In a draft comprehensive plan for 2026 to 2030, the city of Staunton noted that creating a water source should be considered to support future business and residential growth.
An economic development presentation at a July 2023 Staunton City Council meeting revealed the need for a water source in reference to new businesses in the city, including Cook Out and other new restaurants on Richmond Avenue, Firestone, Micah’s Coffee and a Planet Fitness on Greenville Avenue. Projected housing options were also considered, such as the Villages at Staunton behind Blackburn Inn and renovation of Staunton Steam Laundry to apartment space. An update on Staunton Crossing was provided to city council at an October 2024 meeting.
The city experienced an increase of 41.6 percent in requests for building permits in just one year from June 2022 to June 2023. New residential building requests increased by 66.7 percent in the same year.
“Reliable infrastructure is a key factor in attracting businesses and supporting long-term economic growth. The investment in water improvements at Staunton Crossing, including the elevated storage tank, ensures that future businesses will have the necessary utilities to operate efficiently. Thanks to the support of the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program, this project moves Staunton another step forward in being a competitive location for business expansion and job creation,” said Director of Economic Development Amanda DiMeo.
The city was awarded a $9 million grant from the 2024 Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s (VEDP) Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) to aid in paying for the majority of construction costs for water improvements currently underway at Staunton Crossing. The water improvements include an elevated 1-million-gallon storage tank, 2,400-linear-feet tank access road and water supply line, and approximately 6,100 LF of additional water lines and related distribution appurtenances.
Staunton Crossing, on the former site of Western State Hospital, is on 300 acres of land purchased by the Economic Development Authority in 2009. The city has since marketed and prepped the site for future employers and manufacturers.
So far, Staunton Crossing boasts a Fairfield Inn, Jersey Mike’s sandwich shop, Chipotle Mexican Grill, AT&T retailer, a new Wendy’s, a new Waffle Shop and a new 7-11 convenience store/gas station.
The strategically placed 1MG elevated tank at the top of the hill at Staunton Crossing is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
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Staunton, Rockingham County development projects get millions in state grants
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Rebecca Barnabi
