Roanoke County seeing positive response to Explore Park changes

ROANOKE COUNTY (WSLS) - Roanoke County is seeing an increase in the number of people visiting and the amount of money being spent at Explore Park in it's first summer at the helm of operations.

Roanoke County took over ownership of the property last year. Since then, it's worked to improve the park by adding new trails and signs, renovating on-site buildings, and selling local products at the gift shop.

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Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism for Roanoke County, Doug Blount, says those changes along with the county making the park a focus of it's summer branding has led to higher attendance.

The Visitor Center saw approximately 6,700 visitors during the months of May and June compared to 3,849 for the same period last year.

It's also seen an increase in money being spent at the park. Profits have almost doubled as sales are up by close to $8,000.

Blount is hopeful numbers will continue to increase in the coming years.

Two buildings that have been renovated will soon open. Those will be available for rent for events and weddings. So far, the county has already booked a handful of events.

It's also received a lot inquiries about hosting outdoor events such as races.

Blount says all of the interest this season has exceeded expectations.

He is hopeful that Explore Park will eventually become a big destination for travelers which will result in a positive impact for local businesses.