Fincastle Town Council received a wide-ranging update from Town Manager Melanie McFadyen during its regular meeting Thursday night, highlighting progress on the town’s Community Development Block Grant application, improvements at the town park, sidewalk projects and several maintenance efforts.
McFadyen told council the town submitted its application for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) on July 1 and expects to learn this fall whether it has been awarded funding. If approved, work would begin in 2027, with downtown building façade improvements taking priority before other grant-funded projects.
According to the grant narrative distributed to council, the proposed revitalization effort would focus on rehabilitating commercial buildings in the historic district while making infrastructure and accessibility improvements. Plans include façade renovations, upgraded sidewalks, drainage improvements, streetscape enhancements, improved lighting, and expanded parking. The project also aims to strengthen economic development by attracting new businesses and visitors to Fincastle’s historic downtown.
Council also received an update on improvements at the town park. McFadyen said construction of the new gazebo by Blue Mountain Construction is progressing well. The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office will assist with completing the park fence and bridge work, while Bert Perkey continues work on the monument.
On sidewalk improvements, McFadyen said the deteriorating section along West Main Street presents a more complicated challenge than initially anticipated. Because portions of the sidewalk fall within Virginia Department of Transportation, town, and private property rights-of-way, VDOT does not consider it a standard maintenance project. As a result, the town would likely need grant funding before undertaking a full replacement. McFadyen said several other sidewalk locations have been identified and submitted to VDOT and are expected to be repaired this year.
McFadyen also reported that the town has contracted with a specialty company to pressure wash the municipal water tank using a process that cleans the structure without damaging its paint. The work will cost $500.
She also praised this year’s Independence Day fireworks celebration, saying vendors were pleased with attendance and the large crowd. Although lightning prompted organizers to begin the display earlier than planned, the event was otherwise successful.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
