9.11.23 -
The Town of Bedford is pleased to announce four exciting projects underway within the community. These projects include a proposed new Dunkin' on East Lynchburg Salem Turnpike, a new Royal Farms in the Harmony Town Center, an approval of 130 housing units between Fuqua Mill Road and Independence Boulevard at Ole Dominion Boulevard, and the rezoning of the area surrounding the prospective Hampton Inn by Hilton hotel, which will be located on Burks Hill Road at Tiger Trail. These initiatives, which demonstrate the Town's dedication to fostering economic growth and enhancing community well-being, evolved from creating an environment that encourages private investment. To provide further details about these specific projects, Dunkin' is expected to occupy the former Little Caesars pizza restaurant on U.S. Route 460 east. Royal Farms, known for its fried chicken and large fries, will be the first store of this Maryland-based chain in the Bedford area. Royal Farms is currently under construction and is expected to open in spring of 2024. The area surrounding the recently-announced Hampton Inn hotel, near the National D-Day Memorial, was rezoned by Town Council to the General Commercial, or B-2, zoning district classification. Although additional developments have not been discussed on this site, General Commercial zoning allows for the establishment of businesses such as restaurants, office space, and other service businesses. The recently-approved residential subdivision at Independence Boulevard, to be called Eastyn Crossing, will include homes priced in the mid-$300,000s and other amenities such as a pavilion and playground. This project is being spearheaded by DBI Capital Group, LLC and will bring in a regional builder. The addition of new single-family residential units will increase the number of town residents to shop in Bedford businesses, drive demand for the creation of new businesses, and bring more school-age children to Bedford County Public Schools within the Liberty Zone. Overall, the Town anticipates these initiatives will stimulate the local economy, increase job opportunities, and enhance the Town's appeal to both residents and visitors, further making Bedford an attractive and relevant small town. In addition to successfully attracting a business-class hotel – a high-priority goal within the Town Economic Development Authority's Strategic Plan – the Town has also effectively facilitated strategic economic growth as outlined in its Comprehensive Plan. According to Mary Zirkle, the Town's Director of Planning and Community Development, "The Office of Economic Development is pleased to work on all of these ventures to move them quickly to fruition. These projects did not happen overnight, with all of them taking time to develop." In fact, for the Hampton Inn specifically, actions for its development began in 2021. Through patience, diligence, and resourcefulness, the Town has been committed to accelerating economic progress within Bedford. Mayor Tim Black, further noting the efforts of the Town, stated, "The Town of Bedford welcomes the expansion of new businesses and residential development in our community. The commitment from Town Council, the Economic Development Authority, and Town staff to grow our community responsibly is starting to bear fruit. Bedford continues to enhance its reputation for being a great place to live, work, and invest in, and I am hopeful this momentum continues."