BOONES MILL (WSLS 10) – A small town in Franklin county takes a big step toward revitalizing its economy.
Earlier this week, Governor Terry McAuliffe made a surprise announcement of over $1.9 million in grant funds for industrial revitalization, and the Town of Boones Mill was one of four localities selected.
Recommended Videos
Boones Mill Mayor Ben Flora says the grant will help revitalize the local economy. "We are ecstatic that Governor McAuliffe and the State of Virginia have chosen to recognize the importance of our endeavors toward the further revitalization of our little town. We, in Boones Mill, and in Franklin County, are immensely grateful for this catalytic assistance in all that we wish to become," Flora said.
Boones Mill received a $600,000 award to renovate a blighted factory building on the former North American Homes property. In 2007, the factory closed, removing the town's largest employer.
In 2011, with no private redevelopment on the horizon, the town took a loan to buy the entire 63-acre property. Several light industrial tenants brought the town a trickle of revenue, but the largest buildings fell into disrepair.
In 2015, the town adopted the first comprehensive plan in its history. The five year plan is dedicated to diversified redevelopment and the gradual growth of new small businesses consistent with local culture and the natural environment.
Town manager Matt Lawless says they already have big plans for the money. He says two tenants are confirmed for the lower level: $1.95 Cleaners will have a machine shop, and Titan Trains will build 1/8 scale locomotives and cars, echoing the town's rail heritage and the restoration of the historic train depot on the same property. He says Titan trains could be moved in as early as Fall 2016.
The renovated ground floor will be ready for new businesses early in 2017.