Collaboration to Transform Southeast Roanoke Property into Riverdale District Announced
The City of Roanoke, the Roanoke Economic Development Authority, and local developer, Ed Walker, are collaborating and co-investing on a transformation of the former American Viscose Plant in Southeast Roanoke. Over the next several years, the collaboration will preserve elements of its industrial heritage while gradually transforming parts of the former industrial site into Riverdale, a 75+ acre mixed-use district featuring industrial spaces, residences, commercial uses, artist studios, maker spaces and manufacturing. Riverdale will be fully integrated into adjacent natural and recreation areas including the Greenway, Roanoke River, and Mill Mountain.
The agreement that establishes the collaborative investment was approved at the January 17 City Council meeting and includes a $10 million forgivable performance loan facilitating property acquisition, addressing immediate environmental and master-planning needs, and removal of debris currently on the site. This agreement requires and catalyzes at least $50 million of private investment and development. An economic study prepared by Chmura Economics indicates that the first phase alone could generate more than $300 million in economic impact, supporting 2,000 jobs in the process.
Vote for the Roanoke River for Best Urban Kayaking Spot 2023
The Roanoke River is one of the nominees for Best Urban Kayaking Spot for 2023 for the USA TODAY 10Best contest! Voting is open, and you can vote daily through February 6.
We are in the chase for the top spot, but we need your help. Make sure you click the link and vote for the Roanoke River today.
Let's help the Roanoke River win this award for the 2nd consecutive year!
Vote: http://bit.ly/3pb4KTZ
Swift Water Rescue Training
Check out what some of our swift water team has been up to lately! These B-shifters spent their off-duty day on the James River at Balcony Falls honing their skills in paddle craft operations. 
Thanks Capt. Robert Reid, Lt. Nick Sosik, Lt. Jonathan Metro, FF Daniel Driver, FF Kalin Conn, and FF Thomas Schacter for getting out there and getting it done, despite the frigid temps! 
City of Roanoke Awarded Funds for the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program
Exciting news from Governor Glenn Youngkin's office! 
It was announced on January 16, that the City of Roanoke was awarded funds for the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program. These funds will further develop Tract 8 located in the Roanoke Centre for Industry and Technology (RCIT).
Learn more about this announcement and Virginia Business Ready Sites Program at https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2023/january/name-989977-en.html?fbclid=IwAR08F06vK1t_kg3juG5It4DcJnu0vY0vwgJpyBx25hS1b5wMJpNx8uf3leg