Lift Off for Rhodhiss: Old Glory Mill Launches at Investor Convening
On August 20, Burke River Trail Association had the honor of representing the Town of Rhodhiss and our Old Glory Mill project at the Opportunity Appalachia Investor Convening in Asheville. The convening brought together community leaders, developers, and mission-driven investors from across Central Appalachia to highlight catalytic projects that are transforming small towns through housing, business development, and revitalization.
BRTA was invited to present Old Glory Mill — a $28 million redevelopment that will bring 80 apartments, six new businesses, 54 jobs, and direct access to the Burke River Trail. Executive Director Beth Heile kicked off the day as the first of 28 projects selected to pitch, setting the tone with passion, polish, and a clear vision of how a historic textile mill can become a vibrant trail-town hub for living, gathering, and community life.
The results spoke for themselves. Investors and lenders were quick to engage, with several approaching immediately after the presentation and follow-up meetings already underway. The response confirmed what we’ve known all along: Rhodhiss is ready, and the combination of historic preservation, outdoor recreation, and community-driven planning is exactly the kind of investment opportunity people are seeking.
For BRTA, the convening underscored why our work matters. By serving as a partner for small towns like Rhodhiss — connecting trails, sparking revitalization, and leveraging regional partnerships — we help ensure that communities without large staffs still have a seat at the table for transformative opportunities.
Project Info
- Opportunity Appalachia Blue Dot Page with video, presentation slides, files and more
- Burke River Trail Project Summary Page
- Old Glory Mill Video