NRV Community Building Projects Win ARC Funding

New River Valley, VA – Community building projects in Pulaski and Montgomery Counties were recently recommended for funding by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The two NRV projects are among 13 projects that, according to Governor Ralph Northam, “align with [Virginia’s] ongoing efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of all those in our Appalachian communities by creating new economic opportunities, building critical infrastructure, preparing a skilled workforce, and supporting community development.”

Here is more detailed information about both projects:

Calfee Training School Adaptive Reuse
$500,000
Town of Pulaski
This project will repurpose an historic African American school into a childcare center, commercial kitchen, digital learning lab, and museum highlighting local Appalachian African American leaders and history. In addition, the project will provide an event space for community use, cultural and educational programming, and small business incubation and meeting spaces. The project will retain 64 full-time jobs and create 17 full-time jobs through the construction of the facility.

Montgomery Museum of Art and History
$25,000
Montgomery County
This project will expand the Montgomery Museum of Art and History to provide more exhibit, event, and research space as well as create new digital and technological infrastructure and improve care of the collections. The expansion will enhance community engagement, accessibility, diversity, and sustainability of museum programming, supporting the community and economic development efforts of Southwest Virginia.

Click here to learn more about the Calfee Community & Cultural Center.

Click here to learn more about the Montgomery Museum of Art and History.

Click here to read the full press release about the community building projects around the Commonwealth that were recommended for ARC funding.

Click here to learn more about the communities in Virginia’s New River Valley.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.