
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, May 11, 1994                   TAG: 9405110078
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: New River Valley bureau
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG                                LENGTH: Short

BLACKSBURG COUNCIL SEEKS ADVICE ON PLAN FOR TOWN

The town is soliciting residents' opinions on the character and uses of the central residential and business districts of downtown Blacksburg as it tries to formulate a vision for the area.

Town Council appointed an advisory committee to study the area, which contains some of the town's oldest buildings and is located near Virginia Tech.

During the 1980s, redevelopment occurred in the area, and some residents became concerned about the number of businesses springing up, as well as the population density.

Three years ago, Town Council adopted new regulations for the central residential district, lessening the number of dwelling units allowed per acre, removing Greek housing as a special use permit, and reducing the amount of space that parking or buildings could take up on a lot.

When the regulations were adopted, it was with the understanding that a consultant would help evaluate their effects within two to three years.

The advisory committee is sending a survey to all property owners and residents in the area, soliciting input about commercial and residential land uses, zoning regulations and neighborhood character. Similar surveys were sent regarding the Toms Creek Basin and South Main Street.

For more information, contact Carol Bousquet or Rob Chiles at 961-1114.

by CNB