The Town of Altavista received a 2023 Financial Feasibility Grant (FFG) award to determine the highest and best use of the community’s historic Vista Theatre. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the building was constructed in 1930 and served as a theatre / live performance center until the mid-1980s when it closed due to a fire, which greatly impacted businesses and the community.

In April 2021, the Town of Altavista purchased the Vista Theatre and has actively sought to address its blighted condition over the past few years. With support from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Virginia Main Street (VMS) program, FFG funds will aid Altavista in its efforts to develop the property or “shop” the rehabilitation and reuse of the Vista Theatre to private developers and investors. The grant will fund the development of preliminary design reports and renderings, building code and zone assessments, pro forma development and construction estimates, environmental reports, market demand studies and gap-financing research as needed.

Ultimately, the feasibility study project will identify new market-supported uses for the Vista Theatre, as well as the Main Street district as a whole, and inform a well-crafted marketing strategy that will help fill downtown vacancies, advance the community’s overall vision and improve downtown’s economic vitality.

“The rehabilitation of the building into a structure used as an entertainment venue with additional commercial space is certain to draw more people to the downtown area and support new and existing businesses. In addition to providing entertainment to the public, the Town of Altavista believes the rehabilitation of the theatre will provide another venue to showcase local talent as well.”

– Sharon Williams, Community Development Director, Town of Altavista

If you’re ever passing through or visiting downtown Altavista, keep an eye out for this building’s transformation!

Photo Credit (Lead Image): WDBJ 7

Photo Credit (Gallery Left): The News & Advance

Photo Credit (Gallery Middle): The News & Advance

Photo Credit (Gallery Right): ABC 13 News