Cynthia Boone Spurs Charles City’s Growth, Keeps Rural Charm
Some may consider Charles City County a quick pass-through. Nestled between Richmond and Williamsburg, it’s a rural community that’s easy to overlook. Yet every year, more than 400,000 cyclists travel its quiet roads along the Virginia Capital Trail.
Cynthia Boone, the county’s first-ever director of economic development and tourism, wants to turn those passersby into visitors who see the county for what it truly is: a destination worth exploring.
“People either have never heard of Charles City County, or they think there’s nothing here,” Boone says. “It’s always exciting to educate them on the variety of amenities we have.”
From the historic homes of Berkeley and Westover to romantic views at Upper Shirley Vineyards, Boone sees untapped potential in a place too often ignored.
“My hope is to keep Charles City County rural but yet boost the economy to help the community, the schools, the sheriff’s department,” she explains. “Anytime we can bring in more tax revenue, it has a positive impact all around.”
Just seven years ago, Boone was an administrative assistant learning the basics of economic development. Today, she helps lead major projects, like Market 5, which will host retail spaces inside repurposed shipping containers near the bike route. She calls it a trailblazing effort for rural communities, a simple and cost-effective way to create storefronts and attract new life to the area.
“We’re just really excited,” she says. “It’s going to be successful.” The initiative, along with local concerts and other events such as the Virginia Thanksgiving Festival, all play a part in Boone’s plan to change the way people see Charles City County.
Boone’s commitment to public service is unwavering and strengthened each day by the meaning she finds in small wins. “It’s always that one person that might come in and need something, and I’m able to help them,” she says. “That keeps me motivated knowing that it’s not in vain.”
When it comes to planning for her future, Boone has kept her priorities clear. From the start, she knew she wanted to work for an employer that offers VRS benefits and asked about coverage during the interview for her current role.
“When Charles City County called me, one of my first questions was about VRS,” she says. “I have a family – four children and a grandbaby. I just want to make sure I’m financially secure when that time comes.”
Boone was inspired by watching her mother retire comfortably with the help of VRS. “It showed me this is a clear path to retirement,” she says.
In her work to build a better Charles City County, Boone demonstrates a strong commitment to community, a focus on growth and thoughtful planning for the future. Her vision for the county, like her own career, is about ensuring a brighter tomorrow without losing the essence of what makes today worthwhile.
