FINCASTLE, Va. – Botetourt County leaders are open to ideas on how to make the county a more desirable place to eat, play and live. That's why they're targeting specific areas for future development.
"One is called the Gateway Crossing area which is at Exit 150 at the roundabout there. At the intersection of 220, 81, and 11. And then also the Daleville Town Center a little farther north," Cody Sexton said.
County officials are hoping for a commercial and retail boost, especially since the roundabout opened in September. But more construction still underway won't be complete until the end of the year.
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"Already there are a large number of existing businesses in that area. The Virginia Department of Transportation is winding down. It has provided access to new land and new opportunities," Sexton said.
The county is working with a company in Charlottesville to create a design plan to best fit their needs. At the listening meeting, many residents were able to write and share their thoughts on bulletin boards about what kind of developments they want to see.
General comments included fewer gas stations while adding bike trails and greenways. Hajal Patel has several ideas to get the county to grow and flourish in the future.
"The upscale restaurants and more places to hang out. Go bowling or go golfing or just have concerts and festivals," Patel said.
Moving to the county 12 years ago, she has seen some growth but is patiently waiting for more.
"It's slowly growing. Of course the Daleville Town Center has been going on for about 10 years now. I'm excited to see that is finally being pushed to developing and helping out the community," said Patel.
The ideas collected from the listening session will be presented as recommendations to the Board of Supervisors and the planning and zoning department early next year.