North Tazewell Elementary 302 PK-5 grades

Raven Elementary 201 PK-5 grades

Richlands Elementary 553 PK-5 grades

Springville Elementary 148 PK-5 grades

Tazewell Elementary 507 PK-5 grades

Tazewell Co. Career & Tech Center NA* High school – adult

Tazewell County Public Schools, August 2013

*The Center does not have separate enrollment

The Tazewell County Career and Technical Center is a vocational center located on the grounds of Tazewell High School but is operated as a separate school with its own administration. It offers occupational training to all the high schools in Tazewell County. In addition to the trades offered during the school day and week, there are four trade extension classes in operation two nights per week. Because of the request for additional vocational offerings in Tazewell County, the Tazewell County Vocational Center has plans for an expansion to their building to include four more trade classes. Evening Classes include Welding and Carpentry.

Figure 7.1

2013 - 2014 Tazewell County Public School Enrollment

School Enrollment Grades Offered

Graham High 353 9-12 grades Richlands High ™m 9-12 grades ‘Tazewell High 397 9-12 grades Graham Middle 436 6-8 grades Richlands Middle 567 6-8 grades Tazewell Middle 465 6-8 grades ‘Abb’s Valley Elementary 143 PK-5 grades Cedar Bluff Elementary 438 K-5 grades Dudley Primary 273 PK-2 grades Graham Intermediate 282 3-5 grades North Tazewell Elementary 302 PK-5 grades Raven Elementary 201 PK-5 grades Richlands Elementary 553 PK-5 grades Springville Elementary 148 PK-5 grades ‘Tazewell Elementary 307 PK-S grades ‘Tazewell Co. Career & Tech Center NA* High school — adult,

Tazewell County Public Schools, August 2013 “The Center does not have separate enrollment

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 60

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 61

Figure 7.2

2013 - 2014 Tazewell County Vocational School Enrollment

Class Enrollment - AM

Enrollment - PM Total

Auto Body Technician 20 16 36

Building Trades 9 11 20

Diesel Technician 18 11 29

Carpentry 17 12 29

Small Engine Technician 14 17 31

Cosmetology 46 23 69

Nail Technician 6 6

Computer Aided Drafting 13 10 23

Auto Service Technician 19 20 39

Welding 13 16 29

Masonry 14 16 30

Nursing (2nd Year) 14 14

Total Enrollment 183 172 355

2013 - 2014 Tazewell County Vocational School Enrollment

Figure 7.2

Class Enrollment - |Enrollment - PM Total AM Auto Body Technician 20 16 36 Building Trades 9 mn 20 Diesel Technician 18 ll 29 Carpentry 7 12 29 Small Engine Technician 14 17 31 Cosmetology % B 0 Nail Technician 6 6 Computer Aided Drafting 13 10 23 Auto Service Technician 19 20 39 Welding 3 16 29 Masonry 14 16 30 Nursing (2nd Year) 14 14 Total Enrollment 183 172 355 Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 61

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 62

Figure 7.3

Tazewell County High School SOL Scores 2011-2013

% Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass

Reading Writing Algebra I Geometry Algebra II

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

Tazewell 94 93 87 93 93 82 90 66 60 81 64 68 91 65 71

Buchanan 94 90 86 89 93 80 97 80 75 85 68 75 98 61 89

Dickenson 93 90 82 88 87 84 94 70 52 93 72 78 84 53 66

Russell 95 97 87 91 95 81 93 65 60 87 80 76 85 48 69

Virginia 94 94 89 93 93 87 94 75 76 87 74 76 91 69 76

Virginia School Report Card, Virginia Department of Education, 2013.

% Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass

Biology Chemistry Earth Science VA/US History World

Geography

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

2010

2011

2012

2013

Tazewell 89 91 72 97 93 93 92 92 89 84 82 81 81 78 86

Buchanan 91 94 74 89 97 82 87 93 81 82 88 79 84 89 85

Dickenson 89 90 76 97 100 82 87 89 77 80 88 90 96 87 81

Russell 92 95 80 85 99 98 92 92 80 79 83 81 79 78 73

Virginia 90 92 83 93 93 86 89 90 83 83 85 86 85 85 86

Virginia School Report Card, Virginia Department of Education, 2013.

Figure 7.3

Tazewell County High School SOL Scores 2011-2013

% Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass Reading Writing Algebra I Geometry Algebra I 2010 ] 2011 ] 2012 | 2010 ] 2011 | 2012 | 2010 ] 2011 | 2012 | 2010 | 2011 | 20I2 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 aon | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 Tazewell | 94 [ 93 [87 | 93 [93 | 82 | 90 | 66 | 60 | a1 | 64 | o8 | or | 65 | 71 Buchanan | 94 [90 [86 | 89 | 93 [80 | 97 | 80 | 75 | 85 [os | 75 [98 | or | 89 Dickenson | 93 | 90 | 82 | 88 | 87 | 84 [ 94 | 70 | 52 | 93 | 72 | 78 | 84 | 53 | 66 Russell 95 | 97 | 87 [or | 95 [ar | 93 | 65 | 60 | 87 | 80 | 76 | 85 [48 | 69 Virginia | 94 [ 94 [89 | 93 [ 93 | 87 [ 94 | 75 | 76 | 87 | 74 | 76 | 91 | 9 | 76 Virginia School Report Card, Virginia Department of Education, 2013. % Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass % Pass World Biology Chemistry Earth Science | VA/US History | Geography 2010] 2011 | 2012 | 2010 ] 2011 | 2012 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 aor | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 201s | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 Tazewell | 89 [91 | 72 | 97 [93 | 93 [92 | 92 | 89 | a4 | 82 | ai | 81 | 78 | 86 Buchanan | 91 | 94 [74 | 89 | 97 | 82 | 87 | 93 | 81 | 82 | a8 | 79 | 84 | 89 | 85 Dickenson | 89 | 90 | 76 | 97 | 100 | 82 | 87 | 39 | 77 | 80 | 88 | 90 | 96 | 87 | 81 Russell 32 [95 [80 | 85 [99 [os | 92 [2 | 80] 79 |] sf 79 | we] Virginia | 90 | 92 [83 | 93 [ 93 | 86 | 89 | 90 | 83 | 83 [a5 | 86 | 85 | 85 | 86 Virginia School Report Card, Virginia Department of Education, 2013. Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 62

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 63

The Virginia Department of Education maintains school report cards on each public school within the Commonwealth. There is extensive data about curriculum, student performance and overall school assessments found in these reports that are accessible on-line through the Tazewell County Public Schools website, www.tazewell.k12.va.us. Figure 5.2 shows the Tazewell County High School Standards of Learning scores for the 2011-2013 school years. Tazewell County is meeting state standards in all categories of assessment. In addition to this state assessment process, the county developed a Comprehensive Plan Education Committee in January of 2006 that developed an extensive list of goals, objectives and strategies for implementation around issues and future visions of the educational resources for the county. This committee was made up of public educators and administrators, higher education personnel as well as social, community and economic development representatives from across the county and region. The primary targets for improvement and investment were career awareness and exploration, career readiness, emotional wellness, substance abuse prevention, and nutrition and physical well-being. Specific goals and strategies for addressing these needs can be found in the goal development section of this chapter.

Figure 7.4

2010-2012 Cohort Graduation Rates for All Students

Cumberland Plateau Planning District

Division 2010 2011 2012

Tazewell 69% 73% 74%

Buchanan 77% 81% 76%

Dickenson 79% 81% 81%

Russell 77% 81% 81%

Virginia 82% 84% 83%

Virginia School Report Card,

Virginia Department of Education, 2013. (Federal Graduation Indicator)

Tazewell County Public Schools strive to meet the changing needs of students and the communities that are home to the school facilities. Figure 5.3 indicates that Tazewell County had the lowest graduation rate in the Planning District in 2011-2013. Addressing the barriers for improving graduation rates in Tazewell County is a critical need in the school system. Teachers and administrators continually explore ways to address needs of students and support the development and quality of life desires of the community at large. The core beliefs of the public educational system in the county are reflected in the mission statement: The Tazewell County School Division, in partnership

The Virginia Department of Education maintains school report cards on each public school within the Commonwealth, There is extensive data about curriculum, student performance and overall school assessments found in these reports that are accessible on-line through the Tazewell County Public Schools website, www.tazewell.kI2.vaus. Figure 5,2 shows the Tazewell County High School Standards of Learning scores for the 2011-2013 school years. Tazewell County is meeting state standards in all categories of assessment, In addition to this state assessment process, the county developed a Comprehensive Plan Education Committee in January of 2006 that developed an extensive list of goals, objectives and strategies for implementation around issues and future visions of the educational resources for the county. This committee was made up of public educators and administrators, higher education personnel as well as social, community and economic development representatives from across the county and region. The primary targets for improvement and investment were career awareness and exploration, career readiness, emotional wellness, substance abuse prevention, and nutrition and physical well-being. Specific goals and strategies for addressing these needs can be found in the goal development section of this chapter.

