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Council approves sale of 147 Mill Ridge Road to Framatome, citing private investment and jobs
Summary
Council authorized the city manager to execute a contract to sell the Business Development Center at 147 Mill Ridge Road to Framatome, which offered $2 million and plans $6 million in renovations and expects to house 40–80 employees.
Lynchburg City Council voted to authorize the sale of the city‑owned property at 147 Mill Ridge Road, historically operated as the Business Development Center, after receiving one responsive proposal from Framatome Inc.
Marjette Upsher, director of economic development and tourism, outlined the request: the roughly five‑acre property includes 42,250 square feet of commercial building originally acquired with federal Economic Development Administration funds and opened in 1989 as a business incubator. Upsher said the building has drifted toward below‑market leasing and that the city issued a 30‑day request for proposals; staff recommended authorizing the city manager to execute a contract based on Framatome’s proposal.
Framatome’s representative, Dominique Grandovange, said the company—already a longstanding Lynchburg employer—offered $2,000,000 to purchase the property and plans roughly $6,000,000 in renovations to add office, light manufacturing, workforce training and R&D space to support local operations. The company estimates the redeveloped facility would accommodate about 40 to 80 employees, including permanent staff and visiting personnel.
Council discussion focused on tenant relocation, support for workforce and youth training partners (Job Corps, CVCC), and the economic benefit of retaining a major local employer. Councilors noted staff had worked with existing tenants on relocation options and that several businesses already secured new space.
Council approved the motion to authorize the sale; the vote was recorded as passing 6 with 1 absent.
What happens next: Staff will finalize a purchase and sale contract consistent with the council’s authorization and work with tenants to assist relocation as described by staff.
