DANVILLE, Va. – A historic Danville neighborhood is getting a fresh start as city officials advance plans to restore and revitalize the area through a comprehensive redevelopment initiative.
The effort, dubbed “Plan Mechanicsville,” aims to transform one of the city’s most historic districts while preserving its rich cultural heritage. The plan is part of a broader 14-year redevelopment strategy focusing on both the Mechanicsville neighborhood and the River District.
“We feel like we have an opportunity to build a future for the River District, for the Mechanicsville District that celebrates that shared pride in that history that we have but also that shared responsibility to carry them forward,” said Rachel Covington, River District Association Board Member.
The revitalization plan includes several key components:
- Enhanced pedestrian accessibility with new sidewalks and bike lanes
- Traffic calming measures
- Expanded affordable housing options
- Repurposing of vacant buildings
- Historic preservation initiatives
High Street Baptist Church, a landmark in the neighborhood, exemplifies the area’s historical significance. The church played a pivotal role in Virginia’s civil rights movement, even hosting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who spoke to hundreds of congregants there.
“To see the decline but to also see what is being dubbed as the comeback for the city has been absolutely amazing,” said Pastor Michael Pritchett of High Street Baptist Church. “Seeing what the government is doing and seeing what the city has committed to saying ‘hey this is an area that needs a little bit more of attention’ is a beautiful thing.”
The plan’s housing component particularly excites local leaders. “I think that it will be a great thing for this area: The jobs that can be created, the stability, the long-term home ownership and wealth that can start to blossom,” Pritchett added.
City officials are currently seeking community input for the next phase of the project. Residents can participate in the planning process through a survey available here.