Roanoke, Virginia – The City of Roanoke is undertaking a significant development project, focusing on the Evans Spring area, one of the city’s largest remaining vacant and usable lands. This development, situated along the southern side of I-581 and near the Valley View Mall, is bordered by the Melrose-Rugby and Fairland neighborhoods in northwest Roanoke. The task of updating the plan for this project has been entrusted to a consulting firm, which faces the challenge of balancing the concerns of the local neighborhoods with the broader needs of the city.
In recent months, consultants have been exploring the possibilities for Evans Spring, engaging with private developers to propose a concept plan that addresses the diverse needs of all stakeholders. Bill Mechnick, President and Principal of the Charlottesville-based planning firm LPDA, is at the forefront of this effort. He emphasizes the importance of creating a plan that not only generates revenue but also satisfies the private development community, the neighborhood, and the city.
The current plan proposes a significant expansion of the area, including 300 single-family-owned housing units, 350 multifamily rental units, and up to 570,000 square feet of commercial space. The anticipated economic impact over 20 years is a substantial $2.9 billion. However, realizing this plan hinges on successful partnerships between the local development community, potential funders, and the city. Mechnick stresses the necessity of both sides coming to the negotiation table to form partnerships in various aspects of the project.
A key benefit of these partnerships would be cost-sharing, particularly important for infrastructure developments like the proposed extension of the I-581 and Valley View Boulevard interchange. The estimated cost of extending this four-lane interchange is around $55 million, a significant financial undertaking. Mechnick suggests the possibility of reducing costs by opting for a narrower bridge, potentially saving $10 million.
As the project moves forward, the next steps involve the Roanoke City Council receiving a draft report and final recommendations from the consultants. This stage is crucial, as it will provide a clearer vision of how the Evans Spring development can be successfully implemented, ensuring it meets the needs of all involved parties, from local residents to city planners and private developers. This project represents a pivotal moment for Roanoke, with the potential to significantly shape the city’s landscape and economic future.
