Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
The Roanoke Regional Chamber hosted the 2025 State of the County Address on the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 10 at Green Ridge Recreation Center after the event was postponed due to a winter storm.
The annual Roanoke County address, presented by Appalachian Power, drew a sold-out crowd of about 365 attendees, according to chamber officials. Roanoke County Board of Supervisors Chairman David Radford outlined recent accomplishments and future priorities, with a focus on economic development, education, housing and infrastructure.
Eric Sichau, president and CEO of the Roanoke Regional Chamber, opened the program by emphasizing the county’s role in regional collaboration and economic momentum. He thanked county staff, partners and sponsors for adjusting plans following the weather-related delay.
Radford highlighted major private-sector investments announced over the past two years, including Elbit America’s more than $30 million expansion in the Hollins District, which is expected to create nearly 300 jobs. He also noted Wells Fargo’s $87 million investment nearby, redevelopment at Tanglewood Crossing, the construction of an extended-stay hotel in Vinton and Publix’s new store along Brambleton Avenue.
Since 2023, Radford said Roanoke County has seen more than $150 million in new project investments, creating over 1,500 jobs and supporting more than 2,100 businesses countywide.
Workforce development and education were also key themes. Radford said the county continues to partner with Roanoke County Public Schools on career pathways and is investing $75 million in a new Career and Technical Education Center scheduled to open in 2027. He noted the county directs more than $104 million annually to public schools and has ensured every school has a dedicated school resource officer.
Transportation and outdoor infrastructure projects were also highlighted, including progress on the Interstate 81 widening project, the diverging diamond interchange at Routes 419 and 220, new greenway segments and the Appalachian Trail pedestrian bridge over Route 311.
Radford also pointed to Explore Park as a major success story, noting the county officially secured full ownership of the park in August. The park now attracts more than 300,000 visitors annually and continues to expand with lodging, events and trail connections.
Looking ahead, Radford said the county is conducting a housing market study to address affordability and availability as population and job growth continue.
“Our desire is to help our community grow, prosper and remain an attractive, vibrant place to live and work,” Radford said.
