Over the past few years, the Town of Halifax has worked tirelessly to transform downtown Halifax into a hub of activity! Putting its “Halifax Downtown Connections Plan” into action, local leaders and dedicated volunteers / working groups have begun to revitalize the area with improved parking and pedestrian connections, adding wayfinding signage, enhancing alleyways and redeveloping highly visible sites in the Halifax Court House Historic District.
In 2021, the Town of Halifax received a $7,000 Virginia Main Street (VMS) Community Vitality Grant (CVG) from the Virginia Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) – a $5,500 plus up was awarded in 2023 – to aid these efforts, particularly the alleyway enhancement project and new “thematically cohesive” wayfinding signage downtown. Leveraging additional public and private funds, including a ChangeX / Microsoft “Urban Thinkscape” grant, support from the South Boston Rotary Club, and a generous donation from Hitachi Energy, more than $100,000 was committed to creating a more attractive and welcoming environment for local residents and visitors.
Halifax Wayfinding Improvements
The Town of Halifax recognized the need for a coordinated sign program to improve the functionality and appearance of downtown Halifax. Since the re-opening of the renovated courthouse, foot traffic downtown increased, and opportunities arose for new businesses to locate to Halifax. Developing a system made up of eye-catching pedestrian- and auto-oriented signs that are comprehensive and unified would not only get residents and visitors alike to destinations and public facilities, safely parked, and on their way to a satisfying experience but also position the district to support additional economic development projects.
Halifax Alleyway Enhancements
While the Town of Halifax intended to only activate one alleyway as part of its overall “Downtown Connections” plan, the generosity and enthusiastic cooperation of property owners allowed the project footprint to expand, incorporating two alleyways that connect South Main and Houston Street and run parallel to several downtown buildings. This expansion empowered project leaders to amplify their placemaking efforts and enhance the visual impact of another underutilized space.
Apart from landscaping upgrades, hardscape pathways (recycled concrete with river rock edging) and other beautification elements, the North alleyway features a mural painted by Obie Coleman, a South Boston native, that highlights county landmarks, including the South Boston Speedway.
“I just wanted something that kids can come see, something to create a more festive and inclusive environment where people want to come and see some artwork that might inspire them.
Obie Coleman, Artist
The South alleyway also features a bright and captivating mural, created by Raleigh, NC artist and Halifax native Suzanne Gasperini O’Hara, providing a bookend to the Halifax County map mural. Located on the side of the 99 South Main Street building, owned by Richard and Heather Chipps Townsend, the vibrant mural’s “Keep Growing” theme is a result of a group effort to engender a positive community message, one that’s centered around growth, energy and sustainability.
“The message of ‘Keep Growing’ mirrors the continuous progress of our vibrant community. As a native of Halifax County, witnessing its transformation is a source of profound joy. I feel the trajectory of growth is unwavering and we are excited to be a small part of this impactful project for years to come.”
Heather Chipps Townsend, Owner of Atelier Halifax Studio & Gathering Space
As a major corporate funder, Hitachi Energy donated funds to ensure the completion of the mural, as well as other alleyway improvements, hence the official name of the project, Hitachi Inspiration Alley.
“This project started out as a conversation and grew to an incredible mural that will change the look and feel of downtown Halifax for years to come. We are so excited to be a part of the change to hopefully bring a smile and a little bit of encouragement to each person who walks by the mural every day! Being able to work with so many wonderful people and organizations to make this happen has been so gratifying to Hitachi Energy.”
Ryland Clark, Community Relations & Engagement Manager
By reclaiming these neglected spaces and infusing them with new life, the Town of Halifax and its partners have not only beautified downtown Halifax but also fostered a sense of connection and community pride. These pedestrian-friendly spaces serve as catalysts for social interaction, cultural engagement, and economic revitalization, enriching the downtown experience for residents and visitors alike!
The Hitachi Inspiration Alleyway was officially “revealed” during the Light Up Houston Street! event last fall, marking a significant milestone in the community’s ongoing efforts to revitalization its historic core. While the project’s completion symbolized a triumph of collaboration and dedication, it also served as a reminder that there’s still much work to be done. Building upon the momentum generated by the successful activation, as well as wayfinding improvements, the community is now rallying behind a broader vision for revitalization.
Through continued partnership between local government, businesses, residents, and community organizations, downtown Halifax is poised to undergo a transformative renewal, preserving its rich heritage while creating a dynamic and thriving downtown center!
Virginia Main Street 