Bristol, Virginia Declares Former College Property Blighted in Effort to Revitalize Community

Bristol, Virginia Takes Bold Step to Combat Blight

Former Virginia Intermont Property Hits the Radar

In a recent development that has caught the attention of many residents, the City Council of Bristol, Virginia has decided to classify the former Virginia Intermont property as “blighted.” That’s right, folks! This long-abandoned college campus, which has been silent for nearly a decade, is now officially considered a thorn in the city’s side—a move that many hope will spark some much-needed change.

What Exactly Does “Blighted” Mean?

So, what does it mean to be labeled as “blighted”? According to city officials, a property can be deemed blighted if it poses various issues such as structural safety concerns, is visually unpleasant, has been abandoned, or suffers from other significant problems. It’s basically a property that’s dragging down the neighborhood.

A Vote for Change

The council members wasted no time in taking action—just recently, they approved an ordinance that not only declares the property blighted but also comes with a 5% increase in the real estate tax rate for that property. That might sound like a hefty price tag, but hang on! The funds generated from this tax hike will be put to good use by helping cover the costs associated with increased police patrols and the fire department’s calls to the area.

Community Impact

With this new designation, many hope to see a revitalization of the area, which has been in decline since the college closed its doors about ten years ago. “This property has become an eyesore,” one resident commented. “It’s time we do something about it. I just want to see the area thrive again!”

The city council believes that these measures will not only maintain security but also protect the community. The increased police presence is intended to ward off any illegal activities that might be attracting the wrong crowd to the area, while the fire department will be better positioned to respond swiftly to any emergencies.

What’s Next for the Property?

Now that the property has been labeled as blighted, the city plans to keep a close eye on it. The designation opens the door for possible interventions, which might include development opportunities or efforts to find new ownership that will improve the site. Many residents are optimistic about what could come next. “If someone could turn it into something useful, that would be amazing,” shared another local resident.

Local Voices Matter

It’s clear that the community is eager for a shift from stagnation to revitalization. While change won’t happen overnight, the city council’s decision is a step in the right direction. As they work towards bringing life back into the former Virginia Intermont property, every voice in Bristol matters. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, share their ideas, and actively participate in discussions with city leaders about the future of their beloved community.

A Beacon of Hope?

Though not everyone is thrilled about the tax increase, the sentiment among many is that this is a necessary move to safeguard the neighborhood and potentially lay the groundwork for something better in the long run. As the council looks forward to tackling the challenges posed by the blighted property, there’s a renewed sense of hope flickering in Bristol. Fingers crossed for transformation and a breath of fresh air in this lovely corner of Virginia!