Figure 7.4 2010-2012 Cohort Graduation Rates for All Students

Cumberland Plateau Planning District

Division 2010 2011 2012 Tazewell 69% 73% TH% Buchanan, TI% 31% 76% Dickenson 79% 81% 81% Russell TI% 31% 31% Virginia 82% 84% 83%

Virginia School Report Card, Virginia Department of Education, 2013. (Federal Graduation Indicator)

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 64

with parents and the community, is committed to preparing students to become productive members of society by recognizing that each student is unique and possesses the potential to learn.

B. Higher Education The Commonwealth of Virginia offers many higher educational opportunities throughout the state and Tazewell County benefits from the location of a valuable and community-integrated community college (SVCC). Additionally, Old Dominion University offers course work through the SVCC curriculum.
Bluefield is home to an excellent private Baptist college, Bluefield College.
Many graduating high school students from Tazewell County choose to attend

these local institutions of higher learning as do other, non-traditional students and participants. The College Choices table (Figure 6.4) shows the distribution of Tazewell County residents at schools in Virginia.

Figure 7.5

Tazewell County College Enrollment Fall 2010

Virginia Institution

Number of Students Enrolled

Percent of Total Students attending

VA Institutions

Southwest VA Community College 1,314 68.3

Virginia Tech 87 4.5

Radford University 85 4.4

Bluefield College 82 4.3

University of Virginia at Wise 53 2.8

Wytheville Community College 50 2.6

Liberty University 43 2.2

Old Dominion University 34 1.8

Virginia Commonwealth University 29 1.5

Emory & Henry College 21 1.1

University of Virginia 16 0.8

Other VA Community Colleges 31 1.6

Other VA 4-year College/University 71 3.7

VCC Institution Research Office, July 2011

with parents and the community, is committed to preparing students to become productive members of society by recognizing that each student is unique and possesses the potential to learn.

Higher Education The Commonwealth of Virginia offers many higher educational opportunities throughout the state and Tazewell County benefits from the location of a valuable and community-integrated community college (SVCC). Additionally, Old Dominion University offers course work through the SVCC curriculum. Bluefield is home to an excellent private Baptist college, Bluefield College. Many graduating high school students from Tazewell County choose to attend

these local institutions of higher learning as do other, non-traditional students and participants. The College

Choices table (Figure 6.4) shows the distribution of Tazewell County residents at schools in Virginia.

Figure 7.5

‘Tazewell County College Enrollment Fall 2010

Number of Percent of Total Students Students attending Virginia Institution Enrolled VA Institutions ‘Southwest VA Community College 1314 683 Virginia Tech 7 45 Radford University 85 a4 Bluefield College 2 43 University of Virginia at Wise 33 28 Wytheville Community College 30 26 Liberty University B 22 (Old Dominion University 4 18 Virginia Commonwealth University 29 15 Emory & Henry College 21 7 University of Virginia 16 08 Other VA Community Colleges 31 16 Other VA 4-year College/University 71 37

VCC Institution Research Office, July 2011 Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 64

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 65

C. Continuing Education Offering opportunities for training and personal growth are important aspects of the quality of life for Tazewell County residents. SVCC and Bluefield College offer many opportunities for job training and personal development and advancement to adult learners in the county. Additionally, the community facilities made available to residents through the public school systems create a myriad of opportunities for learning and recreation. Maintaining these facilities for full community enjoyment is an important aspect of the county government. The cooperative and efficient use of these community assets is critical to getting the most benefit for all citizens from these significant facility investments.

In order to maintain the highest quality facilities that benefit the greatest number of citizens, the county government and staff must assess investment in the best cost-benefit scenarios. As with all community facilities, the initial investments are very large and the maintenance is an annual commitment that can often be costly. Creating facilities in areas that are accessible and convenient to a broad range of citizens is necessary to meet the needs of residents and create the highest cost-benefit situation.

All residents are contributors to the construction and maintenance of community facilities, the largest and most predominant of which are schools. Neighborhood schools can be the anchor to a community and create opportunities for citizen engagement and learning at all levels. Multi-generational access to these facilities are not only cost effective, they are community-building opportunities. Learning is a lifelong adventure and Tazewell County supports that pursuit with programming and facilities for all residents.

C. Continuing Education

Offering opportunities for training and personal growth are important aspects of the quality of life for Tazewell County residents. SVCC and Bluefield College offer many opportunities for job training and personal development and advancement to adult learners in the county. Additionally, the community facilities made available to residents through the public school systems create a myriad of opportunities for learning and recreation. Maintaining these facilities for full community enjoyment is an important aspect of the county government, The cooperative and efficient use of these community assets is critical to getting the most benefit for all citizens from these significant facility investments,

All residents are contributors to the construction and maintenance of community facilities, the largest and most predominant of which are schools. Neighborhood schools can be the anchor to a community and create opportunities for citizen engagement and learning at all levels, Multi-generational access to these facilities are not only cost effective, they are community-building opportunities. Learning is a lifelong adventure and Tazewell County supports that pursuit with programming and facilities for all residents.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 65

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 66

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Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 67

Educational attainment has long been a measure of the growth potential and diversity of a community.
Tazewell County has shown an increase in all categories of educational attainment from 1990 to 2012 (Figure 6.5). In today’s dynamic workforce, educational advancement is critical for success and Tazewell County residents are mirroring state and national trends. Though still lagging in actual percentage numbers of people with advanced education compared to state and national averages, Tazewell County actually grew at a higher rate than the state and federal averages in several categories (significantly in the category of high school grad or higher).

Much progress has been made in Tazewell County Schools yet problems remain. The county developed a comprehensive Education Plan to address needed improvements and investments in career awareness, emotional wellness, substance abuse prevention and nutrition and physical well-being. Tazewell County’s high drop-out rate also highlights the need for innovative strategies to meet the needs of at risk students. It is also important that school administrators closely evaluate teacher performance before acquiring tenure.

Goal

To promote the advancement of quality public education by providing opportunities to increase education and training to ensure the highest educational standards and to improve the quality of life for all residents of Tazewell County.

Objectives and Strategies

To promote nutrition and physical well-being

Engage students, parents, teachers, food services

 professionals and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing division wide nutrition and physical activity policies.

 Support community based fitness programs for children in town fitness centers.

 All schools meet the nutrition recommendations of the U.S. dietary guidelines for Americans

 Nutrition should be integrated into the health and education and core curricular areas.

To work with related agencies to prevent substance abuse

 Develop community wide information dissemination for substance abuse prevention

 Expand the life skills program for children

 Implement a program to promote a healthy lifestyle for students

To promote emotional wellness

Educational attainment has long been a measure of the growth potential and diversity of a community Tazewell County has shown an increase in all categories of educational attainment from 1990 to 2012 (Figure 6.5). In today’s dynamic workforce, educational advancement is critical for success and Tazewell County residents are mirroring state and national trends. Though still lagging in actual percentage numbers of people with advanced education compared to state and national averages, Tazewell County actually grew at a higher rate than the state and federal averages in several categories (significantly in the category of high school grad or higher).

Much progress has been made in Tazewell County Schools yet problems remain, The county developed a comprehensive Education Plan to address needed improvements and investments in career awareness, emotional wellness, substance abuse prevention and nutrition and physical well-being. Tazewell County’s high drop-out rate also highlights the need for innovative strategies to meet the needs of at risk students. It is also important that school administrators closely evaluate teacher performance before acquiring tenure.

Goal

Objectives and Strategies

To promote nutrition and physical well-being Engage students, parents, teachers, food services

professionals and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing division wide nutrition and physical activity policies.

(Support community based fitness programs for children in town fitness centers.

CAI schools meet the nutrition recommendations of the U.S. dietary guidelines for ‘Americans

(Nutrition should be integrated into the health and education and core curricular areas. 2. To work with related agencies to prevent substance abuse

Develop community wide information dissemination for substance abuse prevention

CIExpand the life skills program for children

(lmplement a program to promote a healthy lifestyle for students

To promote emotional wellness

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan o7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 68

 Implement a zero tolerance for bullying/harassment

 Instruct children on internet safety

 Develop strategies to inform and counsel students in coping with divorce, abusive parents, grief and custody battles.

 Increase parenting classes

 Promote early mental health screenings

To continue to implement programs concerning career awareness and readiness

 Encourage a study to examine current and future career and technical needs in Tazewell County

 Develop a long range plan for workforce development

 Work with area colleges and other state and local agencies in identifying needs and opportunities for future careers.

 Focus on good work habits at an early age such as regular attendance using various incentives.

 Design and promote training and retraining programs.

 Encourage more classes in consumer economics

 Offer more high-tech training

To increase the percentage of adults in the county who are high school graduates or (equivalent)

 Continue to offer opportunities in adult education

 Promote programs such as “ race to GED,” scale, continuing education, and higher education.

 Develop industrial skills enhancements training and encourage business industries to provide employees the opportunity for basic skill training.

