Downtown Pulaski, VA Street Sign

Bringing Downtown Pulaski Back to Life

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Downtown Pulaski is on the up and up. The gorgeous, historic main street is about to experience some major upgrades.

The “Pilot Project” by West Main Development is now underway.

This project represents over $2.5 million of investment from the West Main Development, LLC, Virginia Housing Development Authority, Department of Housing Community Development, First Bank and Trust, Virginia Community Capital, and other funding sources.

West Main has plans to start with a few major projects.

Downtown Pulaski VA, Crescent City Cafe

Crescent City Cafe will open in about eight months at the adjacent storefronts at 85 and 89 West Main Street. The New Orleans style restaurant will feature fresh beignets and a stage for live music. 87 West Main Street is above the cafe and will be turned into two, two-bedroom apartments.

At 94 West Main Street, the building’s ground floor will be a virtual reality venue that plans to attract local students and tourists. The second floor will also be turned into two apartments.

The project was officially announced at what organizers called a “sledge hammer and hard hat ceremony,” before an official ribbon cutting, which will occur when the businesses open.

The event was attended by many supporters who are excited to see what’s next for Downtown Pulaski, including Delegate Chris Hurst and representatives from the offices of Senator Kaine and Congressman Morgan Griffith.

All Speakers:

The ultimate goal is to fully bring the Town of Pulaski’s main street back to life; to make it the place to be.

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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.

Eastern Divide Brewing Blacksburg NRV

Eastern Divide Brewing Coming Soon to Blacksburg

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Add another name to your list of hot spots in Virginia’s New River Valley, because Eastern Divide Brewing arrives in Blacksburg in Spring 2019.

According to the Roanoke Times, Eastern Divide will have the same head brewer as Rising Silo, a Farm Brewery in Montgomery County. Eastern Divide’s new facility will be 12,000 square feet. This space includes outdoor seating and an event space for 200 guests.

Eastern Divide won’t start by distributing beer, but focusing on tasting room sales instead. According to the Eastern Divide website the purpose of the brewery is “to provide a space for the community around us to celebrate, connect, and grow.”

The new brewery will serve many offerings that are brewed on site in addition to serving local food. They also expect to have an exciting program of events to celebrate and grow the community in the NRV.

Eastern Divide Brewing adds to the list of great breweries and wineries in the NRV that can be found on the food and drink page.

For more information about Eastern Divide, check out the recent coverage by the Roanoke Times, or the Eastern Divide website.

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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.

Pembroke RALLY Southwest Virginia Project

Pembroke Completes RALLY Southwest Virginia Project

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PEMBROKE, VA – The Town of Pembroke in Giles County completed a project using funds from the RALLY Southwest Virginia mini-grant program.

Pembroke RALLY southwest Virginia project

The grant provided a total of $3,000 and was facilitated by Opportunity SWVA. The finished project was officially revealed in late July.

The town used the money for beautification projects, which included a new kiosk, an upgraded facade for the municipal building, which featured an installation art piece, and fresh paint for the historic Pembroke public library.

Narrows, another town in Giles County, also completed a RALLY Southwest Virginia project last year. The project in Narrows created a new downtown sign to help direct residents and visitors to community and outdoor assets. The project also included a kiosk and large photos for downtown storefronts that promote local recreation opportunities.

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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.

NRV number 17 best college town

NRV Named #17 Best College Town by AIER

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (known as the New River Valley) was ranked the number 17 best college town in America (2017) by the American Institute for Economic Research. The NRV is home to over 40,000 students thanks to Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

NRV best college town
“It should come as no surprise that Virginia Tech supplies Blacksburg with high levels of innovation. In terms of bars and restaurants, ask any Tech student and they’ll tell you to head downtown to T.O.T.S., Gillie’s, or Sharkey’s for some amazing brews and grub. The MSA of Blacksburg also includes Radford University, a key player in the regional economy.”

AIER compiled the Best College Town results based on economic, demographic, and quality of life data points. Each “college town” has a population of less than 250,000.

AIER also gave the NRV the number 3 ranking for bars and restaurants.

Virginia Tech and Radford University often receive accolades and top rankings for their academic programs and fun atmospheres. Most recently, Virginia was ranked as the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S.

For more info about the other college rankings, visit AIER.

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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.

roam nrv bike share launches

NRV Bike Share Launches in Blacksburg and Christiansburg

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The NRV’s new bike share program, Roam NRV, has officially launched. Powered by Gotcha, the bikes are located in Blacksburg and Christiansburg and on the Virginia Tech Campus. Bikes can be found at “hubs,” which are detailed on the Roam NRV website.

According to the Roanoke Times, there is consideration to expand the program in the future. Some of the hubs may also change location depending on use or the potential for businesses to sponsor them.

Riders can reserve bikes through the Social Bicycles (SoBi) mobile app for Apple and Android.

For more information visit the Roam NRV website and start roaming the NRV today!

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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.

RU Planetarium

Seeing Stars at the RU Planetarium

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In 1970, a unique 24-foot diameter planetarium dome found it’s home in the New River Valley. Planetaria exist all over the world, but not many are like the one inside The Center for the Sciences at Radford University.

The perfectly smooth semi-circular dome was constructed by Harold Lester and Ken Hall using a handmade 90 degree trowel. They added a thick layer of hard plaster to suspended wire mesh frame, which eliminated the presence of any seams in the special dome.

