Town moves forward with ambitious downtown development plan

During a recent government meeting, representatives from the landowners in the downtown Northwest district of Blacksburg addressed the town's implementation of the 2019 strategic plan, emphasizing the need for thoughtful development in the area. The district, which is strategically located near Virginia Tech and other key facilities, is earmarked for student housing and aims to enhance the environment surrounding St. Luke and Otfel's Hall.

The landowners highlighted the complexities involved in the development process, noting that the current ordinance fails to consider existing building heights and setbacks, which could pose challenges for future projects. They pointed out that while nearly 15 acres are designated for development, only about seven acres are under direct control, with just under six and a half acres being privately owned.

Steve Simones from Balser and Associates commended the town for its planning efforts, acknowledging the importance of prioritizing this area for development. He expressed optimism about the collaborative approach taken by landowners to address the challenges and create a feasible ordinance that benefits all stakeholders involved.

The discussions underscored the significance of balancing development with the unique characteristics of the district, as stakeholders work together to navigate the complexities of urban planning in a rapidly evolving environment.