Wolfe County, Kentucky is a community known for its beauty and hospitality. Near to Red River Gorge, on a major highway and only an hour from Lexington, the county has real potential to strengthen its economy through tourism and smart small businesses development.
Larrey Riddle, former Economic Development Director of Wolfe County, recognized the potential but needed help. His community had significant natural resources and a rich history but real economic needs.
MACED worked with the county to develop a community strategic plan that brought together local officials, businesses people and others community members interested in the future of the county. Through a series of meetings, more than 60 local participants sketched out a plan that aimed at balancing economic needs, a protected environment and improving the overall quality of life of the residents.
People in the county are working to make a difference—new organizations are developing, businesses are being formed and people continue to work on a major project to create a new monument to their Appalachian heritage.