The Andrews Valley Initiative (AVI)

Andrews, NC. The Andrews Valley Initiative (AVI), 985 Main Street, a grassroots 501(c)3 non-profit organization, whose mission is to plan for progress in the Andrews valley while preserving its heritage and protecting its beauty for generations to come, is pleased to share with the public how the NC Step funding received by the town of Andrews has been used for projects that benefit area residents.

NC Step (North Carolina Small Towns Economic Prosperity Demonstration Program) is a program of the NC Rural Economic Development Center designed to bring a comprehensive revitalization effort to communities across the state. Through the efforts of AVI, Andrews became a part of the NC Step Western Small Towns Cluster, coached by Handmade in America, in mid 2009. Funding of $50,000 was allocated to Andrews for three specific projects:

1. Broadband WiMax. $5,000 was allocated for a survey to establish the feasibility and costs of upgrading the area’s broadband infrastructure, utilizing the existing fiber optic cable in Andrews, to provide superior WiMax internet service to residents, businesses and services. The  survey has been completed, and the project has been proven to be viable. Phase 2 of the project is a survey of area residents to determine their interest level in this exciting opportunity. The survey is underway, and is being conducted by Chip Love. A recent Andrews Journal news article provides additional information.
2. Valleytown Cultural Arts Center renovations. $16,000 was allocated for necessary electrical upgrades, which have been completed, and a study by architect Terry Meek of ETMA to determine the feasibility and costs to fully restore the Valleytown Cultural Arts Center. This study and a conceptual design have been completed, and can be viewed at: http://etm-architect.com/vcahs.html. Phase 2 of this project is to obtain the needed funding and a grant writing campaign is underway. In addition, we hope that all who can will support the project by donations to the non-profit Valleytown Cultural Arts and Historical Society: http://www.andrewsvalleyarts.com/support-us.asp.
3. Construction of the Freedom Memorial Pavilion and paved trail, located on Old School House Hill. $29,000 was allocated for this project that commemorates our native inhabitants and others who have given their lives in the service of their country. The Pavilion will serve as an outdoor classroom that incorporates the beauty and history of Andrews and Valleytown into a learning tool for residents and visitors alike. The funds were used for a paved trail linking the Pavilion with the high school campus and for the concrete structure of the outdoor classroom. The project will be completed when funds are obtained for completion of the roof/sun-shelter, installation of plaques and historic markers and landscaping (including cherry trees to be planted along the street from the Cultural Center to the Pavilion). The Pavilion and trail can be viewed from Main Street, and by visiting the School House Hill.

AVI would like to thank the many volunteers who have spend countless hours on the projects, as well as the NC Rural Center and Handmade in America for their support and coaching.