What do arts districts and creative economies have in common?

Arts districts bring economic opportunities. Research shows that having a group of artists and creative professionals living in one area has great economic and cultural benefits in terms of spin-off businesses, public gathering spaces, and overall citizen engagement with the arts.

In 2012 Blacksburg Town Council passed Ordinance 1660 establishing an Arts and Cultural District to provide incentives in designated downtown areas. From this ordinance, three distinct zones were created. These include a Live, Work, Sell Arts Overlay Zone; a Tourism Zone; and a Creative Transitional Zone.

Betty Moore At the Edge of the Marsh

Financial Incentives Matrix (PDF)
Arts and Cultural District Map (PDF)

To learn more about the Arts and Cultural District please contact the Planning and Building Department at 540-443-1300.

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