GLADE SPRING, VA - A non-profit organization devoted to economic development in Glade Spring will launched construction on a new artisan center in the Glade Spring Town Square Tuesday, Oct. 9.
Members of Project Glade were joined by local, county and state officials as they kicked off a $500,000 renovation of an historic building for the development of a center for artisan entrepreneurs. The event began at 11 a.m. in front of the "Old Bank" building.
The project is supported through funding from the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Rural Development Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
"This is an historic moment in the revitalization of Glade Spring," said Leslie Peterson, president of Project Glade. "This project, which already has generated significant economic activity in Glade Spring, promises to help grow jobs and improve living in our town."
The artisan center would provide space for as many as 11 artisan entrepreneurs and would serve as a central location for continued tourism and economic development in the community. Since the project was announced, three new businesses have come to the Glade Spring Town Square and at least three more are in the planning stages.
"Glade Spring is coming alive with business and community activity, and we look forward to celebrating that as we launch this artisan center," Peterson said.
Project Glade encourages the public to attend the event and welcomes especially the participation of area artisans. A reception for participants will be held after the launching ceremony in the main conference room of the Glade Spring Public Library, which is also located in the Glade Spring Town Square.
