CHP Announces First Home Sold in New River Home Trust

Montgomery County, VACommunity Housing Partners (CHP) recently reported on a remarkable moment in the New River Valley, the first home sold under the New River Home Trust.

The New River Home Trust was created in 2023 as a partnership between CHP, Montgomery County, and the Town of Blacksburg to increase access to affordable housing. The New River Home Trust offers a unique approach to homeownership by dividing the ownership into two distinct deeds. One deed is for the land and another for the home, making homeownership a reality by removing the cost of the land.

The land trust model is a forward-thinking movement that will help make home ownership in Montgomery County more accessible and affordable for families.

Read the press release here.

The New River Valley has a variety of housing options. Whether you’re based in one of the NRV’s walkable downtowns or along a country road, if you’re looking for a starter home or high-end golf course living, the NRV is the natural fit for your home. Learn more about housing in the NRV here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Wins Multiple Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards

New River Valley, VA – Tourism professionals from across Southwest Virginia recently gathered in Wytheville for the fourth annual Celebrate Tourism Summit. The tourism directors in Virginia’s New River Valley won several awards across a variety of categories. The awards are presented by Friends of Southwest Virginia “to celebrate the outstanding work within the tourism industry in Southwest Virginia.” Friends of Southwest Virginia is a non-profit that helps artists, craftspeople, localities, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs mobilize and succeed.

Thirty-eight Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards were given in categories that ranged from tourism leadership, tourism marketing, special events, to visitor services.

The New River Valley won the following awards:

Congratulations to all those who won this year! And to all those who continue to showcase the beauty of Virginia’s New River Valley through their tourism efforts.

View the full list of winners here.

In the NRV, the mountains call you and the New River floods you with peace. The scenery inspires, the people connect, and the work feels easy. Discover why the region is a natural fit here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Draper Featured in Southern Living Magazine

Pulaski County, VASouthern Living magazine recently featured a story on Draper and how this “tiny hamlet” in Pulaski County is worth a visit.

Erin Gifford wrote this about Draper:

“This former rail town with a population of less than 700 is an unexpected delight that surprises with a formal tearoom, a vista-laden vineyard, and easy access to the New River Trail, the longest rail-trail in Virginia.”

The article goes on to give suggestions on what to do, where to eat, and where to stay while in Draper.

Historic Draper is one of the unique communities that make up Pulaski County. Discover more about Pulaski County here.

The eclectic mix of small towns in Virginia’s New River Valley is one of the reasons our region is so special. Not only is it a great place to visit, but it’s also a great place to live and work. Learn more about living in the NRV here.

Read the full Southern Living article here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Christiansburg Brewery Featured in Valley Business FRONT

Montgomery County, VA – The Christiansburg craft brewery Iron Tree Brewing Company was recently feature in the June 2023 issues of Valley Business FRONT magazine. In the article “Craft Beer in Christiansburg” the three co-owners talked about the journey to opening a brewery and their desire to drive business to downtown Christiansburg.

Being the only brewery currently in Christiansburg, the owners hope to tap into the locals who no longer wish to make the long drive to other breweries. By creating events like trivia nights and yoga Saturdays, they believe they can draw customers to the downtown area.

Owners of Iron Tree Seth Locklear, Jansen Lee, and Stephen Peter have big plans for the brewery and want to expand to be able to “move more product and let others know” they are there.

Iron Tree Brewing joins a culture of craft beer in Virginia’s New River Valley, and the NRV is excited to have them.

To learn more about what is on tap in the New River Valley click here.

photo by Iron Tree Brewing Company
###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Farmers Market Trail

If local vegetables, handpicked flowers, and fresh baked goods are what define your summer, then it’s time to hit the NRV Farmers Market Trail. Each market brings its own finds and, in some cases, music. Summer is a time for meandering through the local artisan-crafted gifts and food. It’s the taste of freshness and the local community that make this region’s farmers markets such a treasure. Explore the exciting flavors that abound in the New River Valley by grabbing your bag and joining us as we delve into the local NRV Farmers Market Trail.