Most planetarium ceilings are created with prefabricated panels, which have seams, and often allow light to “leak through” and create a minor distraction.

The only break in the seamless dome at RU is the a small cap covering a sprinkler for required fire extinguisher system that was later installed. Now the planetarium staff often use it to help visitors locate things in the sky.

The planetarium underwent an update and reopened in 2016 with 55 theater-style seats, a new projection system, and Dolby surround sound.

For many years, the RU Planetarium has served as a great asset for science education in Virginia’s New River Valley. Frequent visitors include school groups, Scouts, community groups, and more. It makes education fun and entertaining for any audience.

The Planetarium also participates in Science Days, which will relaunch in 2019 after the renovations of Reed and Curie Halls are complete. Science Days are day-long field trips that also feature activities with the Physics, Geology, Chemistry, Biology, and Forensics Departments.

If you missed the latest show at the RU Planetarium, “Seeing! A Photon’s Journey Across Space, Time, and Mind,” this week, watch out for Upcoming Shows in the future.

For more information visit the RU Planetarium Website.

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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.

Virginia Tech Ranked the #15 Best College Tailgate

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BLACKSBURG, VA – Virginia Tech was named the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S. by INSIDER with the help of Scott Backstrom, founder of Tailgate Master.

“The Hokies know how to give a Virginia Tech game day experience. Arrive early and check out the Hokie Walk and the Hokie Village for music and more!”

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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.

Blacksburg Farmers Market Ranked #9 in Virginia

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BLACKSBURG, VA – The Blacksburg Farmers Market was ranked number 9 in Virginia by HomeSnacks.net. The ranking was created by looking at data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Criteria included number of amenities, technology improvements, variety of items, population, and organic vendors.

Top Farmers Markets in Virginia (HomeSnacks):


1. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market, Virginia Beach, VA
2. Lynchburg Community Market, Lynchburg, VA
3. The South Of The James Farmers Market, Richmond, VA
4. Harrisonburg Farmers Market, Harrisonburg, VA
5. Sunday Brunch Market, Glen Allen, VA
6. Charlottesville City Market, Charlottesville, VA
7. Danville Farmers’ Market, Danville, VA
8. Grandin Village Farmers Market, Roanoke, VA
9. Blacksburg Farmers Market, Blacksburg, VA
10. Williamsburg Farmers Market, Williamsburg, VA

There are many active farmers markets in the New River Valley, serving each unique community in the region.

The Blacksburg Farmers Market takes place all year long in the middle of Downtown Blacksburg. For more info visit www.blacksburgfarmersmarket.com.

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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.

New River Water Trail

Giles to Break Ground on Newest Public Boat Landing

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Giles boat landing

FROM GILES COUNTY, VA – Throughout the month of June there have been ongoing celebrations of the outdoors as we celebrate Great Outdoors Month. Adding to the inventory of public access points to the New River, Giles County will break ground at the newest location on June 28th at 1pm. As part of an Appalachian Regional Commission POWER grant award, in partnership with the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation, Giles will be building or improving access points along the New River. This particular ground breaking will occur at the future home of the Eggleston Boat Landing. Located near the Palisades Restaurant this boat landing will be another asset that allows river goers easy, safe, and convenient access to the New River. The future boat landing will be located by turning from Eggleston Road, onto River Road and after crossing the railroad tracks turn left to go under the bridge.

The short ceremony will highlight the cooperative efforts, improvements to tourism assets throughout the region, and New River Water Trail successes. The New River Water Trail is a cooperative effort between Giles County Administration, Giles County Tourism, New River’s Edge, New River Outdoor Company, Tangent Outfitters, local passionate citizens, small business owners, and lodging businesses in the county. The trail itself is already in place- it is the river. The continued access and success of the New River Water Trail™ will help visitors navigate the river and explore the various sections that are ready to be discovered both on and off water!

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Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles provides adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

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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.

Telling the Story of Mary Draper Ingles

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – In the mid 1700s, Mary Draper Ingles was captured near her home in what is modern-day Blacksburg. Taken all the way to Kentucky, Ingles managed to escape her Shawnee captors and journey over 500 miles back home to Southwest Virginia by following the New River.

Mary Draper Ingles

It is said that Ingles, who represents many women who survived and escaped capture during this time, managed to climb the cliffs above the New River in what is now Eggleston to complete her journey home. Ingles trekked through Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and finally Virginia, to make her way home to Radford.

Ingles and her husband William Ingles established Ingles Ferry on the New River. The land and farm there is still owned by the family today.

The City of Radford revived a long-standing tradition of hosting performances of a play that tells Mary Draper Ingles’s story. The play, titled “The Long Way Home” ran from 1971-1999. A group of Ingles’s descendants worked to revive a version of the play, which started up again last summer.

“Walk to Freedom: The Mary Draper Ingles Story” will open at Nesselrod Bed and Breakfast starting this weekend. Showtimes will run on June 22nd-24th, July 13th-15th, and July 27th-29th.

The dedication to telling the story of Mary Draper Ingles is a look into the rich history of the area and the desire to make the history of a such a well-loved region entertaining for all generations. People who grew up in Virginia’s New River Valley have memories of watching or participating in the play and can now pass those memories on to their own children.

For tickets, visit www.nesselrod.com.

Visit www.MaryDraperInglesTrail.com for more information.

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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.