Lincoln County is seeing a number of young locals choose to stay despite others moving away for better prospects. They are pushing for better jobs, improved roads, and more reliable cell service as part of their effort to upgrade their and attract more residents.

Creating a better tomorrow

Local coach Cody Lambert comments on the construction of the new $40 million Duval Middle School on Route 3, east of Hamlin. The previous school was unsafe and was shut down years ago, forcing students to study at the county school board building. The new school will cater to children from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade a much-needed addition for the local populace.

A Legacy Unfolded

Ironic traditions such as the Duval Yellow Jackets’ school colors being orange and black present a consistent narrative amidst an evolving landscape. A mistake that morphed into tradition when the jerseys came in erroneous shades over 100 years ago.

Shifts Across Time

Lambert, 33, mentions his memory has not seen much differ from his younger days except lesser machine shops and auto body garages back then. Unique from neighboring counties undergoing ups and downs during coal discoveries, Lincoln peaked in population around the 1980s with about 24,000 residents which now remains stable at approximately 20,000.

Challenges & Resolutions

Lambert’s peers have moved outwards but perhaps not too far only as far as close by cities such as Charleston, Barboursville or Huntington may be enough. Lambert himself lived in Huntington after finishing his studies. This migration pattern raises eyebrows among local leaders and contenders for a position in the 30th Delegate District, covering nearly the entire Lincoln County.

Earning Opportunities & Infrastructure

According to the U.S. Census, over 60% of those working in Lincoln County work outside of it. One in five travels up to an hour for work. The county school board and an organization taking care of seniors at home are its largest employers. This dearth of local employment options forces young adults to explore jobs outside.

Candidate Outlooks

The Democratic candidate and school nurse Britney Brogan stresses the urgency for infrastructure improvements and backing small businesses, which can lure new ventures. Jeff Eldridge, a Republican candidate and Ex House member, wishes to bring out natural resources to bolster tourism and infrastructure attracting companies down the line.

Community Bonding & Challenges

A graduate from Marshall University in 2021 named Lydia Roberts came back to Lincoln County since she appreciates her strong ties here and the spirit this community emanates. Lydia talks about difficulties such as lackluster medical facilities and substandard roads which make it less appealing for big businesses looking to shift bases.

Community Stories & Spirit

This sense of community is showcased by local symbols such as Chuck Yeager’s statue situated in Hamlin. Lucas Ashworth, a high school alumnus who came back home after his military stint nurtures deep affection for this tightknit society. He asserts that dedicated individuals should strive towards reviving its past glory with their efforts.

Commitment Towards Sports

Sports still serve as a unifying factor in Lincoln County’s context. Ashworth who works as a funeral attendant alongside coaching football mentions that even though high schools have merged, sports fixtures continue to rally communities together – so much so, towns close during Friday night matches.

Moving Forward

Both Brogan and Eldridge signify the necessity for road infrastructure upgrades and support for local firms. They concur that it’s crucial for the whole community to come together and unite to achieve shared objectives.

Personal Choices

Ambitions for Lambert involve going out of state with his future wife within about a year, while leaving the door open to return back someday as a retiree. On the other hand, Ashworth and his brother who coaches basketball are fixed on staying and lending their services to their hometown.

In Summation

The young citizens of Lincoln County strive to stay put while they work towards enhancing their community. By pushing for improved infrastructure, better job creation, and wider service delivery – their objective is turning Lincoln into an attractive place where future generations will opt to live and flourish.