       

1. City of Radford’s Farmers Market

 

Our first stop on this Farmers Market journey is the City of Radford, where The Radford Farmers Market is a staple in Radford every Saturday during the months of April through October from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. rain or shine. Visit them weekly for an ever-changing supply of fresh and local produce, honey, eggs, meats, crafts, pastries, baked goods, flowers, and nursery starts.

       

2. Floyd County’s Farmers Market

 

Traversing through the countryside, our next visit is to The Floyd Farmers Market. It is open every Saturday from May through December from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm under the community pavilion in the center of downtown Floyd. A limited number of vendors are available on Thursdays from 4:00pm-7:00pm. They are proud to provide the community with locally grown, fresh produce and artisanal products and believe that shopping locally is the best way to get fresh, high-quality, and unique products.

     

3. Giles County’s Farmers Markets

 

Giles County flows through several towns and offers up a great variety of local produce at their Narrows Farmers Market and the Pearisburg Community Market. With a chance to chat with local farmers and artisans, you won’t want to miss stopping into Giles County.

The Narrows Farmers Market runs Saturdays 9am – 1pm at 135 Monroe Street and offers tables already onsite to accommodate several vendors and a sheltered pavilion for rain coverage.

The Pearisburg Community Market is located on the front lawn of the Community Center on Wenonah Avenue and is open the third Friday of the month from 5:00pm-7:30pm.

       

4. Montgomery County’s Farmers Markets

 

Continuing our travels through the New River Valley’s Farmers Markets, we find ourselves in Montgomery County with a few options for perusing the local offerings.

The Blacksburg Farmer’s Market is located in the center of Blacksburg and has a variety of hours to choose from:

  • Jan-Mar: Sat. 10am – 2pm
  • Apr-Oct: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 8am – 2pm
  • Nov.-Dec: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 9am – 2pm

The Christiansburg Farmers Market is located at 1600 North Franklin Street on Thursdays May – October from 3pm – 7pm. Each day differs, so you don’t want to miss out on what is available. You never know what you are going to find!

I don’t know about you, but I have found some lovely things at each market. My bags are full of some fabulous gifts and local veggies. I even heard some great music along the way! But there is still room for just a little more of what the NRV has to offer.

     

5. Pulaski County’s Farmers Market

 

Pulaski’s Marketplace has just what I need to finish out this Farmers Market Trail and I have just the spot for it in my bags. The Historic Train station offers a great backdrop for the music as I make my final purchases from the NRV. Join Pulaski at The Marketplace Tuesday’s 4-7pm in the summers where local vendors and artisans show of their knowledge and products. With activities for kids, there is fun for the whole family!

           

Thank you for joining us on the NRV Farmers Market Trail. I hope you have enjoyed the vendors, the locations, music, and all the treats you picked up along the way!

Click here to find out why the NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business.

###
Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Efforts to Retain NRV Talent Featured in Virginia Business Magazine

New River Valley, VA Virginia’s New River Valley was recently featured in a Virginia Business article on talent retention in the area.

The article spoke about how both the New River Valley and the Roanoke region are working to retain students and tap into remote workers looking for a better quality of life that the larger metropolitan areas don’t offer.

John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement was quoted as saying that “students are the largest export” of the region because of universities like Radford and Virginia Tech.

Students don’t typically stay in the region because they don’t know all that it has to offer. Programs like Onward NRV’s NRV Experience were created to educate and show off the New River Valley to summer interns working in the area. The program features five community excursions and professional development trainings throughout the summer. Onward NRV hosts the program in collaboration with local tourism directors and economic developers in the region. The livability of the region is a huge asset for talent recruitment and retention with access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and a cost of living that makes life easier. The NRV has a lot to offer to those who choose to live and work in the area.

Read the article here.

