Community Profile
Location
Smyth County is located in Southwest Virginia. Interstate 81 runs through the county's central valley, and intersects with Interstate 77 approximately 25 miles northeast of the Town of Marion, the seat of county government.
Smyth County's prime location in the southeastern United States and its interstate highway access, combined with the quality of its work force, have made it one of the prime manufacturing centers in Virginia in recent years. Industry representatives cite the county workforce's productivity, loyalty, trainability, and outstanding work ethic as a major determinant in their location decisions. Continued expansion of technology services, including fiberoptic telecommunications, offer business and residents high quality and increased opportunites.
Population
Based on the 2010 Census, the population of Smyth County is 32,208, with populations in the incorporated communities, Marion 5,968, Chilhowie 1,781 and Saltville 2,077.
US Census Bureau Quick Facts
Climate
The average temperature in mid-summer is 71 degrees, with the average mid-winter temperature of 31. Annual precipitation averages 41 inches, with an average snowfall of 20 inches.
Education
Smyth County's public school system is governed by an elected school board. All of Smyth County, Virginia's public schools are accredited by the Virginia Department of Education, with county-wide full accreditation for the past 5 years, and have achieved District Accreditation by AdvancEd. 40% of Smyth County's teachers have advanced degrees. Approximately 75% of Smyth County graduates continue their educations after high school.
Quick Facts
Government
Smyth County is governed by a Board of Supervisors, whose members are elected from each of the seven magisterial districts in the county. A County Administrator is appointed by the board. Smyth County has a Planning Commission, an Industrial Development Authority, a comprehensive plan, zoning and subdivision ordinances. Marion, Chilhowie, and Saltville are incorporated towns with Mayor/Council forms of Government.
Smyth County Government
The Smyth County Board of Supervisors meets on the second Tuesday of every month. Meeting Schedule
Town of Chilhowie
The Chilhowie Town Council meets on the second Thursday of every month.
Town of Marion
The Marion Town Council meets on the first and third Monday of every month.
Town of Saltville
The Saltville Town Council meets on the second Tuesday of every month.
Industry
There are approximately 30 industries producing a wide variety of products in Smyth County. Agriculture also makes a significant contribution to the county's economy.
Major and Industrial Employers Listing
Medical
Primary provider of health care services is the new Smyth County Community Hospital with acute care services, cancer center, inpatient rehabilitation unit, and a dedicated staff of doctors and medical professionals. In addition to the hospital, located in Marion, Smyth County has several clinics and long-term care facilities to assist in serving the needs of the community. Southwestern Virginia Mental Health Institute, located in Marion, provides in-patient psychiatric treatment and rehabilitation for the region's adolescents, adults, and geriatric aged persons. Referral is through the local Community Services Board in each county. Mount Rogers Community Services Board provide various services including mental and physical health treatment and substance abuse intervention. The Smyth County Health Department also provides services throughout the county, with the Marion office serving as the Headquarters for the Mount Rogers Health District.
Transportation
Smyth County is traversed by Interstate 81, and is located only 25 miles southwest of Interstate 77 in Wythe County. Seven interchanges bring traffic off the interstate into the communities and provide easy access to the majority of Smyth County. 21 motor freight carriers and 4 terminals serve the area. Air Transportation is provided by Tri-Cities Regional Airport and Roanoke Regional Airport, and general aviation facility with 5,250-foot lighted runway is available at the Mountain Empire Airport, located nine miles west of Marion. A Norfolk Southern mainline provides bulk and mixed freight service, containerized piggyback and team track service to Smyth County.
Utilities
Electricity for Smyth County is provided by Appalachian Power Company. Atmos Energy Corporation is the local provider for natural gas. Water is provided by the towns of Chilhowie, Marion, and Saltville, and the Thomas Bridge Water Corporation. Telephone service is provided by Bristol Virginia Utilities, CenturyLink, and Comcast.
For more information or to request a relocation packet, CLICK HERE.