 Assist the Tazewell County School Board and other higher education institutions.

To provide a comfortable atmosphere for learning

 Install air conditioning in all Tazewell County Schools

 Employ teachers who are cognizant to students needs.

 Provide alternative education for disruptive students

[Lilmplement a zero tolerance for bullying/harassment Hilnstruct children on internet safety

(Develop strategies to inform and counsel students in coping with divorce, abusive parents, grief and custody battles.

Dilncrease parenting classes (Promote early mental health screenings 4. To continue to implement programs concerning career awareness and readiness

(Encourage a study to examine current and future career and technical needs in Tazewell County

(Develop a long range plan for workforce development

(Work with area colleges and other state and local agencies in identifying needs and opportunities for future careers.

(Focus on good work habits at an early age such as regular attendance using various incentives.

(Design and promote training and retraining programs. [Encourage more classes in consumer economics Doffer more high-tech training

To increase the percentage of adults in the county who are high school graduates or (equivalent)

[Continue to offer opportunities in adult education

(Promote programs such as “ race to GED,” scale, continuing education, and higher education.

[Develop industrial skills enhancements training and encourage business industries to provide employees the opportunity for basic skill training.

[Assist the Tazewell County School Board and other higher education institutions. 6. To provide a comfortable atmosphere for learning

Dittstall air conditioning in all Tazewell County Schools

(Employ teachers who are cognizant to students needs.

Provide alternative education for disruptive students Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 68

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 69

To reduce the dropout rate

 Address the issue of teen pregnancy

 Identify at-risk students and prepare an intensive program that enhances their self- esteem and feeling of success.

 Consider alternative education in the elementary grades

 Provide employment training opportunities that reflect student interests and strengths.

To encourage the growth of gravity and affordable childcare programs

 Increase the number of childcare centers to serve working mothers

 Instructive before and after school programs etc. latch-key

 Place emphasis on preparing toddlers for kindergarten

To provide parenting classes if possible to parents of children 1-4 years of age.

 Develop a program to provide opportunities for families to learn about the resources within the community

 Continue to encourage and offer opportunities for parents to become actively involved in the education of their children.

To reduce the dropout rate (JAdaress the issue of teen pregnancy

Cildentify at-risk students and prepare an intensive program that enhances their self- esteem and feeling of success.

CiConsider alternative education in the elementary grades

[Provide employment training opportunities that reflect student interests and strengths. 8. To encourage the growth of gravity and affordable childcare programs

Clnerease the number of childcare centers to serve working mothers

lnstructive before and after school programs etc. latch-key

Place emphasis on preparing toddlers for kindergarten 9. To provide parenting classes if possible to parents of children 1-4 years of age.

(Develop a program to provide opportunities for families to learn about the resources within the community

(Continue to encourage and offer opportunities for parents to become actively involved in the education of their children.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 69

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 70

VII. Economy and Culture Every community has a unique history. Though Tazewell County shares historic references with other westward expansion communities along the eastern coast of the United States, there are many attributes and influences that created this distinct community of work and culture. This area is connected to the geography both from economic connections of the natural resource bases that support agriculture, mining, and timber to the natural scenic beauty area reflected.

The core values held by Tazewell County citizens include the preservation of historic resources, a strong sense of community and family, and enjoyment of the environment. These values are evident by the local support of community associations, local chapters of the Chamber of Commerce, growth of historical societies, and preservation of cultural and historic sites and buildings.

A. Development and Structures Prior to 1880, Tazewell County’s economy was based in agriculture. Crop production and livestock were the basis for trade and wealth development along with a few trading post communities in the northern and western sectors of the county. With the discovery of rich coal seams near Pocahontas in the early 1880s, the economy took a major shift toward mining and coal-related industrial development. Boomtowns were literally erected overnight and although few of these coal- development based communities survive today, both Richlands and Pocahontas owe their existence to this era in the county’s history. The national decline in both the mining and agriculture economies has been felt here in Tazewell County. Though not as dramatic as the economic shift of the 1880s, Tazewell County faces challenges and opportunities in this time of economic change and redirection.
Industry and manufacturing related to the natural resources of the county remain important, but are not the growth industries of this century.

The Tazewell County economic development mission is to aggressively seek economic opportunities that enhance the business and residential communities of the county. The Tazewell County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) and the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors are dedicated to building and supporting a strong economic base that enhances the quality of life for citizens of the county. Realizing the importance of a diversified economic base, Tazewell County has a progressive labor environment and is positioned among the country’s northern most right-to-work counties. Continuing to work toward closer parity with the state’s average income is an important goal and

VII. Economy and Culture

Every community has a unique history. Though Tazewell County shares historic references with other westward expansion communities along the eastern coast of the United States, there are many attributes and influences that created this distinct community of work and culture, This area is connected to the geography both from economic connections of the natural resource bases that support agriculture, mining, and timber to the natural scenic beauty area reflected.

The core values held by Tazewell County citizens include the preservation of historic resources, a strong sense of community

and family, and enjoyment of the environment. These values are evident by the local support of community associations, local chapters of the Chamber of Commerce, growth of historical societies, and preservation of cultural

and historic sites. and buildings.

A. Development and Structures

Prior to 1880, Tazewell County’s economy was based in agriculture. Crop production and livestock were the basis for trade and wealth development along with a few trading post communities in the northern and western sectors of the county. With the discovery of rich coal seams near Pocahontas in the early 1880s, the economy took a major shift toward mining and coal-related industrial development. Boomtowns were literally erected overnight and although few of these coal- development based communities survive today, both Richlands and Pocahontas owe their existence to this era in the county’s history. The national decline in both the mining and agriculture economies has been felt here in Tazewell County. Though not as dramatic as the economic shift of the 1880s, Tazewell County faces challenges and opportunities in this time of economic change and redirection. Industry and manufacturing related to the natural resources of the county remain important, but are not the growth industries of this century.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 70

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 71

maintaining pace with income increases is absolutely necessary to ensure Tazewell County’s residents gain economic opportunities thus keeping them in the county.

The county supports strong and accessible educational and medical systems, low electric utility rates, and below average construction costs. Tazewell County has five successful existing industrial parks strategically located along U.S. 19/460 with a new development, The Bluestone, having been recently completed in the eastern section of Tazewell County.

Tazewell County’s community organizations, museums and libraries contribute greatly to the way of life in the county. The county’s lead organization for promotion of cultural arts is the Citizens for the Arts (CART) whose purpose is to provide a variety of cultural experiences and opportunities to area citizens and visitors. The Historic Crab Orchard Museum and Pioneer Park strive to preserve the history of the past. An active Arts-In-Education program provides the area schools with artist residencies in the performance fields that include art, music, and drama.

B. Current Industry and Development For more than 100 years, the basis employment of Tazewell County has been coal mining or mining related industries. Basis employment, by its nature, is found in industries that sell the majority of their goods and services outside of the area of the industry. Because this employer is also based in resource extraction, Tazewell County cannot rebuild the source of this employment nor has it benefited from the value-added industries related to the coal industry. This traditional economic driver has been underutilized for the county as the raw mineral extraction is the primary economy of the region while the value-added processing and retailing of this resource is sourced outside of Tazewell County. Figure 8.1 shows the major employers in Tazewell County today.
These businesses, though not always offering as high a wage as the mineral extraction industry, are building the new economy base in the county. The chart shows the major employers to largely be governmental and healthcare facilities, both with living wage opportunities for employees. Retail also holds a sizable share of the
employers in the county and with their relatively low wage job opportunities, this growing segment merits notice and assessment from the view of long term sustainability.

New expansions into tourism, primarily recreation related will affect the county positively. Both the Back of the Dragon and the “Original Pocahontas” ATV trail will boost the number of visitors who come to stay and play in our region. As time continues, this industry will play a greater part in the overall economics of the area, with lodging, restaurants, and other connected businesses.

The Bluestone Technology Center will also play a vital role in the economic success of the County in the future.

maintaining pace with income increases is absolutely necessary to ensure Tazewell County’s residents gain economic opportunities thus keeping them in the county.

The county supports strong and accessible educational and medical systems, low electric utility rates,

and below average construction costs. Tazewell County has five successful existing industrial parks strategically located along U.S. 19/460 with a new development, The Bluestone, having been recently completed in the easter section of Tazewell County.

