Be Positive: Dealing Disaster Part 2 of 2

While earthquakes and tornadoes are rare in most of the commonwealth, hurricane season is a regular fixture on our calendars in Virginia. The season typically runs from June to November with heightened activity August to October. This is the second of a blog series centered on Danville, Virginia’s experience recovering from Hurricane Michael in 2018 … More Be Positive: Dealing Disaster Part 2 of 2

2020 Virginia Main Street Small Business Relief Grants Making an Impact Across the State

It goes without saying that it’s been an unprecedented year for all of us, but the adaptability, strength and resilience of our network here in Virginia never ceases to impress us. When everything changed, seemingly overnight, back in March our Main Street communities suddenly faced a long list of new challenges, and at the forefront … More 2020 Virginia Main Street Small Business Relief Grants Making an Impact Across the State

2020 Best Public Improvement Project: St. Paul

Spanning seven years and seven blocks, St. Paul finally completed its comprehensive downtown infrastructure project in 2019. Lead by the town, with input from St. Paul Tomorrow’s Design Committee in the early stages, this $16 million project reconstructed the stormwater system, sidewalks, curbing, roadways, crosswalks, water lines and sanitary sewer lines. The need for upgrading … More 2020 Best Public Improvement Project: St. Paul

Be Prepared: Dealing with Disaster Part 1 of 2

While earthquakes and tornadoes are rare in most of the commonwealth, hurricane season is a regular fixture on our calendars in Virginia. The season typically runs from June to November with heightened activity August to October. In October 2018, Hurricane Michael raised to the Dan River to flood stage, causing damaged roads and buildings, and even … More Be Prepared: Dealing with Disaster Part 1 of 2

Rebuild! VA Grant: Eligibility Criteria Expanded

During the month of July, the Rebuild! VA grant program was created to assist small businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout the state who have faced unprecedented economic distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Excitingly, the program has expanded its eligibility criteria to allow more small businesses to apply and receive needed assistance! “Small businesses and … More Rebuild! VA Grant: Eligibility Criteria Expanded

2020 Merit Awards: Outstanding Business – Lineage

Based in Harrisonburg, Lineage is an inspiring store focused on the beauty of handmade craft. Lineage was recognized this year as one of Virginia’s outstanding businesses during Virginia Main Street’s Downtown Intersection conference. Head there for owner Paul Hansbarger’s signature leather and waxed cotton canvas designs and marvel in the details of the totes, weekenders, … More 2020 Merit Awards: Outstanding Business – Lineage

Change for Change: Caring Meters in Lynchburg, VA

In Downtown Lynchburg, there are dozens of nonprofit organizations that require support to successfully complete their mission-driven work. Although conventional fundraising efforts have been hampered by the novel coronavirus pandemic, the public’s generosity remains vital, and that is why a new program seeks to encourage people to spare some change for change! Lynchburg residents, Peggy … More Change for Change: Caring Meters in Lynchburg, VA

2020 Volunteer of the Year: Holly Redding

During the 2020 Downtown Intersections Virtual Conference, Holly Redding (pictured left) received a Virginia Main Street (VMS) Merit Award, earning the meaningful “Volunteer of the Year” recognition. Redding was nominated by The Old Town Advancement Commission (OTAC) in Winchester, where she serves as chairperson of OTAC’s board of directors. Redding’s nomination was based on her … More 2020 Volunteer of the Year: Holly Redding

Four New Virginia Main Street Communities Announced!

Excitingly, the towns of Cape Charles, Onancock, Tappahannock and Tazewell will be joining the Virginia Main Street (VMS) program / family! On September 16th, Governor Northam announced that these localities will become designated VMS communities, eager to revitalize their commercial districts and spur new growth! Since 1985, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development … More Four New Virginia Main Street Communities Announced!