Development News for Radford, Virginia

Public Hearing Scheduled to Vacate Public Right-of-Way at West Main and Rock Road

The council agreed to schedule a public hearing for June 8th, 2026, to consider the vacation of a public right-of-way at the corner of West Main and Rock Road, requested by Gary Duncan of GAD Management. This action requires a public hearing as per Virginia Code 15.2-20006. The property in question is a small parcel adjacent to the former Moog Components Group site. Information regarding the proposal will be made available to the council prior to the hearing.

Radford Declares June as Pride Month and May as Military Appreciation Month

The council proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall uprising and advance LGBTQ equality. The proclamation recognized the modern LGBTQ rights movement, the hardships faced by the community, and the impact of LGBTQ individuals. It celebrated LGBTQ community members as part of Radford's diverse tapestry and acknowledged the work of advocates and allies promoting tolerance and inclusion. The city is working towards becoming an inclusive community where all citizens are respected. The council also proclaimed May 2026 as Military Appreciation Month, encouraging citizens to honor current and former members of the US Armed Forces and their families. It acknowledged the sacrifices made in defense of freedoms, highlighting Virginia's significant military presence, its economic impact, and the number of veterans and active-duty service members in the state. The month of May was chosen due to significant observances like VE Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day.

City Approves Funding for Animal Care, Police Equipment, and Juvenile Crime Prevention Programs

The city council approved three appropriation ordinances: 1815.34 for \$5,000 from the Best Friends Animal Society grant to enhance care for cats, including vaccinations, testing, and sterilization of strays/ferals; 1815.35 for \$3,140 from the Justice Assistance Grant (local law enforcement block grant) to purchase three Marlin bicycles for the Radford City PD's bicycle team; and 1815.36 for \$7,000 for the juvenile community crime control program, funding community-based alternatives to secure detention, including home electronic monitoring, third millennium classrooms, and community service supervision.

Radford Plans Fourth of July, Memorial Day Additions, and 250th Anniversary Events

The city council discussed plans for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration, including a custom t-shirt design seeking 12 sponsor spots for logo placement to achieve self-sustainability. Six sponsors have been secured so far, with a \$500 sponsorship including logo placement on the shirt and digital marketing. The council also discussed adding Spanish-American War veterans to the Memorial Day memorial, requiring coordination with the VFW to match plaque ordering and determine funding. Additionally, the council is considering plans for the nation's 250th anniversary, with a commitment to ensuring flags are displayed and developing specific event ideas. The Gleno Mansion and Radford Heritage Foundation are involved in initiatives like 'Tribute to Heroes,' which will be dedicated on Memorial Day. The city also participated in events like the mobile museum at the high school and plans to leverage the Mary Draper Engles festival to discuss history. Residents are encouraged to deck out the city with flags and decorations.