As a participant in the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) 2024 Cohort, Zachary Whitlow, Community Vitality Program Administrator for the Department of Housing and Community Development, provides an overview of the second VRLI session of the year, which was held in Abingdon, Bristol and Marion on July 17-19, 2024. The Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) second session … More Virginia Rural Leadership Institute Brings Cohort Members to Southwest Virginia

Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. (CRI) proudly unveiled five new murals in downtown through their Art in Public Spaces Power Box Mural Program. Featuring the unique work of local artists, the murals beautify utility boxes and create a more inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors. The murals reflect the regions natural beauty and local heritage – depicting … More Culpeper Unveils Power Box Murals

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) has a new grant opportunity that is open to localities, 501(c)(3) non-profits, and federally or state recognized tribes. The Virginia 250 Preservation Fund is meant to help celebrate and prepare for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and has $20 million worth of grant funding available. Projects … More Grant Opportunity: Virginia 250 Preservation Fund

Discover the Who / What / When / Where / Why of a Grant Opportunity! U.S. Department of Transportation: Federal Transit Administration | Enhancing Mobility Innovation The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is excited to present a monthly grants opportunity brief that could be a game-changer for your growing Communities! This brief … More Department of Transportation Grant Opportunity: Enhancing Mobility Innovation

During the month of July, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published eight blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap: 2024 VMS Merit Awards Appreciative Inquiry in Urbanna’s Main Street Startup Transforming Lynchburg’s Fifth Street District Stay tuned for lots more great content in August!

Lynchburg‘s Fifth Street District was once the center of commerce for the city’s African-American community. In 2012, it formally became a National Historic District, undoubtedly worthy of preservation. Contributing to that designation, the building at 409 Fifth Street was originally constructed in 1936 to house the Moser Furniture Company and featured a charming colonial-style building … More The Transformation of 409 Fifth Street in Downtown Lynchburg

The Virginia Main Street (VMS) program’s Promotional Innovation merit award highlights an innovative and successful district-wide special event or initiative designed to build a positive community identity and spirit or a district-wide marketing campaign designed to attract customers and increase revenue for local businesses. The 2024 award went to the City of Roanoke’s Department of Economic Development … More 2024 Promotional Innovation Merit Award Winner – Roanoke!

The Virginia Main Street (VMS) program’s Power of Preservation merit award highlights a preserved historic landmark and the actions taken by a community to restore this property through stewardship and innovation, preserving the historic character of their downtown. The 2024 award went to St. Paul Tomorrow (SPT) for their commitment to preserving the Lyric Theater! The Lyric … More 2024 Power of Preservation Merit Award Winner – St. Paul Tomorrow