Business climate in Boone shows signs of improvement six months after Helene

A new report from the Watauga Economic Development Commission finds that business is improving six months after Helene. But many are still seeking financial security as the summer tourist season approaches.

The commission has been reporting results from anonymous business surveys every month since the storm hit in late September.

President and CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce David Jackson says the figures show business leaders are starting to feel better about the post-Hurricane mountain economy.

Half are reporting they’re meeting revenue expectations  — that’s actually an improvement — and 62% say they expect conditions to improve.

But Jackson says many are now facing concerns over the national economy. He says market uncertainty and the global trade wars could have an impact on the vital summer tourist season.

“When you look at the Helene-related financial instability, coupled with further uncertainty in the economy overall, this is not the greatest time to have one arm tied behind your back,” he says.

He says the area will need a strong summer to help heal from the storm’s damage to the region. 

Jackson says a busy ski season shows the mountains are ready to handle big crowds again.