Galax: Local Main Street Movement Grows Through Advancing Virginia Main Street Community Designation

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has designated Galax as Advancing Virginia Main Street (AVMS), along with eight other communities!

The City of Galax entered the two-year Mobilizing Main Street (MMS) accelerator program in January 2023. Through its participation, the Downtown Galax Association was refreshed and revamped to lead the downtown revitalization initiative, later becoming known as Downtown Galax Grows (DGG).

The City of Galax was established in 1906, nestled between Carroll County and Grayson County in Southwest Virginia. Galax was largely known for its industrial manufacturing, particularly furniture and textiles, up until the late latter half of the 20^th century. Galax is also well-known for being the “Old-Time Music Capital of the World” and is a key stop on the Crooked Road, Virginia’s musical heritage trail. Since 1935, Galax has hosted the Old Fiddlers Convention, showcasing local heritage through old-time and bluegrass Appalachian music. Today, Galax is still celebrated for its musical heritage, as well as the charming downtown and ripe outdoor recreation opportunities available.

In the coming years, DGG will focus their revitalization efforts on building their small business support network and helping to attract and retain small businesses in the downtown area – specifically targeting food, outdoor recreation, and ‘Made in Galax’ entrepreneurs. Utilizing the Four Point Approach helps DGG comprehensively work towards downtown revitalization.

Another key area of focus for DGG is improving the design and connectivity of downtown. As part of this effort, Galax secured a Virginia Business District Resurgence Grant from DHCD that funded a downtown master plan, as well as a Small Area Planning Grant focused on connectivity of key assets, including the Rex Theater and Chestnut Creek School of the Arts. DGG has also been partnering with the City to manage a façade improvement for the downtown, helping property owners be able to improve their buildings.

Additionally, the downtown non-profit organization was able to hire a full-time executive director, Hailey Ryan, to helm the effort.

“Being named an Advancing Virginia Main Street will have a profound impact on our community. It’s a recognition of the hard work and collaboration of countless individuals and organizations that have worked tirelessly to see Galax flourish. This designation will open up new opportunities for growth, revitalization, and continued investment in our downtown. It’s a testament to our community’s resilience, spirit, and dedication to creating a vibrant, welcoming space for residents and visitors alike. We are beyond excited for the future of Galax. This milestone is just the beginning, and we are eager to continue building on the momentum we’ve created. With the continued support of Virginia Main Street and the passionate people of Galax, the possibilities for our downtown are limitless. Together, we will continue to grow and make Galax a place we can all be proud of.”

– Hailey Ryan, DGG Executive Director

Virginia Main Street congratulates Galax and looks forward to continuing to support their efforts toward achieving Main Street America Accreditation.