Economic Development

As a leader in regional development, Farmville is considered the source of innovative thought and expertise with respect to sound economic growth throughout the region. By focusing on a diverse retail sector with special emphasis on small business, a high quality medical services community, and a highly visible system of recreational and tourism opportunities, the Town has seen growth in its tax base, its land area, and its population.

This growth has produced a prosperous Town and Region that is respected throughout the Commonwealth and is considered a healthy and desirable place to own a business or industry, live, work, and raise a family.

A Beautiful & Historic Community in Central Virginia

Farmville is nestled against the Appomattox River in the rolling hills of the Piedmont of Virginia. The Town of Farmville is a destination for tourism, recreation, retirement and trade not only because of its attention to infrastructure, but also because of its attention to its beauty. It is attractive to those who live, work or visit here. Its rich history and current status as a center of trade and commerce is preserved and enhanced by its dedication to architectural integrity and improvement of the natural environment through a system of parks, green spaces, walking trails and waterways. New growth and development of the Town incorporate the concepts of history, civic pride and natural beauty. Education programs ensure that our citizens appreciate the history of the region and the importance of beauty in creating a sense of community pride and well-being.

Geography

The Town of Farmville is 7.4 square miles and is located in both Cumberland and Prince Edward Counties in the Piedmont area of South-Central Virginia. The Town of Farmville is located in the center of the Commonwealth and is approximately 64 miles west of the City of Richmond, 47 miles east of the City of Lynchburg and 76 miles south of the City of Charlottesville. As the region's center of economic activity, Farmville's current service area captures a population of approximately 120,000 people.

Population

The Town's most recent population numbers according to the 2010 U.S. Bureau of Census is 8,216. While many Towns have experienced a decrease in population, the Town of Farmville's population increased 20% from the 2000 to 2010 Census. Farmville's current service area captures a population of approximately 120,000, more than the total population of most (32 out of 39 or 82%) of the Commonwealth's cities. This service area includes 8 counties and their respective 12 towns.

Retail Sales

Total retail sales in the Town of Farmville have been steadily increasing over the past several years. The total retail sales for the Town of Farmville in 2013 exceeded ½ billion dollars.

Employment

The Town's workforce is made up of Farmville town residents as well as many employees commuting into Farmville from surrounding counties. It is estimated that over 80% of the Town of Farmville's workforce travel from outside the Town limits. The Town has a good local labor force known for its honesty, work ethic and self-reliance.

Taxes

Amount per $100 assessed valuation:

• Real estate: $0.12
• Business personal property: $1.50

Community Facilities

The Town of Farmville prides itself on operating water and wastewater treatment plants which have been recognized for excellence by the State of Virginia. These facilities serve the Town as well as areas outside the Town limits. The Town also has a public works department which maintains the streets, operates a trash collection service and recyclable service. Farmville also provides full-time police protection. The Town also owns and operates an airport and has a recreational department which serves citizens in the Farmville area.

Housing

A good variety of adequate, safe and affordable housing is available in Farmville. There is sufficient housing in good condition suitable for singles, families and retirees.

Education

The Farmville area is fortunate to have excellent public and private schools. In addition, Longwood University, Hampden-Sydney College and Southside Virginia Community College offer the best in higher education.

Government

The Town of Farmville is governed by a seven-member Town Council and a Mayor. The Town Manager is the chief administrative officer of the Town.

Prospective Business / Industry

If you are a business/industry looking to locate in the Farmville Area please visit the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) website where you can search for properties and obtain local data on:

• Labor market
• Unemployment rates
• Education, transportation
• Utilities
• Financial institutions