Editor’s note (Dec. 4, 2024): The funding agency for the Solutions for Lasting, Viable Energy Infrastructure Technologies Prize, or SOLVE IT Prize was misidentified when this blog was originally published. That has now been corrected.

Back in July, I wrote about the exciting developments in my hometown of Pennington Gap, Virginia, as local investments in small business combined with state and federal investments in infrastructure and clean energy have converged to spark hope and optimism in a town that has known its fair share of struggles over the last three decades. Appalachian Voices has been central to this movement, connecting Pennington Gap with funding and resources while encouraging a transformation that local residents are truly coming together to support.

As Central Appalachia adapts to a changing modern economy that is less dependent on traditional economic drivers like the coal industry and agriculture, Pennington Gap stands as an inspiring example of what a committed, collaborative approach to economic renewal can achieve. In this blog, we’ll explore the key projects and partnerships that are shaping a more sustainable future for this small town with big ambitions. 

The SOLVE IT Prize

The Solutions for Lasting, Viable Energy Infrastructure Technologies Prize, known as SOLVE IT, is awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy and is aimed at communities like Pennington Gap that are seeking innovative, long-term solutions for local environmental and energy challenges. Appalachian Voices and town leadership have already secured the first round of SOLVE IT prize funding, which totaled $80,000. Appalachian Voices is now working with town leadership to potentially secure $150,000 in Phase 2 funding, which would open doors for even more significant investments in Pennington Gap’s clean energy infrastructure.

A component of this funding includes regular engagement with Pennington Gap residents, including through webinars and listening sessions where community members have the chance to weigh in on their vision for the town’s future. On Nov. 7, Appalachian Voices hosted the second SOLVE IT webinar, and an advisory council of five Pennington Gap residents is guiding this process, ensuring that the town’s unique needs and values remain at the heart of the initiative. 

The Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem Solving Grant

Another major source of funding that Pennington Gap has leveraged in partnership with Appalachian Voices is the Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem Solving grant, also administered by the EPA. Through this funding, the Community Strong listening session series has taken root across the Southwest Virginia towns of Pennington Gap, Pound, Clinchco, Dungannon and Dante. 

The goal of these sessions is to help build an open, community-based dialogue about each town’s vision and concerns, empowering residents to lead the path forward, with the end goal being to develop shovel-ready projects for each community that will increase the economic strength and environmental resilience of each of the five towns.In Pennington Gap, residents identified the old Cas Walker supermarket building beside the Powell River on the outskirts of town as a top priority for redevelopment. 

This now-abandoned building, which has served as everything from a supermarket to a roller skating rink to a gym throughout its long history, has often been prone to severe flooding and has fallen into disrepair over the last decade. Removing the building and repurposing the space is a significant step in Pennington Gap’s renewal and could allow for new businesses and community projects to develop in the space.

Another focal point for residents was the local ballpark, Leeman Field, and the surrounding area. The EJCPS sessions have also helped Appalachian Voices shape plans to improve the Greenway around Leeman Field, making it not just a community asset but a beacon of Pennington Gap’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Community Flood Preparedness Grant 

As evidenced by the recent Hurricane Helene disaster, flooding is a pressing concern for many Appalachian communities, and Pennington Gap is no exception. With the support of the State of Virginia’s Community Flood Preparedness Fund, which provides support for communities across Virginia to reduce the impacts of flooding,and in partnership with local experts, Appalachian Voices is laying the groundwork for flood mitigation strategies that will align with the community’s needs.

In October, Appalachian Voices hosted a Community Flood Preparedness Fund listening session specifically for Pennington Gap residents. During this session, David Hirschman of Hirschman Water and Environment, LLC, and Kip Mummaw of Ecosystem Services presented information on flood risks and solutions while encouraging attendees to actively contribute their ideas. Residents were able to visualize a future for their town that emphasizes safety and resilience in the face of flooding. Planting native species and Powell River clean up efforts were among the main suggestions from locals residents.

While the initial stages of planning for a more resilient energy system that can better withstand natural disasters is still taking shape, the enthusiasm from residents and local leaders alike suggests that solar power could soon play a transformative role in Pennington Gap’s economy.

The potential solar installations around Leeman Field, for instance, could provide clean, renewable energy to the community while reducing utility costs and providing benefits to tourism initiatives that would resonate throughout the local economy. These initiatives are being developed with careful consideration of community input. 

Pennington Gap’s ongoing revitalization is a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities shape their own future, and the town’s journey serves as a blueprint for other Appalachian communities that have faced similar challenges. With the support of Appalachian Voices and the partnerships established through programs like DOE’s SOLVE IT and EPA’s Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem Solving grants, residents of Pennington Gap have a direct hand in building a future that is economically vibrant, environmentally sustainable and community-centered.

For more updates on Pennington Gap and similar community projects, keep an eye on Appalachian Voices’ blog, where we’ll continue to share stories of transformation, resilience and hope from across the region. For more information about these projects, please contact kara@appvoices.org.