The Lincoln, the Barter, a digital PBS station and an Austinville business park are among those receiving funding in the latest round of money doled out by the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission.
The Tobacco Commission met Jan. 5 in Richmond to approve projects aimed at generating economic growth in Southern and Southwest Virginia, approving 29 total funding requests.
The commission also welcomed new Tobacco Commission Acting Executive Director James E. Campos.
“I am excited to get started here at the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission,” Campos said. “The Commission does important work and after attending the meetings over the last few days it is clear that it is a critical asset for the communities of Southern and Southwest Virginia as they seek to grow and diversify their economies. I am proud to be a part of this team and look forward to getting to work to help ensure a bright future for our rural communities.”
In addition to other fundees, the commission approved a $10 million Tobacco Commission Opportunity Fund grant for a confidential project.
The Abingdon Feeder Cattle Association received $299,880 to improve genetics, health and management, as part of a cost share for producers across the region. The goal is to assist with genetic improvement to herds and to help buy equipment and facility needs for effective herd management.
A $96,000 grant will help Virginia Produce Company in Carroll County with costs associated with buying vacuum coolers and related equipment. Funds will reimburse 25 percent of the total cost for the more efficient coolers.
Blue Ridge Crossroads Economic Development Authority received $188,750 for Wildwood Commerce Park Site 1. Site 1 is the final available property at Wildwood, which is 13 miles from the Interstate 81 and 77 interchange. The funds will support half of the due diligence and design costs. An application for construction has already been submitted to VEDP’s Virginia Business Ready Site Program, so completion of due diligence is critical to the competitiveness of that application.
A Washington County lot in Oak Park will receive up to $500,000 to pay for half the cost to design and build a 1,300-foot rail spur for Lot 8. The lack of rail access at the lot has been noted by several prospects. The lot in the Glade Spring area is 70 acres and rated as Tier 2 under VEDP’s Ready Sites Program.
The Barter Theater received $105,000 for a regional marketing campaign.
A $400,000 grant will support the establishment of PBS Appalachia Virginia, which plans to serve the 14 counties and three cities in the region. The station plans to launch on June 10, 2023.
Funding for Song of the Mountain, to the tune of $120,000, will be used to help with booking fees for popular bands coming to the monthly show at the Lincoln Theatre. The money will be used for 50 percent of each booking fee, with the remainder provided to Song of the Mountains through sponsorships. Song of the Mountains is not alone in its quest to reestablish itself as a viable draw for regional tourists. Many potential patrons remain cautious of the risks associated with attending events while others may have moved on to new options. Helping SOTM with booking fees will provide the opportunity for the Theater to entice visitors back to Marion.
