Governor Abigail Spanberger announced recommendations for 19 projects totaling $8.4 million through the 2026 Virginia Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) program, supporting infrastructure, workforce development and economic revitalization across Southwest Virginia.
The recommended projects will collectively serve 1,240 businesses, provide improved infrastructure to 11,500 households, and create 58 jobs across the region. The ARC program, established in 1965, aims to help Appalachian communities achieve economic parity with national economic growth rates.
Projects include the $1 million NRV Passenger Rail Station in Christiansburg, the $700,000 Rex Theater revitalization in Galax, a shared-use kitchen and agribusiness incubator, water and sewer improvements, and workforce training initiatives. Other funded efforts support downtown revitalization planning, artisan market expansion, and business development services.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery said the projects "reflect a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the economic backbone of Southwest Virginia" while preparing industrial sites for private investment.