Job growth in the NRV

While many communities are still struggling with a lack of jobs the New River Valley is growing. In April of 2008, there were about 79,000 people working. According to the Virginia Employment Commission, the recession bottomed out in January 2010 with just 70,000 jobs. As of March, there are over 81,000 people working. Officials from the New River Economic Development Alliance say the NRV's economy is diverse, with higher education facilities, a growing manufacturing industry and IT and high tech companies. Officials say the corporate research center is also growing along with tourism. Aric Bopp with the NRV Economic Development Alliance says to stay ahead of the curve they've invited two companies to tour the NRV in hopes they will call it "home."