The 3-dimensional model that accompanies an award-winning plan for the future Blue Ridge Heritage Education Center is on display through the end of February at the Patrick County library.
In March, the model will be moved to the Floyd County library.
Last year, the master site plan for the BRH Center was voted an Outstanding Plan by a Nonprofit Organization by the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association. Of the four APA Virginia awards, BRH was the only award-winner from outside the Washington, D.C., area.
“Nonprofits do a considerable amount to make great places happen in the Commonwealth,” said Will Cockrell, vice president of Chapter Affairs with APA’s Virginia Chapter. “With this instance, we thought the Blue Ridge Heritage Education Center could be replicated in other areas of the state.
“We were impressed with their process and the deliverable, bridging the gap between two regions,” Cockrell continued. “We also like to see planning work that leads to a tangible result; one that brings great value to a community. With all those considerations, we were excited to recognize this effort.”
The master plan was designed by Hill Studio L.L.C. in Roanoke.
Blue Ridge Heritage is a 501c3 organization dedicated to promoting education and economic enhancement through place-based programs related to the natural and cultural heritage of the Blue Ridge region in Floyd and Patrick Counties.
Steve Swartz, BRH’s secretary/treasurer, said the group plans to establish an education center and a visitor gateway on its 30-acre property near the site of FloydFest.
– Angela H. Hill
