Last month, the River District Association (RDA) held its annual meeting and celebrated 25 years of downtown revitalization! The event spotlighted how the City of Danville’s River District has undergone a remarkable transformation and become a vibrant hub of economic activity, cultural richness and community pride. Reflecting on the positive impact of revitalization efforts, not only in the physical landscape but also the sense of belonging and camaraderie fostered among residents and businesses, local leaders’ remarks centered on what can be achieved through vision, determination and collective action.

“It’s been not only fun but extremely important to look back over the last 25 years. It takes many hands for this work to be successful, and it’s a great opportunity to remind anyone that has been a part of the downtown – including shopping at our locally owned businesses – is a part of the success. Every hand that touched this work has left a lasting fingerprint on our community and is a part of a legacy that will go on to improve the lives of generations to come.”

Diana Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer, River District Association

Evident in the landscape of Danville are tangible signs of progress, including the long-awaited redevelopment of the historic White Mill building that’s currently underway. The iconic property will soon be a multi-use residential and commercial space (Dan River Falls) that will activate and bring new life to a building that many area residents, past and present, view as a symbol of home and Danville’s rich history. In addition, the repurposing of tobacco warehouses, the establishment of nearly 1,000 housing units in the downtown area, and the expansion of Averett University’s presence within the River District have not only revitalized physical spaces but also stimulated economic growth and community cohesion.

The impact of Danville’s revitalization efforts is quantifiable, with notable achievements such as the creation and retention of 623 jobs, the establishment of 146 new or expanded businesses, attracting more than $113 million in private investment and the contribution of over 10,247 volunteer hours with an estimated market value of $325,855. However, beyond these metrics lies the essence of Danville’s transformation—a reinvigorated and distinctive sense of place.

Apart from the hard work of RDA and its partners, critical to the success of these endeavors has been strategic investment from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), totaling more than $6 million over the past eight years. This funding has provided crucial support for Danville’s downtown revitalization initiatives, such as the White Mill redevelopment, RDA Dream Launch, and other small business support and placemaking projects, furthering the the community’s evolution into a vibrant and welcoming community.

“The River District is experiencing a comeback that’s inspiring to many other communities looking for their own comeback story. As a Great American Main Street Award winner, Danville helps them see what’s possible!”

Courtney Mailey, Program Manager, Virginia Main Street

Here’s to many more years of continued success and prosperity for Danville!

Photo Credit (RDA Annual Meeting): Felice McWilliams

Photo Credit (Dan River Mills): Danville Register & Bee

Photo Credit (Ballad): The Travel Life

Photo Credit (River District): River District Association