Vacant storefronts and run-down buildings line Sycamore and Magnolia avenues, but some people see potential — historic brick structures with plenty of floor space, open sidewalks, a picturesque background and a growing university.
Ed Walker is one of them. Walker, a developer known for his projects in downtown Roanoke, recently told the Buena Vista Town Council he has big plans for the city of 6,400. He purchased 16 properties in December for $1.03 million and within two years plans to have new businesses up and running in each.
In Roanoke, Walker redeveloped more than a dozen buildings into apartments, restaurants and music venues, creating a livelier scene and contributing to the growth of downtown’s population. His work there was aided by historic tax credits.
