Governor Abigail Spanberger has recommended 19 projects and letters of intent for three additional projects, totaling $8,397,277, through the 2026 Virginia Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) program. These investments are set to drive economic growth, support over a thousand businesses, and provide new or improved infrastructure for 11,500 families across Southwest Virginia.
The recommended projects will collectively serve 1,240 businesses, create 58 jobs, and address immediate community priorities and long-term regional goals. They focus on infrastructure improvements, job creation, small-business support, downtown revitalization, and workforce development, aiming for sustained economic resilience and increased private-sector opportunity.
"With these new investments, we are strengthening the foundations of local economies, expanding workforce opportunities and good-paying jobs, and improving the quality of life for families across Southwest Virginia," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. The ARC program, established in 1965, assists the region in achieving economic parity and supports a strong, sustainable asset-based economy across 25 counties and eight independent cities in Southwest Virginia.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery added, "These ARC awards reflect the Commonwealth’s commitment to advancing long-term, durable economic development throughout Southwest Virginia." The projects include critical water and sewer upgrades, public utility rehabilitation, and preparing industrial sites for private investment. They also broaden workforce capacity through job training, recovery-to-work pathways, and fellowship placements.
Tamarah Holmes, Ph.D., DHCD Director, highlighted the innovation, saying, "The 2026 awardees represent some of the most innovative and high-value proposals we’ve seen." Investments will also fuel small-business expansion, artisan market access, entrepreneurship services, and revitalize cultural venues and tourism assets, guiding long-term housing, recreation, and economic growth strategies.