Learn more about the NRV Experience here.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for anyone looking for a place to call home and do business here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Virginia Claims Top Honors in Multiple Categories

New River Valley, VA – Home of more presidents than any other state, Virginia has a long and rich history that attracts quality jobs and world-class education. Virginia has a diverse blend of small towns, city attractions and the ambiance of the country. With such a historical tradition of excellence and beauty, Virginia’s list of accolades can only continue to grow.

Here are some of the Commonwealth’s recent rankings:

The New River Valley is a ‘natural fit’ for anyone looking to live in a region of the Commonwealth of Virginia. With access to outdoor recreation, fine arts, high quality employment, and unmatched educational opportunities, it’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley feels like home.

Find out more about the quality of life and the abundant business opportunities in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

See rankings specific to the New River Valley here.

 

photo by Kelly
 

###
Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Counties Receive Outdoor Recreation Grants

New River Valley, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin recently announced that two counties in Virginia’s New River Valley will each receive up to $20,000 through the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) DRIVE Outdoor grant program. The DRIVE Outdoor grant program targets “outdoor product development and entrepreneurial expansion throughout the Commonweath.”

Both Floyd County and Giles County were selected for the grant. The counties will use the funds to build upon the quality of life experienced by the residents of the NRV.

Governor Glen Youngkin said, “Outdoor recreation is an important part of Virginia’s economy and key to furthering the Commonwealth’s position as a top destination on the East Coast. The projects developed from the DRIVE Outdoor program will spur job creation, private investment, and endless opportunities for outdoor-focused partnerships.”

Read the full press release, including information on the other 8 communities selected for the grant, here.

The outdoors in the NRV provides a constant source of entertainment due to its natural resources, activities, and breathtaking views. Major outdoor attractions such as the New River, the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Claytor Lake State Park, and Pandapas Pond are woven into the fabric of each community in the NRV. Explore the trails and waterways of Virginia’s New River Valley here.


Photo by Tony Greatorex


###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Locations Featured in the 2023 Blue Ridge Outdoors Camping and Cabin Guide

New River Valley, VA– The New River Valley is the perfect place to pitch your tent for the summer while making lasting family memories overlooking the New River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. With camping season in full bloom, Blue Ridge Outdoors recently listed several locations in Pulaski County and Floyd County as some of the “best places to stay in the Blue Ridge backcountry” in their 2023 Camping and Cabin Guide.

Pulaski County’s Claytor Lake was selected as a great place for RVs since the “campsite offers the perfect home base to explore the 4,500-acre lake”. The New River Trail State Park was selected for its multi-day adventure and the ability to camp along the 57-mile park as you bike or hike.

Floyd County was chosen because of the variety of camping options. It “is home to the Little River, Buffalo Mountain, and 40 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it the perfect destination for outdoor adventure and camping.”

Explore the 2023 Blue Ridge Outdoors Camping and Cabin Guide here.

Step into the great outdoors and discover the beauty that awaits you in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford’s Luxurious Highlander Hotel Opens

Radford, VA – The highly anticipated Highlander Hotel is officially open. The luxury hotel was a collaboration between Radford University, The Radford University Foundation design firm Blur Workshop, Preston Hollow Capital, S.B. Ballard Construction Company, Aimbridge Hospitality and the City of Radford. The hotel boasts 124 luxurious rooms, including pet-friendly accommodations. It offers a variety of amenities and a full-service rooftop restaurant and bar.

The Highlander Hotel is a significant development for Radford and the surrounding New River Valley, as it is anticipated to interest visitors and boost the local economy. The hotel has created job opportunities in Radford and is expected to attract more businesses and investments to the area.

David Horton, Mayor of Radford, had this to say about the hotel:

“This new facility will be a great asset to the community, the NRV and Southwest Virginia as we continue to help Radford be a destination for people from across the Commonwealth and beyond.”

To see all the amenities The Highlander has to offer click here.

Explore the City of Radford, a community of Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

###

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.