Tazewell County’s community organizations, museums and libraries contribute greatly to the way of life in the county, The county’s lead organization for promotion of cultural arts is the Citizens for the Arts (CART) whose purpose is to provide a variety of cultural experiences and ‘opportunities to area citizens and visitors. The Historic Crab Orchard Museum and Pioneer Park strive to preserve the history of the past. An active Arts-In-Education program provides the area schools with artist residencies in the performance fields that include art, music, and drama

B. Current Industry and Development

For more than 100 years, the basis employment of Tazewell County has been coal mining or mining related industries. Basis employment, by its nature, is found in industries that sell the majority of their goods and services outside of the area of the industry. Because this employer is also based in resource extraction, Tazewell County cannot rebuild the source of this employment nor has it benefited from the value-added industries related to the coal industry. This traditional economic driver has been underutilized for the county as the raw mineral extraction is the primary economy of the region while the value-added processing and retailing of this resource is sourced outside of Tazewell County. Figure 8.1 shows the major employers in Tazewell County today. These businesses, though not always offering as high a wage as the mineral extraction industry, are building the new economy base in the county. The chart shows the major employers to largely be governmental and healthcare facilities, both with living wage opportunities for employees. Retail also holds a sizable share of the employers in the county and with their relatively low wage job opportunities, this growing segment merits notice and assessment from the view of long term sustainability

The Bluestone Technology Center will also play a vital role in the economic success of the County in the future.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 72

Figure 8.1

50 Largest Employers in Tazewell County, 2013

Rank Company Ownership Type Number of
Employees

1 Tazewell County School Board Local Government 1000 and over

2 Wal-Mart Private 500 to 999

3 Clinch Valley Medical Center Private 500 to 999

4 Cumberland Mountain Community Services Local Government 250 to 499

5 Southwest Virginia Community College State Government 250 to 499

6 Pocahontas State Correctional Center State Government 250 to 499

7 Lowe’s Home Centers, Inc. Private 100 to 249

8 Tazewell County, Virginia Local Government 100 to 249

9 McDonald’s Private 100 to 249

10 First Community Bank Private 100 to 249

11 Food City Private 100 to 249

12 Magic Mart Private 100 to 249

13 Bluefield College Private 100 to 249

14 Joy Technologies Private 100 to 249

15 Heritage Hall Private 100 to 249

16 Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens Private 100 to 249

17 Town of Bluefield Local Government 100 to 249

18 Jenmar Corporation of Virginia Private 100 to 249

19 Knox Creek Coal Private 100 to 249

20 Town of Richlands Local Government 100 to 249

21 Pyott Boone Electronics, Inc. Private 100 to 249

Figure 8.1

50 Largest Employers in Tazewell County, 2013

Number of Rank Company Ownership Type Employees T | Tazewell County School Board Local Government | 1000 and over 2 | Wal-Mart Private 500 10 999 3 | Clinch Valley Medical Center Private 300 10 999 4 | Cumberland Mountain Community Services Local Government 250 10 499 5 | Southwest Virginia Community College State Government 250 10 499 6 | Pocahontas State Correctional Center State Government 250 10 499 7 | Lowe’s Home Centers, Inc Private 100 to 249 8 | Tazewell County, Virginia Local Government 100 to 249 9 | McDonald’s Private 100 to 249 10 | First Community Bank Private 100 to 249 11 | Food City Private 100 to 249 12 | Magic Mart Private 100 to 249 13 | Bluefield College Private 100 to 249 14 | Joy Technologies Private 100 to 249 15 | Heritage Hall Private 100 to 249 16 | Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens Private 100 to 249 17 | Town of Bluefield Local Government 100 to 249 18 | Jenmar Corporation of Virginia Private 100 to 249 19 | Knox Creek Coal Private 100 to 249 20 | Town of Richlands Local Government 100 to 249 21 | Pyott Boone Electronics, Inc. Private 100 to 249

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Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 73

22 Tazewell Community Hospital Private 100 to 249

23 Pemco Corporation Private 100 to 249

24 Spandeck, Inc. Private 100 to 249

25 Food Lion Private 100 to 249

26 Aramark Services Private 100 to 249

27 Westwood Medical Park Operations, LLC Private 100 to 249

28 Cardno MM&A Private 100 to 249

29 Grants Supermarket Private 50 to 99

30 K.S. & J. Roustabout Private 50 to 99

31 Hardee’s Private 50 to 99

32 Tammy Bostic Private 50 to 99

33 Wendy’s Private 50 to 99

34 Clinch River Forest Products, Inc. Private 50 to 99

35 Justice Low Seam Mining, Inc. Private 50 to 99

36 Clinch Valley Community Action Private 50 to 99

37 Clinch Valley Physicians, LLC Private 50 to 99

38 Emats, Inc. Private 50 to 99

39 Ramey Chevrolet, Inc. Private 50 to 99

40 Tazewell County Board of Social Services Local Government 50 to 99

41 Contemporary Builders Private 50 to 99

42 Tidewater Wholesale Grocery Private 50 to 99

43 Pounding Mill Quarry Corporation Private 50 to 99

44 CNX Gas Company Private 50 to 99

45 Town of Tazewell Local Government 50 to 99

46 Omega Surface Mining, LLC Private 50 to 99

47 Kwik Kafe Vending Company Private 50 to 99

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 74

48 United States Postal Service Federal Government 50 to 99

49 Family Preservation Services Private 50 to 99

50 Limestone Dust Corporation Private 50 to 99

Virginia Employment Commission, Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages,

2nd Quarter (April, May, June) 2014.

As shown in Figure 8.2 on the next page, Tazewell County’s average weekly wage show the powerful incentive for supporting the mining industry. Wage rates, though lower than the average in the region, are still significantly higher for natural resources and mining than any other category. The Goods- Producing Domain has also be a strong growth category for wages in Tazewell County and the region.
The county and region have lost the most ground in the professional and business services with the average wage for the county at less than half of the average for the state for many of those categories…

48 | United States Postal Service Federal Government 50 to 99 49 | Family Preservation Services Private 50 to 99 50 | Limestone Dust Corporation Private 50 to 99

Virginia Employment Commission, Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, 2nd Quarter (April, May, June) 2014.

As shown in Figure 8.2 on the next page, Tazewell County’s average weekly wage show the powerful incentive for supporting the mining industry. Wage rates, though lower than the average in the region, are still significantly higher for natural resources and mining than any other category. The Goods- Producing Domain has also be a strong growth category for wages in Tazewell County and the region. The county and region have lost the most ground in the professional and business services with the average wage for the county at less than half of the average for the state for many of those categories…

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 74

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 75

Figure 8.2

Annual Average Weekly Wage ($)

Tazewell County, CPPDC, and Virginia

Industry Tazewell County Cumberland Plateau

Planning District Commonwealth of

Virginia

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting 611 695 586

Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction 1,188 1,463 1,297

Utilities

1,704 1,838

Construction 810 862 934

Manufacturing 806 928 1054

Wholesale Trade 713 821 1346

Retail Trade 410 406 516

Transportation and Warehousing 504 673 924

Information 793 680 1,583

Finance and Insurance 652 740 1,447

Real Estate, Rental and Leasing 481 541 897

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services 746 791 1,792

Management of Companies and Enterprises 919 1,008 2,026

Administrative, Support, and Waste Management 452 485 706

Educational Services

606 789

Health Care and Social Assistance 671 735 855

Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 270 301 427

Accommodation and Food Services 262 254 333

Other Services (except Public Administration) 645 665 751

Federal Government 704 817 1,594

State Government 629 691 856

Local Government 551 565 818

Virginia Employment Commission: Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, 2nd Quarter 2014,4th Quarter 2013

Figure 8.2 Annual Average Weekly Wage ($)

Tazewell County, CPPDC, and Virginia

‘Cumberland Plateau ‘Commonwealth of Industry ‘Tazewell County Planning District Virginia “Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting on 695 386 Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction 1188 1463 1297 Uilities 1,704 1.838 Construction 310 B62 334 Manufacturing 806 928 1054 Wholesale Trade 713 821 1346 Retail Trade a0 406 316 “Transportation and Warehousing 304 673 24 Tnformation 793 680 1,583 Finance and Insurance 652, 740 1447 Real Estate, Rental and Leasing 481 341 897 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services 746 791 1,792 Management of Companies and Enterprises 719 1,008 2,026 ‘Administrative, Support, and Waste Management 452 aS 706 Educational Services 606 789 Health Care and Social Assistance oi 735 855 “Ars, Entertainment, and Recreation 270 301 a7 “Accommodation and Food Services 262 254 333 ‘Other Services (except Public Administration) 645, 665 731 Federal Government 704 817 1,594 Slate Government 029 or 856 Local Government 351 365 818

Virginia Employment Commission: Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, 2nd Quarter 2014,Aih Quarter 2013

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 76

Mining and Related Industries

The county benefited in many ways from the mining industry. Whole communities were developed in response to the abundant natural resource opportunities found in this area, and several industries continue to employ residents of Tazewell County and the surrounding region that support and enhance the mining opportunities in the area. However, the dependence on this single source of economic development has had dramatic costs to residents and the overall development of the county. Dependence on a basic industry makes the economy of the county highly susceptible to changes in that base industry, and Tazewell County has felt the impact of the “boom-bust” cycles of the mining industry.

