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DYNAM I SM

creation of pedestrian-oriented corridors that connect commercial and civic spaces. Adaptation Existing buildings could also be repurposed for new uses as demand grows and surrounding uses change. This would preserve some of the historic and architecturally important buildings that represent Downtown Blacksburg’s character today. Depending on the rehab potential, these buildings could be reused as office space, restaurants, or bed and breakfasts.

Dynamism is about economic activity, and the ability of a place to adapt and evolve over time. Great places welcome entrepreneurs, innovation, start-ups, business, and commerce.

Future Prosperity

In order to strengthen its economy, Blacksburg will have to continue to adapt to new and different types of business. Downtown can and should be the center of that adaptation. It has become a home for start-ups and entrepreneurs due in large part to its proximity to Virginia Tech. The university is also investing in a new Creativity and Innovation District adjacent to Downtown near Otey Street that the town can incorporate into its redevelopment and marketing. Creating a dynamic Downtown is key for Blacksburg to leverage these opportunities in a way that builds a more resilient local economy and enhances quality of life. The built environment impacts a town’s dynamism. The growth of new office uses for start-ups and entrepreneurs, hospitality uses, and innovation economy uses will require a built environment that accommodates them. This may require different building types, architecture, or densities. The transition of the existing to the new built environment should be seamless to improve connections and retain the existing atmosphere of Downtown. Physical improvements to the built environment could include streetscape elements like plantings and signage, the continuation of building design features like awnings or materials, or the

Coworking space

EXISTING EMPLOYMENT DISTRICT

48 Chapter 2 - Analysis: A Framework for Downtown Blacksburg

CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION DISTRICT

Existing and planned employment sites