Opportunity Appalachia announced the selection of 29 projects to participate in its program aimed at increasing job growth,
business support, and investment in Central Appalachia. The Old Glory Mill project in Rhodhiss, submitted by Burke River Trail, one of 94 applicants, was awarded a technical assistance grant valued at $70,000. Services include a market study for the envisioned uses, including housing, restaurant, outdoor recreation retail/outfitter, event space, warehousing, and retail. Specifically that includes
- Financial structuring and financial proforma with likely sources and uses identified
- Conceptual architectural sketches and renderings with cost estimation
- Part I application to the US Department of the Interior for historic preservation tax credits
- Developer solicitation and dedicated assistance with review and selection
The total needed funds for the technical assistance is above the $70,000 awarded and funds from the Rural Community Capacity Program (RC2) will fill the gap.
Town of Rhodhiss was accepted into the RC2 program and Burke River Trail Association was approved as the town’s partner for 2-day monthly training for 5 months. At the end of the program, Rhodhiss will be awarded $45,000 that can be added to the technical assistance grant.