The national demand for coal decreased in the 1960s as oil and natural gas began to compete with the coal market for home and industrial heating. Greater mechanization has allowed for higher production with fewer workers in the mines, thus reducing the employment opportunities in the county. Coal had a short-lived resurgence in the 1970s, but this was followed by greater environmental regulations of the industries in the late 1970s that had the greatest impact on smaller mining companies, the very type operating in Tazewell County. Profit margins were shrinking for these firms due to the higher costs of doing business and as the overall market for coal dropped again in the 1980s, the unemployment rates in Tazewell County skyrocketed.

The recent Marcellus Shale natural gas boom has impacted the price of coal negatively in the region, leading many mines to close, or to drastically decrease production rates.

Figure 8.3

Coal Production and Number of Mines, 2013 and 2012

(Thousand Short Tons)

Underground Surface Total

of Mines Production # of Mines Production # of Mines Production

Tazewell 2 481 2 767 4 1,248

Buchanan 18 6,305 9 1,390 27 7,695

Dickenson 11 3,032 6 510 17 3,543

Russell 4 298 2 100 6 398

Virginia 48 12,190 34 4,429 82 16,619

Energy Information Administration: Annual Coal Report 2013

Current mining production is highlighted in Figure 8.3 with total tonnage for the region broken down by county. As the chart shows, Tazewell and Russell County have the fewest mines in operation as well as smallest production capacity in the region. Because the average annual wage in the mining

Mining and Related Industries

The recent Marcellus Shale natural gas boom has impacted the price of coal negatively in the region, leading many mines to close, or to drastically decrease production rates.

Figure 8.3 Coal Production and Number of Mines, 2013 and 2012

(Thousand Short Tons)

Underground Surface Total #ofMines [Production |#ofMines | Production | #of Mines | Production Tazewell 2 481 2 767 4 1,248 Buchanan’ 18 6,305 9 7,390 2 7,695 Dickenson 1 3,032, 6 310 17 3,543 Russell 4 298 2 100 6 398, Virginia 8 12,190 34 4429 82 16,619

Energy Information Administration: Annual Coal Report 2013

Current mining production is highlighted in Figure 8.3 with total tonnage for the region broken down by county. As the chart shows, Tazewell and Russell County have the fewest mines in operation as

well as smallest production capacity in the region. Because the average annual wage in the mining Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 76

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 77

industry is still one of the highest, there is still strong commitment to supporting this industry within the county and the region, even with the downturn in production and jobs. Due to the need for alternative energy sources, it is projected that coal production will maintain its current production and possibly increase over the next several years as natural gas prices level off . However, the need for diversification of the economy is a reality particularly for the county and even the region.

Methane gas extraction is a growing industry in Tazewell County. While not located in the larger gas fields, natural gas extraction and coal gasification are growing industries in Tazewell County and merit close observation for development and economic enhancement opportunities.

Healthcare and Service Industries The county and surrounding local governmental partners spent the last two decades developing strategies and incentive programs to build new industry and job opportunities and to diversify the economic basis of the region. As was the national trend, the healthcare and service industries of Tazewell County have seen growth (Figure 8.1). However, the wages related to these industries are regularly lower than the traditional manufacturing wages associated with the mining and mineral extraction industries but continues to provide a strong employment base for the county. With the development of the Bluestone Technology Park, additional emergency, fire, and rescue services are needed in this area and are likely to be developed to include but not limited to: EMS, Fire and Rescue, Medical Air Evacuation, and general medical facilities.
Agriculture and Agribusiness Agriculture is an important piece of Tazewell County’s economic puzzle. Though the number of farms and acreage of land committed to agribusiness is shrinking in the county, the size of farms is growing. This may indicate a more corporate approach to this sector of the economy and also may be due to the larger number of livestock farmers vs. crop farmers because of the grazing needs of animals.

The number of farms in Tazewell County as well as nationwide is declining as shown in Figure 6.4.
The average size and value has increased, but the overall number of acres in active farming is shrinking in Tazewell County according to the US Census. There has been a significant increase in the amount of governmental subsidies to farmers in the county. These can be directly attributed to the current tobacco subsidy programming which is not likely to be long term, making the continuation of crop farming possibly difficult to achieve profitability in the future.

2, Healthcare and Service Industries The county and surrounding local governmental partners spent the last two decades developing strategies and incentive programs to build new industry and job opportunities and to diversify the economic basis of the region. As was the national trend, the healthcare and service industries of ‘Tazewell County have seen growth (Figure 8.1). However, the wages related to these industries are regularly lower than the traditional manufacturing wages associated with the mining and mineral extraction industries but continues to provide a strong employment base for the county. With the development of the Bluestone Technology Park, additional emergency, fire, and rescue services are needed in this area and are likely to be developed to include but not limited to: EMS, Fire and Rescue, Medical Air Evacuation, and general medical facilities,

Agriculture and Agribusiness

Agriculture is an important piece of Tazewell County’s economic puzzle. Though the number of farms and acreage of land committed to agribusiness is shrinking in the county, the size of farms is growing. This may indicate a more corporate approach to this sector of the economy and also may be due to the larger number of livestock farmers vs, crop farmers because of the grazing needs of animals.

The number of farms in Tazewell County as well as nationwide is declining as shown in Figure 6.4. ‘The average size and value has increased, but the overall number of acres in active farming is shrinking in Tazewell County according to the US Census. There has been a significant increase in the amount of governmental subsidies to farmers in the county. These can be directly attributed to the current tobacco subsidy programming which is not likely to be long term, making the continuation of crop farming possibly difficult to achieve profitability in the future.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 7

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 78

Figure 8.4

Agriculture in Tazewell County

Farming Highlights 2012 2007 2002

Number of Farms 584 576 551

Land in Agriculture (acres) 150,181 153,677 138,977

Average size of farm (acres) 257 267 252

Average Value of Production per farm $46,268 $37,308 $32,182

Average farm production expense $45,710 $34,788 $29,524

Government Payments $572,000 $137,000 $252,000

US Census of Agriculture, 2012 and 2007

Tazewell County has been noted as “The County where bluegrass grows to the top of the mountains.”
This is due to the vast under layer of limestone and may explain why the county is well known for its cattle industry. Grazing is a significant activity of the agriculture types found in Tazewell County. Figure 8.5 shows that cattle, sheep, and goats are the top livestock commodities for the county. Hay and related crops are the top items of acreage use in the county though the actual yield per acre would give a better representation of crop production in the crop categories. Population growth in Tazewell County will continue to remove agricultural land from production. Continued planning must take place to protect and conserve the counties most productive areas. Burkes Garden and the Cove must be off limits for commercial, industrial, and large housing developments. These areas are sensitive karst areas and the Cove serves as one of the primary watersheds for the county.

Agriculture in Tazewell County Farming Highlights 2012 2007 2002 Number of Farms 584 576 551 Land in Agriculture (acres) 150,181 153,677 138,977 Average size of farm (acres) 257 267 252 Average Value of Production per farm $46,268 $37,308 $32,182 Average farm production expense $45,710 $34,788 $29,524 Government Payments $572,000 $137,000 $252,000

US Census of Agriculture, 2012 and 2007

Tazewell County has been noted as “The County where bluegrass grows to the top of the mountains.” This is due to the vast under layer of limestone and may explain why the county is well known for its cattle industry. Grazing is a significant activity of the agriculture types found in Tazewell County. Figure 8.5 shows that cattle, sheep, and goats are the top livestock commodities for the county. Hay and related crops are the top items of acreage use in the county though the actual yield per acre would give a better representation of crop production in the crop categories. Population growth in Tazewell County will continue to remove agricultural land from production. Continued planning must take place to protect and conserve the counties most productive areas.

be off limits for commercial, industrial, and large housing developments.

karst areas and the Cove serves as one of the primary watersheds

Burkes Garden and the Cove must These areas are sensitive for the county.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 79

Figure 8.5

Agriculture Types and Rank in Tazewell County

Commodity Quantity State Rank U.S. Rank

Top Livestock Inventory Items (number)

Cattle and calves 37,199 15 762

Sheep and lambs 4,115 4 210

Layers 2,121 34 1,254

Goats, all 1,310 8 387

Horse and ponies 1,292 22 874

Top Crop Items (acres)

Forage-land used for all hay and haylage, grass silage, and greenchop 21,437 23 900

Corn for silage 926 30 1,160

Corn for grain (D) 78 (D)

Short-rotation woody crops (D) 6 (D)

Vegetables harvested, all 39 57 1,746

U.S. Census of Agriculture, 2012.

(D) Cannot be disclosed.

Ranked items among the 98 state counties and 3,078 U.S. Counties, 2012.

Timber is another economic asset within Tazewell County. The wood products industry has struggled in recent years, however the natural resources within the county make this potential economic driver worthy of note and assessment today and for the future.

