Press Release: State, Regional and Local Leaders Highlight Agenda for Alleghany Highlands Housing Summit

2025 AHEDC Housing Summit logo

Event will focus on expanding housing options for the regional workforce

Covington, Va. (Aug. 5, 2025) – An impressive lineup of state, regional and local leaders in housing and economic development highlights the program agenda for the Alleghany Highlands 2025 Housing Summit on Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Mountain Gateway Community College in Clifton Forge, Va. The event is co-hosted by The Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation (AHEDC) and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission (RVARC).

The event includes speakers and roundtable discussions aimed at creating a more impactful framework for housing investments in the region to support the regional workforce. Topics that will be explored during the 2025 Housing Summit include:

Among the distinguished speakers at the Summit are:

Organizers also have scheduled time for the participants to network and collaborate on strategies that support housing initiatives. Attendees will enjoy a morning mingling reception by Kanawha Cafe, a lunch provided by 42 Deli and a late afternoon reception provided by The Friendly Fork. 

An exhibit area for AHEDC partners and sponsors will be on-site for attendees to gather additional materials and information. Summit sponsors include Alleghany County, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools, City of Covington, Garten Trucking, Highlands Community Bank, Jason Helmintoller Team of Alcova Mortgage, Mountain Gateway Community College, Peoples Bank, S.J. Neathawk Lumber, The Alleghany Foundation, Town of Clifton Forge, Town of Iron Gate, Union Church Millworks and Virginia Housing.

“Alleghany County, the City of Covington, and the Towns of Clifton Forge and Iron Gate are aligned in their commitment to expanding housing options that attract young families and retirees alike, including workforce housing near employment centers, multi-unit and infill development, and more affordable entry-level homes, said Ken McFadyen, Alleghany County Administrator and Chair of the AHEDC.  “Together, we are also working to revitalize aging properties and strengthen the housing market across the region to support a thriving, resilient community.”

To learn more and register for the Alleghany Highlands Housing Summit, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-alleghany-highlands-housing-summit-tickets-1424426511039?aff=oddtdtcreator. Registration ends August 7, 2025. 

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About AHEDC

The Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation is the marketing organization promoting Alleghany County, the City of Covington and the Towns of Clifton Forge and Iron Gate in partnership with the Alleghany Foundation for business recruitment, expansion and development. A public/private partnership, AHEDC focuses on Site Readiness, Infrastructure Management, Site Selection Outreach and Workforce Development, serving as a key information source for applicable data, regulatory compliance and funding opportunities to help you successfully launch, expand or relocate a business to the region. Learn more at ahedc.com. 

About RVARC

Since its inception in 1969, the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, a Virginia Planning District Commission, has been a key driver in shaping Virginia’s regional landscape. Composed of elected representatives and local citizens, our team addresses crucial issues facing the region. Our primary areas of focus are enhancing transportation networks, bolstering economic programs, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Through teamwork and innovative strategies, we are dedicated to promoting enduring growth and the welfare of our communities. Learn more at rvarc.org.