Appalachian Regional Commission to highlight strategic investments in region

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties, plans to hold a virtual event series to highlight how ARC’s investments are transforming Appalachian communities.

The series, Appalachia Envisioned Roadshow, will focus on the commission’s 2022–2026 strategic plan. Dates and times for most of the shows have not been scheduled but will focus on building Appalachian business, building Appalachian infrastructure, building regional culture and tourism, and building community leaders and capacity.

Each event will spotlight one of ARC’s five strategic investment priorities. Economic development professionals, community members, and governors will speak.

The first show will be on March 1 and will focus on building workforce ecosystems in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York.

“The future of Appalachia is bright because of the individuals in the region actively engaged in efforts to strengthen and elevate their communities each day,” ARC Federal Co-Chairwoman Gayle Manchin said. “The Appalachia Envisioned Roadshow is a five-part virtual event series, which will spotlight the voices and experiences of leaders and communities in all 13 states while facilitating conversations about resilience, innovation, sustainability, and equity through the lens of ARC’s new strategic plan. I look forward to kicking off the series with our partners in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York, as well as collaborating with additional state partners for future events.”