A fresh vision for downtown Christiansburg
By Christian Trejbal
Twenty years ago, Christiansburg splashed onto national television on ABC’s “Primetime Live” as an example of a community adrift. Chain restaurants and stores had squeezed out the historic character; downtown was rapidly fading. Today, downtown is faded. It is a pale imitation of a vibrant community’s heart.
A trio of young professionals hopes to change that.
Trejbal is a Roanoke Times editorial writer based in the New River Valley. Follow him on Twitter @ctrejbal.
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Just FYI–The website link didn’t work on my computer. Also wanted to give a thumbs-up to the charming new cafe next to Papa John’s. It has a cheerful yellow awning to match the cheerful, friendly interior…The Mockingbird Cafe is lovely and I will return soon. Took my son there as a congrats for getting into college! They have even have some gluten-free options for those who want them. What a treasure! Also, check out the adorable (and reasonably-priced) hand-crafted onesies by local sweetheart and mommy Becca Rainey. Grandmas and new moms unite! I actually also like the Coffee Depot, but they are frequently closed when I take a notion to going.
Comment by Ellen — February 10, 2013 @ 12:32 pm
The link has been repaired. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.
Comment by C. Trejbal — February 11, 2013 @ 9:02 am
Filled out the survey. Hope the revitalization efforts are fruitful. I was very hopeful about the Christiansburg Farmers market and subsequently saddened by the outcome. Tough situation-can’t have customers without more vendors, can’t (attract and) have more vendors without enough customers. Seems to be the situation downtown in general. I so very much want to support my local economy, yet I feel forced at times to go to big box stores/chains and/or head to Bburg for smaller shops with longer hours.As a side note: I think there is a lot of potential for MarketPlace to showcase local restaurants and shops as well, though I think it will take a national anchor for locals to hit that center.
Comment by JG — February 15, 2013 @ 1:04 pm