Kristina Ramsey, Buena Vista’s director of economic development for nearly seven years, is leaving later this month to become the director of engagement and external affairs for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
Ramsey, a 2015 graduate of Parry McCluer High School, has been in her current position since August of 2019. She made the announcement of her pending departure at this past Thursday’s City Council meeting.
She expressed her appreciation for everyone who has supported her through the years, ever since she was hired as a then-22year-old not quite out of college. She said she remains “amazed” that her hometown entrusted her, a young but “proud Blue,” with the awesome responsibility of helping to shape Buena Vista’s economic fortunes.
Ramsey has enjoyed many successes in overseeing the city’s economic development. The downtown is a little more bustling, with new shops and eateries opening during her tenure. She’s been here for the opening of the Rockbridge Innovation Accelerator in the former Mundet-Hermetite factory building and Mountain Gateway Community College’s Wilson Workforce Development Center that’s drawing business traffic to downtown.
The biggest economic news that’s occurred during her tenure would have to be the announcement last year that Modine Manufacturing is investing $19.6 million in its Buena Vista operations and adding 57 new jobs. The company is relocating its heating division headquarters here and has taken over the former Rea Magnet factory building.
Ramsey has collaborated closely with Tom Roberts, Buena Vista’s director of community development, and Jen Carpenter, executive director of Main Street Buena Vista. Ramsey has had a hand in writing applications for funding grants that have brought a lot of economic development money into the city. A business façade improvements program is ongoing, as is a streetscape upgrade along the 21st Street corridor in downtown. She also played a big role in the establishment and development of Magnolia Town Square.
Ramsey’s last day on the job will be June 23. Her assistant, Ally Haney, will be the point of contact for economic development for the city after Ramsey’s departure. The city is beginning the search for Ramsey’s successor immediately.