It is clear from Figure 8.6 that Dickenson County within the planning district is the only county still showing true economic benefit from the wood products industry. As with the coal industry, this economic driver is natural resources based and often does not return equal benefit for the level of long- term impact assessed to the community. Should Tazewell County pursue a renewal of development within this area, it will be crucial to create businesses that enhance the return on investment within the

Figure 8.5

Agriculture Types and Rank in Tazewell County

‘Commodity Quantity | State Rank | U.S. Rank

Top Livestock Inventory Items (number)

Cattle and calves: 37,199 15 762 Sheep and lambs 415 4 210 Layers 2,121 34 1,254 Goats, all 1,310 8 387 Horse and ponies 1,292 22 874

Top Crop Items (acres)

Forage-land used for all hay and haylage, grass

silage, and greenchop 21,437 23 900 Corn for silage 926 30 1,160 ‘Com for grain ©) B O) Short-rotation woody crops (D) 6 (D) Vegetables harvested, all 39 37 1,746

US. Census of Agriculture, 2012. (D) Cannot be disclosed. Ranked items among the 98 state counties and 3,078 U.S. Counties, 2012,

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 79

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 80

wood products industry so the citizens of the county can benefit from the extraction of these valuable resources.

Figure 8.6

Wood Product and Type by Thousand Cubic Feet

All products Saw logs Veneer logs Pulpwood* Composite

panels Other

industrial

County Soft Hard Soft Hard Soft Hard Soft Hard Soft Hard Soft Hard

Buchanan 95 877 0 463 0 0 0 80 0 18 93 134

Dickenson 15 9,165 0 532 0 90 15 6,643 0 0 0 0

Russell 0 1,000 0 532 0 0 0 261 0 0 0 0

Tazewell 615 3,009 229 1,136 0 0 1 638 1 78 370 533

US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Resources Planning Act Timber Product Output Report, 2007.

*Includes roundwood delivered to nonpulp mills, then chipped and sold to pulp mills (138,000 cubic feet in 2003)

wood products industry so the citizens of the county can benefit from the extraction of these valuable resources

Figure 8.6

Wood Product and Type by Thousand Cubic Feet

Composite ‘Other All products || Saw logs | Veneer logs | Pulpwood* | — panels industrial County Soft | Hard | Soft | Hard | Soft | Hard | Soft | Hard | Soft | Hard | Soft | Hard Buchanan, 95 877 i) 463 0 0 i) 80 0 18 93 134 Dickenson | 15] 9165{ Of 532] of 90{ is] oof of of o 0 Russell 0} 1,000 i) 532 0 0 i) 261 0 0 0 0 Tazewell | o15| 3,009] 229| 1136 of of 1] ssf i] 7] 370] 533

US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Resources Planning Act Timber Product Output Report, 2007.

“Includes roundwood delivered to nonpulp mills, then chipped and sold to pulp mills (138,000 cubic feet in 2003)

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 80

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 81

C. Emerging Technology and Development

High speed fiber optic cabling has been deployed in a backbone fashion to provide access to this utility for opportunities that are expected in the region. Higher wages and stable business opportunities will come with these ventures thus preparations are necessary for this to occur. Information Technology (IT) industries have located in neighboring communities, and Tazewell is working to position itself to build on potential expansions and networked business.

An important initiative in that realm is the development of the Bluestone Regional Business and Technology Park overlooking the Bluestone River off Route 460. The master plan for this park includes office buildings, a hotel and conference center, retail shops, restaurants, a golf course, seasonal lodges, and residential units. As a result, high technology workers will work, play, and live in a well-planned and developed area. The local community will also benefit from the recreational, business, and tax- generating resources this park will offer.

C. Emerging Technology and Development

An important initiative in that realm is the development of the Bluestone Regional Business and Technology Park overlooking the Bluestone River off Route 460. The master plan for this park includes office buildings, a hotel and conference center, retail shops, restaurants, a golf’ course, seasonal lodges, and residential units. As a result, high technology workers will work, play, and live in a well-planned and developed area. The local community will also benefit from the recreational, business, and tax- generating resources this park will offer.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 81

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 82

Figure 8.7

Site Plan Map of Bluestone

Figure 8.7

Site Plan Map of Bluestone

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 83

The Economy

The Vision

The vision for Tazewell County is for sustained economic growth that does not impair or diminish the rural character of the county. The economy would be characterized by abundant jobs that offer above state average wages, salaries and benefits resulting in very low unemployment, minimal public assistance and higher than average SAT/SOL scores. The economic development efforts of the county are focused on advanced countywide water, sewer and telecommunications infrastructure system, aggressive business recruitment and tourism development programs, as well as active existing business and entrepreneurship developmental programs.

Summary

Tazewell County, located in the majestic Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, was officially formed in 1799 from the counties of Russell and Wythe. Named for Henry Tazewell, a United States Senator (1794-1799), the diversity of culture, history, and geography of Tazewell County has few rivals in all of Virginia or even across the globe.

Similar to other rural localities in Virginia, Tazewell County’s economic base evolved from predominantly agricultural activity in its early history coupled with a concentration of employment in the mining and mine-related industry which peaked in the 1970’s. The present day focus of economic growth incorporates the mission of Virginia’s e-Region, promoting jobs in the electronic information technology, energy, education, and emerging specialty manufacturing industries.

Developed business sites, improved infrastructure, workforce development and training for the unemployed and/or under-employed, improved infrastructure, and aggressive business incentives are needed for sustainable economic growth.

During the past few years, the county has improved basic infrastructure to support new business and industrial facilities and have attempted to diversify the region’s economy. In order to position itself in a more favorable marketing stance, fiber optic cabling has been deployed in a backbone fashion to provide high speed internet capability to portions of the county. A significant economic development project called The Bluestone: A Regional Business and Technology Center is being planned with components such as office buildings, hotel and conference center, retail shops and restaurants, a golf course, seasonal lodging, and residential units.

Access and availability of adequate funding for developed sites infrastructure, incentives, and marketing are necessary to provide necessary jobs and improved quality of life for the residents of Tazewell County.

The Economy The Vision

Summary

Similar to other rural localities in Virginia, Tazewell County’s economic base evolved from predominantly agricultural activity in its early history coupled with a concentration of employment in the mining and mine-related industry which peaked in the 1970’s, The present day focus of economic growth incorporates the mission of Virginia’s e-Region, promoting jobs in the electronic information

technology, energy, education, and emerging specialty manufacturing industries.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 83

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 84

Goal: Support, diversify, and expand the county’s economic base to provide employment opportunities for all and to increase income levels in all sectors

Objectives and Strategies:

Develop county financial strategy for future investments and creative programming to attain the progressive economic vision of the county.

 Support Bluestone project

 Target and market areas of the county for commercial and industrial development

 Develop and support appropriate and targeted workforce training opportunities for citizens and businesses within the county

 Target Claypool Hill area for commercial improvements to attract desired business and industry to the county

 Support current industry development and communication structure linked directly to economic development offices and staff

 Evaluate the possibility of hiring a full time Tourism Director for the county

 Create and support appropriate staffing for economic and cultural support of county goals

 Create incentives and welcoming strategies for targeted industries.

Support existing industries and businesses in the county

 Encourage existing industry expansion, by developing incentives and community relationship programs

 Promote “Made in Tazewell” concept—local produce and history at center of festivals, events, and local markets and shops

 Evaluate service industry growth in the county

 Support the expansion of agricultural-related businesses located in the county, especially “niche” farming like nurseries, viticulture, and agritourism

 Encourage the development of aquaculture activities in coordination with the Virginia Tech Aquaculture Research Center

Goal: Support, diversify, and expand the county’s economic base to provide employment opportunities for all and to increase income levels in all sectors

Objectives and Strategies:

Develop county financial strategy for future investments and creative programming to attain the progressive economic vision of the county.

(Support Bluestone project (Target and market areas of the county for commercial and industrial development

(Develop and support appropriate and targeted workforce training opportunities for citizens and businesses within the county

(Target Claypool Hill area for commercial improvements to attract desired business and industry to the county

CiSupport current industry development and communication structure linked directly to economic development offices and staff

(Evaluate the possibility of hiring a full time Tourism Director for the county

(Create and support appropriate staffing for economic and cultural support of county goals

(Create incentives and welcoming strategies for targeted industries. 2. Support existing industries and businesses in the county

Encourage existing industry expansion, by developing incentives and community relationship programs

[Promote “Made in Tazewell” concept—local produce and history at center of festivals, events, and local markets and shops

[Evaluate service industry growth in the county

(CiSupport the expansion of agricultural-related businesses located in the county, especially “niche” farming like nurseries, viticulture, and agritourism

[Encourage the development of aquaculture activities in coordination with the Virginia Tech Aquaculture Research Center

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 84

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 85

D. Tourism

Along with business and industry, tourism has also proven to be an engine of growth in Tazewell County. Touted as Four Seasons Country, the Clinch River Basin is considered one of only twenty “Last Great Places” in the world according to the Nature Conservancy. Tourism and cultural heritage also play an integral role in Tazewell County’s economy, and the county offers diverse cultural, and recreational activities, including the Historic Crab Orchard Museum, the Tazewell County Old Time and Bluegrass Fiddlers’ Convention, the Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine and Museum, beautiful Burke’s Garden and the Appalachian Trail, just to name a few.

