The Roanoke Avenue Business Alliance has hired current Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail Manager Lance Jenkins to serve as its next Main Street manager.

Jenkins, who has worked as the manager of the museum and trail since August 2010, will assume his new role as Main Street manager on October 3.

Steve Dennis, president of RABA said “We look forward to Lance's leadership and innovation as part of the RABA team. As an integral part of the RABA, city and county partnership, we believe he will be instrumental as we implement our work plan that was developed in conjunction with the N.C Main Street Resource Team, residents, political leaders, and the business and property owners of the Roanoke Valley. “

“I am very excited and eager for the opportunity RABA has afforded me,” said Jenkins. “I whole-heartedly believe that the Roanoke Avenue district can thrive as an historical downtown district and I can assure you that I along with my colleagues will be working countless hours to make it happen.”

Jenkins has a masters of public administration from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont and a bachelor of science in history from Chowan University in nearby Murfreesboro. He is a native of Northampton County and continues to reiterate his commitment to this area.

“I love Roanoke Rapids and the surrounding area,” Jenkins said. “I have grown here over the years and have a strong desire to stay in this area and work toward bettering the lives of those who call this region home.”

While Jenkins will no longer be working directly for the city, he has made clear that his goal is still “to work toward the betterment of the city of Roanoke Rapids.”

“Our overall goal is to work to move the Avenue district, the city, and greater area forward,” Jenkins said. “My and RABA’s relationship with the city is extremely positive and we will continue to work together to make great things happen for this area.”

The mission of RABA is to alleviate the physical, economic, and social deterioration and increase economic activity and employment in the Avenue district. RABA seeks to enhance the overall commercial environment and to assist in the historic preservation of the Avenue.

For more information on RABA or the Main Street Program, visit www.roanokeavenue.com