Building A Better Downtown BV

Editorial

We look forward to seeing the return of the timber framers in downtown Buena Vista in a couple of weeks. About 60 or 70 of them are going to be here Oct. 3-6 to construct a timber frame stage cover for the Buena Vista Town Square project. They will gather at Grigg and Cindy Mullin’s home in Rockbridge County to build the timber frame project. Then, on Sunday, Oct. 6, the stage cover will be raised at Town Square at the corner of 21st Street and Magnolia Avenue.

In April, 140-150 timber framers descended on our community to construct a farmers market pavilion for Town Square. The unique project was handcrafted to the community’s specifications and is to be the centerpiece for downtown gatherings. Town Square itself, which is to be named something else in the near future, is expected to be the centerpiece of a revitalized downtown.

Much is going on in downtown Buena Vista. The finishing touches are being made on facade improvements of storefronts. Streetscape enhancements along the 21st Street corridor are well underway. The former Courtesy Ford dealership building is being transformed into the Mountain Gateway Community College Workforce Training Center. The first phase of construction is about to begin for the Virginia Innovation Accelerator in the old Mundet Hermetite factory building.

There is a sense of rejuvenation among the businesses in downtown. Asunder Coffee Roasters is expanding. The BeeVe Sweet Souvenirs ice cream shop and Straws Drinks & Eats are establishing themselves as popular places to eat, drink and socialize. Coiner Country Store has added deli sandwiches to its culinary offerings. A new business opening soon is Bub-Bub’s Subs in the former Flowers & Things at Sycamore Lane.

Main Street Buena Vista, under the capable leadership of Brooke Dalton, is contributing to the efforts to revitalize downtown. Among other things, Dalton is overseeing the upcoming Mountain Day celebration and is organzing a contest to recognize the city’s renowned Three Ole Grouches.

Looking ahead to the return of the timber framers, Kristina Ramsey, Buena Vista’s director of economic development, said, “We invite everyone to be part of this exciting moment in Buena Vista’s history. Whether through a donation, volunteering your skills, or simply coming out to cheer on the team, there’s a place for everyone in this project. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the progress we’re making together.”

She said there are many ways to help: Contribute to the Flush Fund: Help ensure the Town Square has modern and comfortable bathroom facilities. Donations of $50 or more will earn you a distinctive miniature toilet trophy, engraved with “Flush Fund Sponsor.”

Paint a peg and be a part of history: For just $5, paint one of the 40 pegs that will be incorporated into the timber frame structure. Visit The BeeVe or contact the economic development office to secure your peg.

Donate your way: Become a Downtown Dreamer with a donation of $5,000 for special recognition, or contribute any amount as a Community Trailblazer – every dollar helps bring the city’s vision to life.

Contribute labor or materials: Help with essential materials for the project, including roofing, bathroom fixtures, and other items,or if you’re a contractor or tradesperson, offer your skills for tasks like installing the stage cover roof or providing plumbing and electrical work.

Help fuel volunteers: As the city comes together to build the Town Square, help is needed to keep volunteers energized and ready to work. You can make a difference by donating meals or snacks.

Ramsey said she is also seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help serve meals, assist with meal pickups and drop-offs, take photos to capture the moments, and assist with various tasks throughout the event. “Your involvement will help ensure the smooth operation of the build and create lasting memories of this important community effort.”

For more information on how to contribute or get involved, visit www. buenavistava.org/townsquare. Or, contact the Buena Vista economic development office at (540) 261-8608.

Downtown Buena Vista is a happening place. We encourage everyone to get involved and keep the momentum going.