Downtown Radford

Radford Starts Downtown Revitalization

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Downtown Radford Theater

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The city of Radford was accepted into the Virginia Main Street Program as a Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) District Affiliate to help revitalize downtown Radford.

This means Radford has access to revitalization grants and training programs. The city hopes to become a Designated Virginia Main Street Community in the future.

The city of Radford is a great place to live and work. Home to Radford University, it’s also a great place to receive a world-class education. Radford is consistently named a great place to live and downtown Radford can only improve by partnering with the DHCD.

About the DHCD

The Virginia DHCD aims to better communities in the commonwealth by developing economic potential, regulating codes, and investing millions of dollars each year into housing and community development projects. The DHCD partners with governments, nonprofits, and other groups to make life better for Virginians.

The Virginia Main Street Program is an economic and community development program that assists communities to revitalize historic commercial districts. The program mainly focuses on small to mid-sized downtown areas.

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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.

BAE Systems DARPA

BAE Systems Is Pioneering Defense Autonomy

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Autonomous technologies are a lot more visible in 2018 than they were decades ago, but they were definitely still around. In fact, NRV Company BAE Systems was (and still is) leading the charge.

BAE Systems has been working on advanced automated technologies for over 20 years. It is the top provider for almost every significant U.S. Department of Defense program. BAE was even the first developer of the technology used in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Join Unmanned Combat Air System (J-UCAS) program.

Now BAE has expanded to other areas and continues to make great strides in the unmanned systems industry.

For more information, check out “BAE Systems A Pioneer of Autonomy Technologies for More Than 20 Years” on the BAE Systems 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.

Love Sculpture Pearisburg

‘LOVE’ Sculpture Completed in Pearisburg

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FROM GILES COUNTY, VA – The story begins during the 2017 Giles Summer Feeding Program. The story continues through the 2017-2018 school year. The story is about to make its permanent mark on the landscape of Giles County. On August 21 at 2pm a brand new LOVE sculpture will be unveiled in Pearisburg with special guests and a short ceremony.

But what makes this ‘LOVE’ so special? This public art installation features over 3,500 rocks, from Giles County, painted by every child age 4 through 12 in public, private, and home school. This ambitious project is a joint effort between the Giles County Public Schools, Giles Early Education Project (GEEP), the Summer Feeding Program, county employees, volunteers, and residents. For the last year, volunteers and faculty members have been working with young people to express their creative side by painting rocks that in some way, represents who they are or what makes them special.

New LOVE Sculpture

Love Sculpture Pearisburg

Work has been underway near the Giles County Courthouse since early July supported by local masons and ACCE student volunteers. The concept and design work was completed by a local group of teachers and volunteers. Funding for the LOVE sculpture has come from gracious donations from The Palisades Restaurant and community organizations. The Virginia Tourism Corporation, who markets state-wide LOVEWorks, also awarded a mini grant to support the construction costs. The finished project will stand approximately 6 foot high and 12 foot long, with all 3,500 rocks uniquely representing Giles. It will be located along Main Street between the Courthouse and Treasurer’s Office.

On August 21st guests are invited to the unveiling of Virginia’s newest LOVE and a true celebration of travel, people, and community. Special guests include The Honorable Governor Ralph Northam, representatives from Virginia Tourism Corporation, Giles County School Board members, project leaders, and the students themselves. There will be plenty of parking in the municipal parking lot at the Courthouse.

Contact

Cora Gnegy
Giles County Tourism Marketing Department
540-921-2079
cgnegy@gilescounty.org
203 N. Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134

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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 offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain PlaygroundTM. 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.

first residential drone delivery

First Residential Drone Delivery Completed in Montgomery County

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Virginia’s New River Valley – Two-year-old Jackson Smith from Montgomery County received a very special delivery last Tuesday: a popsicle. But this popsicle was inside what is considered the most advanced drone package delivery in America.

After the Smith family clicked “Confirm Order” on an app, a drone flew 1.4 miles from a simulated “store” to deliver the goods. Instead of the drone touching back down in a residential area, it lowered the package using a tether. According to Bloomberg the whole process took about six minutes.

The demonstration was conducted by Wing, a subsidiary of Google, a Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership. It was an FAA-approved test under the U.S. government’s Integration Pilot Program.

Wing hopes to commercially launch this kind of program in the future.

For more information, check out coverage from Bloomberg or the Roanoke Times.

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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.

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.