Key Messages from the Community

Between October and December 2007, HDA interviewed individuals and groups asking: What are the opportunities and challenges fro Honaker as it revitalizes its downtown?

The conversations with local leaders, business interests, regional stakeholders and long-time residents yielded six central messages for Honaker's Downtown Revitalization.

Message #1

Currently, it is difficult for visitors and residents to get out of their cars and walk around Downtown Honaker. It is not clear where to safely walk and there is no opportunity for a pleasant pedestrian experience that is easily walkable, attractive and accessible.

Message #2

Whether people live in Honaker and need basic living amenities or are visiting and need a place to eat or get supplies, the downtown needs ample quality choices for retain, food and entertainment experiences.

Message #3

Existing traffic patterns encourage motorists to drive through Honaker - and not stop in its Downtown. The sharp turn where Redbud Highway meets Railroad Avenue in the heart of Downtown is confusing and potentially dangerous - especially to newcomers. In addition, parking options are scattered, not marked well and often on private land.

Message #4

Honaker has a regional connection to tourism with its pristine natural environment and its proud Appalachian heritage. The Town's location off Route 19, but not too far, is just the kind of biking/hiking/active vacation experience, and lifestyle that people outside the region are seeking. In addition, the traditions of the region can be told through the arts and craftsmanship of its people. Multiple regional and statewide initiatives within "Virginia's Great Southwest" are in high gear in promoting these qualities as a major economic engine. The Town is also in a good position to take advantage of two existing bike trails - the Bike Centennial Trail that goes directly through the Town as well as the Heart of Appalachia Trail that skirts the northern edge of Town.

Message #5

People who may want to experience Honaker as a lifestyle community need quality housing options in scale with their earning power. Recent extension of the town boundaries, and the infusion of several hundred new high-tech employees just minutes away creates a real opportunity for rental housing and single family homes. Senior citizens are already gravitating to the downtown area and Honaker offers a family-feel attractive to both newcomers and return citizens needing housing choices.

Message #6

Honaker has a strong historical identity regionally but is regarded as a town in decline to many. The revitalization of the Downtown can create new attractive physical realities but a new identity for Honaker will be critical to the success story. The image of the Town must be changed to one that embodies the traditional strengths and values but that also embraces 21st century amenities. Creating strong message that draws people in to work, live and play will shift regional perceptions and attract new visitors to the town.