Valerie Brown, the Executive Director of the Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association, believes that Williamson Road is the heart of Roanoke. She envisions restoring its vibrancy to its former glory before highways were constructed. Brown is actively working towards this goal and recently presented her “State of the Road” to the council, focusing on grant applications.
One of the grants they are pursuing is a vitality grant through the Virginia Main Street Grant program. This grant would fund a façade grant project to enhance the visual appeal of businesses on Williamson Road. They are also applying for a Thriving Cities Grant from local, state, and federal transportation departments to address road conditions, benefiting businesses along the road.
Brown wants to collaborate with businesses individually to understand how the association can support them better. Many businesses feel overlooked due to the attractions in downtown Roanoke and challenges in accessing Williamson Road. However, Brown is determined to change this perception and boost the road’s appeal to residents and visitors alike.
Next week, grant consultants for the Thriving Cities Grant will visit Williamson Road to assess road conditions and meet with business owners. This visit will help identify areas for improvement such as sidewalks, curbs, and driveways. Brown hopes this proactive approach will generate excitement about the road’s future and enhance economic growth in the area.
The walk-along with committee members on Monday marks a comprehensive process beginning after assessing road conditions and meeting with business owners. They will engage with neighborhood groups, libraries, other stakeholders before submitting a grant proposal in 18 months. The ultimate goal is to revitalize Williamson Road and contribute positively to Roanoke’s economic development.
The restoration of Williamson Road’s vibrancy has been an ongoing effort by Valerie Brown since she became Executive Director of Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association three years ago.
With funding from various grants like VMSG’s vitality grant for facade improvement project and Thriving Cities Grants from local state federal transportation departments for infrastructure improvements.
Brown has been instrumental in bringing together various stakeholders including business owners, community leaders government officials neighborhood groups libraries etc.,
Her efforts have been successful in generating interest among residents visitors alike who now see Williamson Rd as an important part of Roanoke’s cultural heritage.
In addition to seeking funding from grants she has also been working closely with individual business owners ensuring their needs are met while addressing concerns about accessibility challenges.