The Crab Orchard’s Pioneer Park is expanding to include a 16-acre tract that will include a Turn-of-the-Century community and include the relocated historic Pisgah Store and a farm heritage center. This facility hosts multiple special events including civil war re- enactments, pioneer recreations, and traveling exhibits from across Virginia and the world. Pocahontas is another leading tourist attraction in far Southwest Virginia and visitation at that museum continues to increase. The exhibition mine was designated a National

Historic Landmark in October 1994 and attracts visitors from across the country. There are efforts underway to enhance the downtown and preserve historic structures within the Pocahontas community.

Burke’s Garden is Virginia’s largest rural historic district, and its geography is so distinctive that it is visible from space. The community holds a Fall Festival that attracts crafters and visitors to “God’s Thumbprint” from around the world.
Cultural institutions and unique communities like these are important to preserve the county’s cultural heritage and to create economic benefit for the county through the visitor traffic and expenditures. Tazewell County’s institutions of higher learning also contribute to community arts through their offering of special events and promotion to their student populations of local attractions and historic venues.

http://www.craborchardmuseum.com/� http://www.virginia.org/site/description.asp?AttrID=15134&MGrp=1&MCat=10� http://www.appalachiantrail.org/� D. Tourism

Along with business and industry, tourism has also

proven to be an engine of growth in Tazewell County. Touted as Four Seasons Country, the Clinch River Basin is considered one of only twenty “Last Great Places” in the world according to the Nature Conservancy. Tourism and cultural heritage also play an integral role in Tazewell County’s economy, and the county offers diverse cultural, and recreational activities, including the Historic Crab Orchard Museum, the Tazewell County Old Time and Bluegrass Fiddlers’ Convention, the Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine and Museum, beautiful

Burke’s Garden and the Appalachian Trail, just to name a few.

Historic Landmark in October 1994 and attracts visitors from across the country. There are efforts

underway to enhance the downtown and preserve historic structures within the Pocahontas community.

Burke’s Garden is Virginia’s largest rural historic district, and its geography is so distinctive that it is visible from space. The community holds a Fall Festival that attracts crafters and visitors to “God’s Thumbprint” from around the world. Cultural institutions and unique communities like these are important to preserve the county’s cultural heritage and to create economic benefit for the county through the visitor traffic and expenditures. ‘Tazewell County’s institutions of higher learning also contribute to community arts through their offering of| special events and promotion to their student populations of local attractions and historic venues.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 85

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 86

Other new tourism attractions include the Back of the Dragon and the “Original Pocahontas” ATV Trail. These attractions are for motorcycle/sports car/ATV aficionados. The Back of the Dragon has 32 miles of motorcycling and sports car excitement between Tazewell and Smyth Counties. The O.P. ATV trail

includes over 30 miles of ATV trails near to the Town of Pocahontas, as well as two trailheads and multiple lodging sites.

Local attractions include Tazewell County’s majestic mountains with their scenic ridgelines. East River Mountain exemplifies this with the natural occurrence of the shelf spilling a waterfall of morning fog. This presents a need of the county to protect these ridgelines from uncontrolled development. The following figure identifies these ridgelines within the county that warrant protection.

Other new tourism attractions include the Back of the Dragon

and the "Original Pocahontas” ATV Trail. These attractions are

for motoreycle/sports car/ATV aficionados. The Back of the

Dragon has 32 miles of motorcycling and sports car excitement

between Tazewell and Smyth Counties. The O.P. ATV trail includes over 30 miles of ATV trails near to the Town of Pocahontas, as well as two trailheads and multiple lodging sites.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 86

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 87

Figure 8.8

Ridgeline Protection Ordinance Map

Figure 8.8

Ridgeline Protection Ordinance Map

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 88

Tourism is clearly an important growth industry for Tazewell County and pursuit and support of enhancements in this area are crucial to the diversification of the local and regional economy. Unlike extracted resources, the natural and cultural tourist resources stay in the county, provide long-term benefit to the county and residents, and through support and enhancement, are a continually renewable source of financial and quality of life benefits for the entire county. Figure 6.8 helps to reveal the current economic impacts of tourism in the county today. These are based on the spin-off industry impact of visitors to the county such as restaurants, hotels, and gas stations. The growth over the three years that this chart shows is worthy of note as these numbers reflect historic visitor investment without the projected tourism enhancements pointed out in the Tazewell County Tourism Strategic Plan.

Figure 8.9

Tourism Economic Impacts

2003 2006 2013

Travel Impacts Tazewell Virginia Tazewell Virginia Tazewell Virginia

Visitor Expenditures $31,040,239 $13,890,037,000 $38,890,075 $17,664,097,921 $48,910,000 $21,511,980,000

Payroll Generated $7,878,150 $3,869,816,832 $8,558,524 $4,262,749,947 $10,200,000 $4,894,570,000

Employment Generated 531 201,130 542 208,236 570 213,000

State Tax Receipts $1,494,405 $591,624,348 $1,753,605 $706,807,719 $2,060,000 $842,090,000

Local Tax Receipts $461,579 $409,736,358 $556,621 $502,700,824 $660,000 $581,850,000

Virginia Tourism Corporation, 2006, 2014

The economy and culture of a community are strong indicators of the growth and trends. By understanding how the economic picture is changing and factoring in the cultural history of the county, there are many important lessons and opportunities present that can help direct Tazewell County into the future.

Along with business and industry, tourism has also proven to be an engine of economic growth in the county. Touted as Four Seasons Country, the Clinch River Basin is considered one of the “Last Great Places” in the world according to the Nature Conservancy. With phenomenal natural occurrences such as the East River Mountain shelf spilling a waterfall of morning fog, and the alluvial bowl known as Burke’s Garden, otherwise known as God’s Thumbprint, the tourism industry is clearly an important factor in the economy of the county, region and state.

Tourism is clearly an important growth industry for Tazewell County and pursuit and support of enhancements in this area are crucial to the diversification of the local and regional economy, Unlike extracted resources, the natural and cultural tourist resources stay in the county, provide long-term benefit to the county and residents, and through support and enhancement, are a continually renewable source of financial and quality of life benefits for the entire county. Figure 6.8 helps to reveal the current economic impacts of tourism in the county today. These are based on the spin-off industry impact of visitors to the county such as restaurants, hotels, and gas stations, The growth over the three years that this chart shows is worthy of note as these numbers reflect historic visitor investment without the projected tourism enhancements pointed out in the Tazewell County Tourism Strategic

Plan.

Figure 8.9

Tourism Economic Impacts

2003 2006 2013 ‘Travel Impacts | Tazewell Virginia Tazewell Virginia Tazewell Virginia Visitor

Expenditures | $31,040,239 | $13,890,037,000 | $38,890,075 } $17,664,097,921 | $48,910,000 | $21,511,980,000 Payroll

Generated $7,878,150] $3,869,816,832 | $8,958,524 | $4.262,749,947 | $10,200,000 $4,894,570,00 Employment

Generated S31 201,130 542 208,236 sil 213,004 State Tax

Receipts $1,494,405 | $591,624,348 | $1,753,605 | $706,807,719 | $2,060,000, $842,090.00 Local Tax

Receipts $461,579 | $409,736,358 | $556,621 | $02,700,824 $660,000] $581,850,00

Virginia Tourism Corporation, 2006, 2014

the future.

Along with business and industry, tourism has also proven to be an engine of economic growth in the county. Touted as Four Seasons Country, the Clinch River Basin is considered one of the “Last Great Places” in the world according to the Nature Conservancy. With phenomenal natural occurrences such as the East River Mountain shelf spilling a waterfall of morning fog, and the alluvial bow! known as Burke’s Garden, otherwise known as God’s Thumbprint, the tourism industry is clearly an important factor in the economy of the county, region and state.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 89

In the past, the tourism efforts of Tazewell County have been coordinated through the Tourism Committee with limited planning. While the efforts have been productive, the increase of tourism activity have encouraged the Tourism Committee to consider a more organized, planned effort for tourism development and marketing. A SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat) analysis, facilitated by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, was used as a key method in developing a tourism-related strategic plan for Tazewell County. During the planning process, several issues were identified to include: lack of tourism infrastructure such as attractions, outfitters, and unique and formal restaurants, limited financial support to develop and market the area, and, lack of understanding of the positive economic impact of tourism among various groups such as elected officials, towns, and organizations.

The tourism committee has realized the potential for substantial future growth in many areas. Various opportunities of tourism development are possible through cooperative regional efforts, cooperative marketing, the development of public golf courses, the development of theme specific trails (i.e. Wilderness Road Trail, Virginia Coal Heritage Trail, Civil War Trail, Public Art Trail, Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, etc.), and the development of ATV trails, hiking and biking trails, and blueway trails. The Tourism Committee further realized the opportunity to attract the tour bus market and other specific target markets such as history and railroaders pleasure trips, ladies retreats, father/son get-a-ways, artisan expos, and mountain music weekends.

