Leslie Harwood critiques Blacksburg's proposed 8 story luxury student housing development

The Blacksburg Town Council meeting on February 25, 2025, featured significant public concern regarding a proposed eight-story development at 801 North Main Street. Resident Leslie Harwood voiced strong opposition to the project, highlighting its potential negative impact on the community and its alignment with previous town resolutions.

Harwood emphasized that the proposed development, primarily aimed at high-income Virginia Tech students, contradicts the town's 2019 resolution which called for student housing in commercial districts to include substantial commercial and office space. She argued that the current proposal fails to address the pressing need for affordable housing in Blacksburg, instead offering luxury apartments priced at $1,500 per bedroom. Harwood described this approach as a "cash grab," noting that while the developer plans to contribute $1.1 million to the town, the potential annual rental income could exceed $13 million, raising questions about the fairness of the deal for the community.

Additionally, Harwood pointed out that the development would reduce available commercial space, which could lead to job losses and diminish the town's character. She urged the council to reconsider the project's implications for local businesses and the overall economy. Harwood also raised concerns about the future of Virginia Tech's enrollment, suggesting that a decline could leave the town with an oversized and underutilized complex.

The discussion reflects ongoing tensions in Blacksburg regarding development, housing affordability, and community character, as residents seek to balance growth with the needs of the local population. The council's decision on the proposed development will be closely watched by community members as they navigate these critical issues.