Governor Youngkin announces two Southwest Virginia projects selected for AMLER program support

Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin and Congressman Morgan Griffith have unveiled two new projects selected for support under the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program. This federally backed initiative focuses on transforming once-abandoned coal mine properties into thriving spaces for local businesses, recreation, and community growth.

Turning Abandoned Lands Into Community Assets

“Virginia works best when every region has the opportunity to grow and succeed,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Southwest Virginia has incredible assets—its people, its natural beauty, and its work ethic. AMLER funding helps transform those strengths into new opportunities by turning abandoned lands into thriving spaces for businesses, families, and visitors.”

The newly announced projects include:

• Food Incubator at Southern Gap in Buchanan County
  With $1.12 million in funding, this project will create a modern food incubator by constructing a one-story metal building with concrete floors and fully conditioned interior space. The building will include restrooms, a shared dining area, and two kitchen rental units designed for entrepreneurs. Additionally, the site will provide up to five dedicated food truck slips, each equipped with water, sewer, and electricity connections.

• Camp Bethel Expansion Project in Wise County
  This larger initiative, supported with $3.05 million, involves expanding Camp Bethel to include new recreational and infrastructure upgrades. Plans call for geotechnical studies, road and building improvements, and land preparation for a variety of amenities. These include an engineered rock-climbing wall, adaptive snow tubing features, ziplines, a playground, hiking trails, and expanded parking to accommodate visitors.

Leaders Applaud Long-Term Impact

“AMLER stands out as a model of what is possible when federal resources are directed effectively,” said Congressman Morgan Griffith. “These latest projects show exactly why this investment continues to pay dividends for our region—they’re creating spaces for small businesses to grow, drawing tourists in, and giving families more reasons to stay and build their lives here.”

Virginia’s Department of Energy (Virginia Energy) oversees the AMLER program in the state, with funding provided directly by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Since 2017, the Commonwealth has used the program to recommend 50 redevelopment projects, all located in coalfield counties where mining took place prior to 1977. The program operates under the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement and currently benefits six states and three tribes.

“Economic development requires vision and partnership,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “AMLER allows us to take land that was once an economic liability and transform it into an asset that attracts investment, support entrepreneurs, and create the kind of amenities that make communities competitive in today’s economy.”

“What sets AMLER apart is its flexibility to meet communities where they are,” added Virginia Energy Director Glenn Davis. “Whether it’s a food incubator, a solar farm, a commercial center, or recreational facilities, this program adapts to local needs and turns former mine sites into whatever serves that community best.”

Building a Brighter Future for Southwest Virginia

State lawmakers and local leaders voiced their support for the two projects and the broader vision behind the AMLER initiative.

“Strong infrastructure makes strong communities,” said Senator Todd Pillion. “These investments in parks, trails, and business facilities improve daily life for families while positioning Southwest Virginia to attract the employers and visitors who will drive our next chapter of growth.”

“AMLER delivers what our communities actually need—jobs, modern facilities, and economic opportunity,” said Delegate Terry Kilgore. “These federal dollars are working for Southwest Virginia families, helping us compete for the businesses and workforce that will drive long-term prosperity.”

“Southwest Virginia’s story has always been about resilience,” added Delegate Will Morefield. “When we invest in transforming these lands, we’re investing in our people and proving that our best days aren’t behind us—they’re ahead of us.”