Development Continues in Grundy

Work could begin as early as May 1 on a two-story parking deck in Grundy that also will serve as the foundation for a big-box retail store designed to anchor the town’s 13-acre redevelopment site.

“It’s been long overdue, and everybody’s very anxious to see it start,” Town Manager Wade McGeorge said. “The town, they’re doing everything they can to try to make that happen, and we hope to see dirt flying by May 1.”

Years in the making as part of a $200 million federal flood-proofing project that also includes levees and a new state highway through the town, the redevelopment project is expected to generate 1,000 direct and 1,000 indirect jobs in Grundy, the seat of Buchanan County, according to the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority.

The authority, which derives its funding from coal and gas severance tax, on Thursday approved a $2 million grant for use in building the parking structure. The total cost of the parking deck – and of the downtown redevelopment project – has yet to be determined.

“This grant will help jump start construction of this parking facility that will be a key part of this important and unique project,” Jonathan Belcher, the authority’s executive director, said in a written statement. “The new road through downtown Grundy is now complete, and the town redevelopment site is ready for construction.”

McGeorge said negotiations are ongoing but could be completed soon with Walmart, the retailer officials hope to bring into Grundy’s new downtown.

The parking deck will hold between 400 and 500 cars, McGeorge said. In addition to the large retail store on top of the structure, there will be 16,000 feet of ground-level retail space. Across from the complex will be more retail buildings, either one large store or several smaller stores. Two or three restaurants will be built nearby, as well as additional retail space.

McGeorge said negotiations with other retailers will begin once negotiations on the main project are complete.

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