In Danville, VA, and the surrounding areas, there has been a great deal of expansion happening recently. New homes and businesses are being built daily, and the population continues to grow. In the small town of Danville, there are few exciting things to partake in. The mall is, unfortunately, losing stores, the restaurant choices are limited, and it has been difficult for people to find homes here in recent years. To counteract this, it seems the city is expanding, and officials and citizens want to create a new image for Danville, VA.
Danville’s White Mill
Located on the south side of the Dan River, this 55,000-square-foot building was originally built in 1920 for textile manufacturing. Ever since it shut down in 1996, the mill has been left abandoned and used for storage. Since its beginning in 2017, the Dan River Falls project has been to restore the mill to its former glory. Plans are to use the space for apartments, shopping, office space, and parking to accommodate the city’s growth. According to Chatham’s Star-Tribune, Mayor Alonzo Jones thinks that the development of Dan River Falls will be impactful on Danville. “This is going to be one of the most exciting years that the City of Danville, I believe, has ever seen in the history of where we are today,” said the mayor (McFarland, 2023). Sources say that the first phase of the project, which includes housing, commercial areas, and parking, should open towards the end of 2024.
Future Riverfront Park
Stretching across 4 acres, this new park along the Dan River will feature a children’s playground, a pier outlook, water access, and outdoor recreation space. The highlight of the playground is a 40-foot-tall otter. This otter has already been placed at the sight. It has been said that the park will be built to withstand flooding from the Dan. It is expected that this new park will become a highlight of Danville and will be very popular. According to WDBJ7 News, Director of Danville Parks and Recreation Bill Sgrinia claims, “The Riverfront Park is designed to be our premier downtown space, that’s our premier park” (Shelton, 2024). Sgrinia claims that the construction was delayed due to weather, but it is expected for the park to open this fall (Shelton, 2024).
In the small city of Danville, there have been many changes being made. From new stores and businesses to the construction of new homes, this humble town is beginning to expand. As the population grows, the demand for entertainment, resources, and homes goes up, and this city plans to meet those needs.
Sources:
McFarland, Diana. “White Mill renamed Dan River Falls; project to transform former mill begins.” Star-Tribune. January 12, 2024. White Mill renamed Dan River Falls; project to transform former mill begins. September 25, 2024.
Shelton, Makayla. “Danville’s Riverfront Park set to open this fall.” WDBJ7. March 26, 2024. Danville’s Riverfront Park set to open this fall. September 27, 2024.
