BLACKSBURG (WSLS) - A research team at Virginia Tech is working to ensure Blacksburg uses its public space wisely.
Geography professor Robert Oliver has been studying the topic of public space for more than a decade, and he says creating places where residents can come together is key for a community to thrive.
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That is why he wants to see more public space development, like College Avenue in Blacksburg and Elmwood Park in Roanoke, that is designed first and foremost for the people.
Oliver says it is often a struggle for small towns to create quality public space, and that is why leaders have to make this a priority.