Editorial: Filling niches will help tourism in Charles City and New Kent

After 10 relaxing days of vacation, I returned back to Virginia somewhat refreshed. As I reflect on my vacation and look at the present states of Charles City and New Kent, I had a thought about possibilities to make the counties better by exploring different industries.

One thing that my vacation showed me is that there are a lot of untapped markets that both Charles City and New Kent can take advantage of. While both counties are thriving with recently approved projects and openings of different facilities, it is clear that Charles City and New Kent thrive on tourism the most.

In New Kent, the reopening of Colonial Downs and horse racing will bring in a lot of people. In Charles City, biking on the Route 5 trail allows a unique view of historical sites. But as with most tourism spots, there has to be change and evolution in order to keep people coming back.

When I traveled to a pretty popular tourist destination during my vacation, the biggest thing I noticed was the construction at many of their properties. These locations, with the newest turning 20 years old this year, are continuing to evolve and adapt for both the tourists and the change in times. By allowing itself to grow and recognizing these changing, this tourist attraction continues to bring in both new tourists and dedicated families who enjoy their facilities.

This is a concept that I personally would like to see New Kent and Charles City adapt. If both counties are going to use tourism as one their primary draws, they will need to bring in some sort of eye-catching place to garner more numbers to increase county revenue. I’m not saying bring in a massive facility or building, but rather a niche that could be a reason motorists divert their tour to visit.

An example of this could be a miniature golf course. Sure, it may not be very profitable to start but the cost to construct one may facilitate additions. For example, Charles City could construct one using the terrain and natural beauty of the landscape. Not only will this keep the aesthetic of an alluring environment, but the unique spin could be a reason tourists and even locals would stop by.

The same thing can be said about the exponentially growth of New Kent. More than likely, you will see at least one new hotel pop-up in the county to accommodate guests. But what if there was another form of entertainment? A movie theater or bowling alley could just be another outlet of entertainment for both locals and visitors. If you wanted to really put a twist in it, add a theme to be involved with it and connect it with the community. For example, say a bowling alley is constructed and for every football game the Trojans win, a person gets a free shoe rental or a buy one, get one free game. By doing this, it’s a connection with both the community and fills a void.

I know those aren’t really tourist attractions, but in my eyes, you have to be realistic in what is put in Charles City and New Kent. A theme park is about 99.9 percent a no-go due to two others close by, but small amenities and entertainment could be the reason why a person chooses to visit the county.

In the end, I hope both Charles City and New Kent leaders explore a lot of the missing niches for economic development. If they want to become a tourist spot, they need to attack it hard and continue to evolve and adapt. It takes an effort and the belief that something will succeed that will get the support from the locals to build it.