Heather Bell
RADFORD – The site of a vacant service station will soon be a place to gather, as well as provide needed parking in the city’s west end business district.
“The sound of heavy construction equipment and crumbling cement were heard on West Main Street as the old landmark site in Radford was demolished this week,” writes Radford Economic Development Director Kim Repassin a statement on Wednesday. “The Triangle Service Station property, which serviced the automotive needs of Radford citizens for more than seven decades, has now become the site of a revitalization and improvement initiative for the City of Radford.”
Repass explained the Radford Economic Development Authority purchased the property earlier this month and the site was subsequently cleared.
“Plans for the space will be to support the needs and goals of a community open space,” she said. “The project will include additional parking, sidewalk improvements, a paver surface area, lighting improvements, landscaping, ADA accessibility, a possible statue/artwork location and some seating and eating areas.”
Radford City Manager David Ridpath said the project is a great improvement for the city.
“This is a significant improvement for our West Main Street business district, as well as our overall community redevelopment initiative,” said Ridpath. “The EDA’s (Economic Development Authority) overall plan for the site will be an asset to the Radford community and one we will all be very proud of.”
Radford Mayor David Horton said the project will give a nice new area for community members to gather.
“The improvements to West Main Street by converting the old Triangle Service Station into public open space will be fantastic,” said Horton. “A new vista on the outstanding businesses that are located in that district, combined with a place to gather and enjoy time with friends will greatly enhance our community. “Thank you to Ralph and Jonathan Stewart who recently owned the property for entertaining the desire of the Radford EDA to improve this property. Once completed, the new space will be an asset for the entire City.”
The EDA is working quickly to get some enhancements in place before the beginning of winter weather. Other additional improvements will be completed by spring of 2020.
– Kim Repass
City of Radford
