112th Year, 45th Issue Thursday, June 21, 2001 Sparta, North Carolina

Bassett Walker building plan will house future telecenter, college

By ROBBY LUCKE
Staff

A group of local officials working to bring an information technology "telecenter" to Alleghany has obtained an option on the former Bassett Walker building.

While the possible recruitment is likely to be months from now, the older manufacturing building will give them a platform with which to start the process. The building was likely too old and outdated to be used for another manufacturing facility, officials have said. The ceilings are too low and other extensive renovations would be needed.

Looking over the plan — Britt Shaw, George Matuck, Patrick Woodie, Jack Conoway, Chris Robinson and Don Adams look over plans to renovate the old Bassett Walker building.

The telecenter committee — which does not yet have an official name — announced Tuesday that it has negotiated the option on the building. Included in the plan is the relocation of Wilkes Community College's Alleghany campus.

The officials were hopeful the telecenter would help the local economy by attracting and nurturing businesses. "From an economic development standpoint, this will be one of the best options we have of getting new jobs," said Patrick Woodie, a county commissioner who is also director of New River Community Partners.
 
 

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