Town of Blacksburg Adopted Operating Budget FY 2027

HOUSING AND COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS OFFICE COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS DIVISION NARRATIVE

The Community Connections Division of the Office of Housing and Community Connections supports the Town’s quality-of-life and economic vitality goals by serving as a liaison between residents, businesses, partner organizations, and Town government. The Division works closely with local and regional partners to support small businesses, strengthen the downtown, and coordinate community and economic development initiatives that improve communication and responsiveness to community needs. The office also manages town parking services.

FY 2026 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

 Served as an ongoing liaison supporting new and existing businesses in Blacksburg.  Maintained regular coordination with the Blacksburg Partnership, Downtown Blacksburg Inc., and Main Street Connect to support and strengthen local businesses.  Collaborated with the Blacksburg Partnership on initiatives with Retail Strategies to develop an action-oriented plan for downtown and retail growth in Blacksburg.  Implemented Restaurant Week and Holiday Week activities in coordination with Economic Development partners.  Developed a Small Business Guidebook as a comprehensive resource to assist entrepreneurs in starting a business in Blacksburg.  Implemented the Outdoor Dining Program with updated guidelines and agreements and assisted all participating businesses in transitioning to OpenGov.  Launched the Downtown Commercial Façade Grant Program, assisting 15 businesses with exterior building improvements.  Developed guidelines for a Downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) to be implemented in the following fiscal year.  Facilitated the design, redevelopment, and programming for the forthcoming 414 North Main Street Retail Incubator.  Continue collaboration with the Blacksburg Partnership, Downtown Blacksburg Inc., Main Street Connect, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, and Montgomery County Regional Tourism to grow and strengthen Blacksburg businesses.  Continue serving as a liaison between the Town and the small business community to address business needs and concerns.  Continue implementation of the Outdoor Dining Program and its guidelines.  Continue implementation of the Downtown Commercial Façade Grant Program.  Support Downtown Blacksburg Inc. in the design and launch of the 414 North Main Street Retail Incubator.  Implement a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) for Downtown Blacksburg.  Implement outdoor lighting, shade, and dining improvements along College, Main, and Jackson Streets.  Continue implementation of the Downtown Strategic Action Plan in alignment with established Town priorities.

FY 2027 OBJECTIVES

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