Following the recent announcement of its acceptance into the Virginia Main Street Program as a Commercial District Affiliate, the City of Radford takes its first step in developing a strategic plan for the city’s business districts.
The general citizen public input portion of the program will be held from 5:30-7p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18 at the NRVCS Training Room (401 W Main St.).
This is the community’s opportunity to provide input and help shape the future of Radford’s business district.
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, through the Virginia Main Street program, is helping Radford to facilitate community engagement by introducing the Main Street Approach® and soliciting input around the topic of downtown revitalization from a variety of community stakeholder groups and the public.
“This is a great opportunity for our community members to come together to exchange suggestions and provide feedback as we continue to develop strategies that will encourage new business and enhance our existing merchants within our commercial districts,” Economic Development Director Blair Hoke said.
DHCD will work with Radford to create a revitalization work plan for the city’s downtown based on stakeholder and citizen input and increase public support for the downtown merchants.
During the public input session, DHCD will share background material on the Main Street Approach®, followed by brainstorming sessions.
At the conclusion of the community engagement program, DHCD staff will present their findings and draft recommendations at a public meeting from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 19 in the NRVCS Training Room.
The city’s Facebook page said that information can be sent leading up to the meetings as well.
“[Citizens] can send any input regarding Radford to Blair Hoke at Blair.Hoke@radfordva.gov or to 10 Robertson St., Radford, VA 24141. The information will then be passed along to the Virginia Main Street Representatives. Please have your information submitted by September 17 at 5:00 p.m.”
