Reviewing prior blog posts and comments made by readers, economic development specific to Christiansburg, and an absence of initiative directed by town leaders, has often been a topic of discussion.  Now business and residents are hearing the long inactive two-member "Central Business District" committee will lead this charge.   

Much business and commercial development in Christiansburg happened more by happy happenstance because of the town's several annexations through 1988 (as contrasted to "friendly" boundary line adjustments now required due to a state moratorium on annexation) and economic geography or site, rather than as a result of any planning or town-specific initiative.  

In today's world and economic conditions, is that type of approach enough to grow or even preserve Christiansburg having a vital and balanced tax base? 

One area most localities have focused on as a source for bringing in additional revenues is tourism.  In Radford, city funded tourism efforts are showing an upward trend in tandem with the Main Street Radford program.  Botetourt, Roanoke, Salem and Downtown Roanoke all have strong economic development partnerships and related tourism programs in place, too. 

Virginia Tourism Commission statistics show slowed growth, yet an industry which remains a vital component of state and local economies.  Giles County is currently following in Montgomery's footsteps, asking the General Assembly for permission to increase their lodging tax, which will then be fully dedicated to further strengthen their established tourism development initiative.  Floyd County has been rockin' and rollin' in attracting new investment for years now. 

In Blacksburg, the town's own efforts for tourism and economic development are seen through the Blacksburg Partnership, Downtown Merchants of Blacksburg, a strong chamber of commerce presence by local business as well as leadership roles and active partnering with the New River Valley Planning District Commission.

Check out these links embedded here, and see if you don't agree -- Christiansburg's economic and tourism development needs some strong medicine to get into the game and become competitive.