In June, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced the investment of $2.1M to provide much needed infrastructure for the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD). This award was the result of application by the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission with extensive coordination, research, and assistance from the CSPDC.

The Department’s award through the EDA is to match a planned investment of nearly $3 million by the Airport Commission to construct corporate aircraft hangars, office and aviation flex space in the Shenandoah Valley Aviation Technology Park. Together the EDA and Airport Commission investment will result in approximately 25,000 square feet of new hangar and office space and create up to 75 high-paying jobs in the aviation technology and aviation maintenance sector.

RideShare, a program administered by the CSPDC in partnership with the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission, has refreshed its website to be more user-friendly and include a new trip planning tool that maps out regional transportation options. RideShare provides commuters, employers, and single trip drivers with resources on carpools, vanpools, park and ride lots, the Guaranteed Ride Home program, and alternate modes of transportation such a biking, walking, and public transit. Together the new information-packed website and the RideShare – Rides & Rewards app, help reduce traffic congestion, increase mobility, and incentivize cost saving alternate modes of transportation throughout the Central Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia.

In August, the Commonwealth launched a new grant program for small businesses and nonprofits called Rebuild VA. The program will provide grants of up to three times the applicant’s average monthly eligible expenses up to a maximum award of $10,000.

These grants are aimed at assisting small businesses and nonprofits that have faced economic distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible entities include restaurant and beverage service, non-essential retail, exercise and fitness, personal care and personal grooming, entertainment and public amusement, private campgrounds and overnight summer camps.

This statewide program is capitalized with $70 million, which means it will be able to assist approximately 7,000 businesses. Half of the proceeds will be directed toward small businesses and nonprofits located in economically disadvantaged areas, including ensuring adequate representation of women-owned and minority-owned businesses.