Long time Christiansburg residents remember when the First National Bank building on downtown's West Main Street was a bank. Others remember when it was a jewelry store. Most only know it as this old eyesore.
The wooden props have been there for over five years, with part of the facade torn up. At one point last year, there was even a rented johnny house sitting in the alcove. Sadly, this is just another one of downtown Christiansburg's most notable landmarks.
Apparently, town code or council has no control, only the property owner. No wonder county officials reportedly make sure economic development prospects stay on the 460 by-pass, taking visitors to the university area and avoiding such visual delights.
Town officials, however, really can't point any fingers as this view of West Main Street clearly shows. After awarding a very generous construction contract (both in dollars and the time allotted to complete the work), this is all HT Bowling has managed to get done in 18 months -- and it's still the best the street has looked for many years.
"On time and under budget" must not be standard operating procedure for someone. If you counted all the time where workmen were actually on the job, it represents much less than half of the 18 months, with work occurring during day time or business hours.
But who cares if residents are inconvenienced, commerce is impacted, or visitors are turned off? Citizens, who care about their town and neighborhoods.