File photo
By Matt de Simone
Buchanan Town Council recognized the 50th anniversary of the town’s post office Monday and formally established a Main Street Committee as the town continues efforts to promote downtown revitalization and economic development.
Mayor Sue Way read a proclamation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Buchanan Post Office, which was established in its current location in 1976.
According to the proclamation, the H.L. Williams family agreed that year to lease a small portion of its property to the federal government for the establishment of a new U.S. Postal Service office.
The Buchanan Post Office has remained at the location for 50 years.
The proclamation recognized the post office’s role in the town beyond simply delivering mail, noting its connection to communication, commerce, public safety and the community.
Way also reflected on the post office’s role as a gathering place for residents.
She recalled the community bulletin board outside the building and the conversations that frequently take place there.
“It’s a meeting place for us,” Way said. “I mean, it’s a community place.”
The proclamation formally designated Aug. 10, 2026, as the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Buchanan Post Office.
Council also approved the formation of a Main Street Committee as part of Buchanan’s participation in the Virginia Main Street program.
Town Manager Tim Mack explained that the committee will help the town advance through the state program, potentially increasing the town’s profile and access to resources for downtown improvements.
The committee will serve in an advisory capacity to Town Council and make recommendations while providing reports on milestones and progress.
Four members were presented for appointment: John Mays of Twin River Outfitters, Adam McBryde of Buchanan Theatre/Standing Room Only, June Morris of James River Drip, and Heather Burnette of Mrs. B’s.
One additional seat remains open, with Mack continuing to recruit a fifth member.
Council approved the roster and adopted a resolution formally establishing the Buchanan Main Street Committee.
Mack called the development “a big win for the town.”
The committee will focus on initiatives associated with the Virginia Main Street program, including downtown revitalization, historic preservation and economic development.
During the citizen comment period, a Buchanan resident raised concerns about the town’s advertised community listening session.
The woman said the invitation to “all residents and business owners” could be interpreted as excluding people who live outside Buchanan’s town limits but are active in the community.
She cited several local organizations and volunteers whose members or leaders live outside the town but contribute to town events and activities.
The citizen specifically mentioned volunteers involved with the Buchanan Theatre, Buchanan Town Improvement Society, Buchanan Library and Buchanan Lions Club, as well as volunteers involved with the annual carnival.
She suggested that the invitation be expanded to include community members who have an interest in the town, regardless of whether they live inside the municipal limits.
Way and Mack both clarified that members of the Buchanan community who are actively involved in volunteering and participating in town events are welcome to attend.
Buchanan’s Reggae by the River is scheduled for this Saturday, Aug. 15, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The event comes as the town continues to promote its slate of community activities.
The town’s calendar also lists the annual 9/11 Memorial Walk for Sept. 11, organized by Sirens & Salutes. Other upcoming dates include the Buchanan Planning Commission meeting Aug. 17, the Buchanan Tri on Sept. 12 and the next Town Council meeting Sept. 14.
Council also discussed the possibility of closing Main Street for Halloween-related activities later this year, with members raising concerns about traffic flow, lighting and pedestrian safety after dark.