To enhance tourism opportunities, Tourism Zones in Tazewell County have been created. The Tourism Zones set aside areas designated for tourism development and to offer incentives that will encourage tourism development in these zones for up to 20 years.

Goal Statement: Promote the development of the tourism industry in the county.

Objectives and Strategies:

Increase tourism and residential visits to county landmarks and points of interest.

 Work with regional partners to promote and support development and events in the county.

 Develop new draws for tourism in the county

 Develop and support campgrounds and RV parks in strategic locations across county

 Develop incentives for promoting eating establishments and other “visitor support industry” in the county

 Access and map tourism destinations and opportunities in the county

 Advertise the existence of the tourist centers located with the county, i.e. Saunders House, Chamber of Commerce

 Advertise tourism through the existing tourism web site

The tourism committee has realized the potential for substantial future growth in many areas. Various opportunities of tourism development are possible through cooperative regional efforts, cooperative marketing, the development of public golf courses, the development of theme specific trails (i.e. Wildemess Road Trail, Virginia Coal Heritage Trail, Civil War Trail, Public Art Trail, Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, etc.), and the development of ATV trails, hiking and biking trails, and blueway trails. The Tourism Committee further realized the opportunity to attract the tour bus market and other specific target markets such as history and railroaders pleasure trips, ladies retreats, father/son get-a-ways, artisan expos, and mountain music weekends.

Goal Statement: Promote the development of the tourism industry in the county.

Object

es and Strategies: 1, Increase tourism and residential visits to county landmarks and points of interest.

(Work with regional partners to promote and support development and events in the county.

[Develop new draws for tourism in the county [Develop and support campgrounds and RV parks in strategic locations across county

[Develop incentives for promoting eating establishments and other “visitor support industry” in the county

(Access and map tourism destinations and opportunities in the county

DAdvertise the existence of the tourist centers located with the county, i.e. Saunders House, Chamber of Commerce

(Advertise tourism through the existing tourism web site

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 89

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 90

 Work with the Chamber of Commerce to continue to develop and support the tourist information center in the county

 Promote and support the Crab Orchard Museum as a major tourist attraction

 Encourage the development of tourism amenities such as lodging establishments (including “bed and breakfasts”), shopping attractions, and restaurants

 Promote Tazewell County to travelers through participation in regional marketing efforts

 Promote the “Back of the Dragon”, “Original Pocahontas” ATV trail, and other new tourism attractions.

 Educate community leaders and citizens of the benefits of tourism

 Develop funding sources for tourism efforts

 Provide adequate tourism-focused staffing to implement the strategic plan

 Prioritize and develop tourism assets / products

 Implement and effective marketing effort

 Designate Areas of Tourism Zones

 Market tourism zones

 Promote further spin-off opportunities (i.e. Trails)

 Promote and Market events such as that put on such as the concert put on by the Second Chance Learning Center

(Work with the Chamber of Commerce to continue to develop and support the tourist information center in the county

(Promote and support the Crab Orchard Museum as a major tourist attraction

Encourage the development of tourism amenities such as lodging establishments (including “bed and breakfasts”), shopping attractions, and restaurants

(Promote Tazewell County to travelers through participation in regional marketing efforts

(Promote the “Back of the Dragon”, “Original Pocahontas” ATV trail, and other new tourism attractions.

[Educate community leaders and citizens of the benefits of tourism CDevelop funding sources for tourism efforts

[Provide adequate tourism-focused staffing to implement the strategic plan OPrioritize and develop tourism assets / products

(ilmplement and effective marketing effort

[DDesignate Areas of Tourism Zones

[Market tourism zones

DPromote further spin-off opportunities (ie. Trails)

[Promote and Market events such as that put on such as the concert put on by the Second Chance Learning Center

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 90

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 91

IX. Future Land Use Designations The following Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is designed to guide future development of the Tazewell County according to the goals and objectives specified in the Comprehensive Plan. This is not a zoning map nor does it represent specific or detailed land uses today or into the future. The map is a broad-brush visual representation of the best understanding of the goals of the citizens as they apply to the use and protection of land resources of the county. The following definitions give context to the map.

A. Agricultural High resource value areas based on soil types, environmental sensitivity, or other unique land characteristics. Includes areas that are preserved from development through public or private conservation efforts. Clustering of housing units is supported in this district.

B. Forestal High resource value areas based on soil types, environmental sensitivity, or other unique land characteristics. Includes areas that are used for mining and gas production.

C. Rural Residential Small clusters of residential units with some low intensity agricultural uses. These areas are intended to preserve open spaces and the agricultural landscape while allowing clustered residential development that minimizes impervious surfaces across properties.

D. Residential Residential areas located in close proximity to urban services and roads capable of handling higher traffic volumes. These are areas for single-family detached and attached units and apartments/condominiums. Small-scale neighborhood and/or lifestyle commercial (such as small convenience markets and marinas) are allowed where appropriate in this zone.

E. Commercial Areas designated for intensive commercial development with access to major roads and public utilities.
Includes, but is not limited to, wholesale, retail, and service commercial uses.

F. Industrial Areas designated for manufacturing, fabricating, commercial and agricultural processing and other land uses that are often water intensive and generally characterized as having a greater impact on the surrounding land uses and the environment.

G. Mixed Use
Areas with a mixture of residential, commercial, light industrial and civic uses located along major transportation corridors. Intention of these areas is to provide convenient services for neighborhoods and prevent strip development and multiple access points along major and secondary transportation corridors.

A. Agricultural

High resource value areas based on soil types, environmental sensitivity, or other unique land characteristics. Includes areas that are preserved from development through public or private conservation efforts. Clustering of housing units is supported in this district.

B. Forestal High resource value areas based on soil types, environmental sensitivity, or other unique land characteristics. Includes areas that are used for mining and gas production.

C. Rural Residential

Small clusters of residential units with some low intensity agricultural uses. These areas are intended to preserve open spaces and the agricultural landscape while allowing clustered residential development that minimizes impervious surfaces across properties.

D. Residential

Residential areas located in close proximity to urban services and roads capable of handling higher traffic volumes. These are areas for single-family detached and attached units and apartments/condominiums. Small-scale neighborhood and/or lifestyle commercial (such as small convenience markets and marinas) are allowed where appropriate in this zone.

E. Commercial ‘Areas designated for intensive commercial development with access to major roads and public utilities. Includes, but is not limited to, wholesale, retail, and service commercial uses

F. Industrial

Areas designated for manufacturing, fabricating, commercial and agricultural processing and other land uses that are often water intensive and generally characterized as having a greater impact on the surrounding land uses and the environment.

G. Mixed Use

Areas with a mixture of residential, commercial, light industrial and civic uses located along major transportation corridors. Intention of these areas is to provide convenient services for neighborhoods and prevent strip development and multiple access points along major and secondary transportation corridors.

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan o1

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 92

H. Scenic / Heritage Area Areas with an emphasis on scenery or heritage should be maintained for

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan 93

Figure 9.1

Future Land Use Map

Figure 9.1

Future Land Use Map

Tazewell County 2017 Comprehensive Plan

I. Introduction
A.  The Purpose of the Plan
B.  Developing and Organizing the Plan
C.  Legal Basis for the Plan
1.  Relationship to Other Planning Efforts
2.  Citizen Involvement

D.  Adoption Process for the Plan
E.  Planning for the Future
1.  Organization of this Plan


II. Location and Geography
A.  Regional Perspective
B.  Topography and Geography

III. Background and Demographics
A.  Historic Development Patterns
B.  Demographics and Background
C.  Housing Patterns and Structures
1.  Affordable Housing
2.  Subsidized and Assisted Housing Programs
3.  Assisted Living and Nursing Homes


IV. Transportation
A.  Transportation Modes and Networks
B.  New Transportation Regulations

V. Community Facilities and Governance
A.  Community and Human Services
B.  Healthcare Facilities and Services
C.  Veterinary Services
D.  Public Safety Services and Facilities
1. Fire and Rescue
2. Tazewell County Sheriff's Department
3. 911 Emergency Response Center
4. Pocahontas State Correctional Center

E.  Recreational Services and Facilities

VI. Infrastructure and Land Use
A.  Information Technology Infrastructure
B.  Water and Sewer
C.  Solid Waste Management
D.  Telecommunications
D.  Land Use
1.  Land Use Tools
2.  Environment and Land Use
3. Urban Forest (Green Infrastructure)


VII. Education and Training
A.  Public Education
B.  Higher Education
C.  Continuing Education

VII. Economy and Culture
A.  Development and Structures
B.  Current Industry and Development
1.  Mining and Related Industries
2.  Healthcare and Service Industries
3.  Agriculture and Agribusiness

C.  Emerging Technology and Development
D.  Tourism

IX. Future Land Use Designations
A.  Agricultural
B.  Forestal
C.  Rural Residential
D.  Residential
F.  Industrial
G.  Mixed Use
H.   Scenic / Heritage Area

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