Gov. Ralph Northram brings grant to promote business development and jobs in Buchanan

In the shadow of Purgatory mountain highlighted by a bright blue October sky, a crowd of wellwishers greeted the Governor of Virginia, Ralph Northram. He traveled to Botetourt on Wednesday the 9th in the afternoon to present a grant for small business development and jobs in Buchcanan. The Town is one of four rural communities in the state to receive a grant.

“The grant is $45,000 dollars to be used with small business and entrepreneurs,” said Northram who was accompanied for the announcentment by Commerce Secretary Brian Ball and Del. Terry Austin. Austin noted the state’s interest in the small community as well as I-81 improvements. The state has invested 1.4 million in grants to help rural areas develop local jobs and business. A number of local partners participated in the application process for the grant.

Town Manager Jason Tyree said, “The money will likely be used perhaps similar to an apllication process for existing business expansion or new development.”

Mayor Craig Bryant said, “We have three areas we concentrate on here in Buchanan. “Community, sustainability and the future. The grant will help address our needs in all three areas by growth and development.”

Story and photo by Cathy Benson