Page 68 - High Knob Master Plan

HIGH KNOB OUTDOORS INCUBATOR
The High Knob Regional Initiative (HKRI) offers many growth opportunities for small businesses located in towns throughout the region. Because towns often serve as base camps for visitors, they are ideal locations for outfitters or leisure and travel service operators. Incubator spaces, such as the one proposed in the city of Norton, can help support this new outdoor tourism economy.
Modeled on traditional business incubators found in business parks, as well as modern co-working spaces, the proposed incubator provides temporary flex space complete with business amenities. Strategically locating this incubator and other future incubators in downtown areas will draw both visitors and residents to new local businesses. Outdoor plaza spaces near these incubators can serve the dual purpose of improving the streetscape and allowing businesses to showcase their products.
NEXT STEPS
1. Working in concert with Norton Downtown Revitalization master plan, and property owner, work to secure option on property, or alternatively work with current owner / developer.
2. Work with Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) to compose financial incentives for this package.
3. Design and Build improvements, in coordination with Norton Downtown Revitalization master plan and the HKRI master Plan.
4. Brand and market the facility as part of HKRI brand.
68 CHAPTER 8: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
HIGH KNOB REGIONAL INITIATIVE
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SIGNATURE PROJECTS