Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced a $7.3 million investment through the Virginia Energy Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program, aimed at fostering economic and community development in coal-impacted areas of Southwest Virginia. These five strategic awards will support job creation, enhance healthcare and emergency services, improve transportation infrastructure, and upgrade facilities at UVA Wise.
The AMLER Program transforms former mine lands into productive assets, driving new businesses, infrastructure, and long-term economic growth. This competitive 2025 funding round saw 16 applications seeking over $39.3 million, with the announced awards obligating 91.5 percent of the $7.9 million available. Governor Spanberger emphasized her administration's focus, saying, "My Administration is laser-focused on creating good-paying jobs and expanding economic opportunity across Southwest Virginia and our entire Commonwealth."
Among the projects, Russell County IDA received $2.5 million for "Project Franklin," which will convert 88 million tons of legacy coal waste into a low-carbon pozzolan product, projected to create up to 95 jobs. Another $1.45 million will establish an urgent and primary care clinic in Lebanon, also in Russell County. Buchanan County IDA secured $1.6 million for the Corridor Q / Route 460 highway expansion, while UVA Wise will use $1.5 million for a parking lot expansion. The Town of St. Paul received $250,000 for a Regional Emergency Services and Training Facility.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery noted, "AMLER is a powerful tool for helping coal-impacted communities transform and innovate," highlighting the practical and lasting benefits for residents and businesses. U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith added that these awards will "improve quality of life and create a stronger foundation for future economic development."