Botetourt County Communications recently updated residents about having much to celebrate this spring, with April bringing a wave of exciting developments, community events, and a major economic expansion.
From the county’s growing manufacturing sector to library milestones and public safety training, Botetourt continues to invest in its people, infrastructure, and quality of life.
At its March meeting, the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors welcomed Dr. Racquel Rogers as the new director of Social Services and Shaun Bennett as Emergency Communications Radio Systems technician. The board also honored local E-911 telecommunicators in recognition of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
A special commendation went to Building Official Mark Bowles, who helped Region 2 earn the “Merit Region of the Year Award” from the Virginia Building Code Officials Association. Bowles currently serves as chair of Region 2.
On March 25, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced that Munters Global will invest nearly $30 million to expand its HVAC manufacturing facility at the Botetourt Center at Greenfield. The 200,000-square-foot addition will create 270 new jobs and significantly boost local industry.
Munters, headquartered in Sweden, originally opened its Botetourt facility in 2022. The company cited the region’s skilled workforce and business-friendly environment as key factors in its decision to expand.
Economic impact estimates from the Roanoke Regional Partnership suggest the project will generate up to $150 million for the local economy and support over 180 additional jobs indirectly.
Public health and safety were front and center in April. A free CPR and AED training event, hosted in partnership with the Compress & Shock Foundation, drew 85 attendees and included emotional testimony from three cardiac arrest survivors.
Meanwhile, 24 firefighters from across the county attended a Strategy & Tactics for Initial Company Operations course in Troutville, aimed at strengthening emergency response leadership.
Looking ahead, the county will host a Building Safety Month Open House on May 19, offering training on the 2021 Virginia Residential Code. Sessions will be held at the Daleville Administration Center and are open to contractors and residents alike.
The Eagle Rock Library marked its 15th anniversary in April with a celebration that drew over 300 guests. Another big event is on the horizon in Fincastle, where the local library and community partners will host an Earth Day celebration on April 26. Activities include composting workshops, pollination education, and the grand opening of a new Story Trail in Big Spring Park.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also look forward to BOCO WILD on June 14 at Buchanan Town Park. The third annual outdoor expo will feature fishing instruction, wildlife education, and other recreational activities for all ages.
Additionally, the Daleville Summer Concert Series kicks off on May 3, and Parks & Recreation is offering everything from yoga to local field trips as part of its spring community programming.
The Regional Center for Animal Care & Protection (RCACP), a Botetourt County partner, recently reopened its remodeled free-roam cat room, thanks to a grant from Petco Love and support from GreaterGood’s Animal Rescue Site. The space provides a stress-free environment for cats awaiting adoption.
As spring continues to bloom, Botetourt County is proving once again that it’s a place where history, innovation, and community come together.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
