EXCUSES! EXCUSES! EXCUSES! There are always excuses why a community is not growing. Pick one — lack of funds, nobody to write grants, personalities, national, state or local elections, old buildings, lack of leadership, no volunteers, no businesses, economic shifts or a host of other items. We can always find an EXCUSE!

Excuses are easy — working is hard. Creating a vibrant community takes passion and a willingness to learn. Jim Clifton, chairman and CEO of Gallup, and others did research on why some cities thrive and others do not. Among the findings were:

Retention of existing businesses is just as important as recruiting new businesses; Identify and keep those businesses who get their revenues from outside the community; Identify and help promising startup businesses.

Provide programming which brings lots of people downtown on a regular basis; Provide retail and entertainment options; Provide opportunities for downtown office space

Every downtown needs a great intersection; create fewer traffic lanes; slow down traffic going through town.

Create residential options for those wanting to live in or near downtown.

The bonus in thriving cities was having a college or university; they provide intellectual capital and turn our entrepreneurs.

What is meant by a vibrant community? “A place where young people can stay home after high school or college and still fulfill their potential, a place that attracts talent and private investments, a place where a strong tax base leads to financial health. A place that’s safe and clean with a great education system.”

Elkins/Randolph County began the Vibrant Community journey in 2020. Much has been accomplished during the past five years. Now it is time for the second phase — Vibrant Community 2.0.

In the list of why cities thrive — Elkins/Randolph County has a checkmark in every category. Existing businesses are growing, new businesses are developing and investments are coming from outside the County. Elkins is a business hub for the region. Great community spirit exists and is seen in many, many events and organizations. Third & Davis is a key Elkins intersection with Augusta making a major investment. Downtown residential options have started — however, more is needed.

Our bonus is Davis & Elkins College. D&E is making major investments while attracting international students from over 40 countries. Elkins also has Davis Medical Center within walking distance.

The opportunity is here for the Elkins/Randolph community to continue coming together and build even stronger. There are no excuses! Everything is present — all that is needed is you and the intentional effort to make Elkins/Randolph County Vibrant. Don’t underestimate the difference you make. Vibrant Community 2.0 is happening. Since 2020 many have stepped forward. Let’s continue the Vibrant Community 2.0 journey.