Rockbridge Report – Page 7 – Since 1985

Rockbridge Report

Saturday, April 4

Future of former Lexington Coffee Shop remains in question as renovations drag on

Lexington Coffee Shop closed last year after Karen and Jon Landis bought the building and started renovations. Electrical issues have delayed the project, according to their contractor. Former manager Rachael Rooney says her plans to reopen the coffee shop didn’t work out.

Pam Bondi fired as Trump’s attorney general

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche was named as the acting attorney general, though some familiar with the matter said Trump is considering Lee Zeldin, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency, as a permanent pick.

Buena Vista bed and breakfast seeks to expand, rent more rooms

The Blue Ridge Abbey is asking the city to rezone its property so that it can expand to a total of 16 rooms. Several residents and council members cite concerns about increased traffic, noise and preserving the neighborhood’s character, while others say it could bring more tourism and needed lodging to the city.

Developer gets zoning approval for 192 multi-family apartments just north of Lexington

The Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors approved the zoning amendment for 12.5 acres of land west of the intersection of North Lee Highway and Northwind Lane and four miles from downtown Lexington.

Regional drug task force makes six arrests in relation to drug trafficking ring

The James River Regional Drug Task Force is a multi-agency effort that spans three counties – Rockbridge, Bedford and Botetourt. One recent investigation in Rockbridge resulted in six arrests in connection with the trafficking of around 100 pounds of methamphetamine, authorities say.

Second Sheetz gas station approved for Rockbridge County

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board has approved plans for the new Sheetz. It would replace the Super 8 motel at the intersection of U.S. 11 and Route 39, just outside of Lexington.

Generals look to stay undefeated as W&L hosts second weekend of NCAA women’s basketball tournament

The Generals will play again in front of their hometown crowd, which packed Holekamp Gym during the opening rounds last weekend. They take on Bethel University on Friday in the Sweet 16.

Officials debate whether it’s time to scrap tax breaks for Virginia data centers

Virginia state Senators voted to end an annual projected $1.6 billion tax break for data centers. It’s unclear if the proposal will pass the House of Delegates.

Rockbridge County will implement new rules for solar energy facilities

The ordinance has been in the works for over two years and sets criteria for where solar projects can go. The rules are also intended to preserve the landscape and ensure public safety.

General Assembly passes bills that would prohibit premature separation and hybridization at roadside zoos

The legislation, inspired by the Natural Bridge Zoo case, has been sent to Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who hasn’t indicated if she’ll sign them. Hybridization would also have to be stopped at zoos if the bills become law.

New primary care practice aims to expand health care access with membership model in Rockbridge area

River Ridge Family Health charges patients a monthly fee, rather than billing insurance. It comes as an estimated 5% of Rockbridge-area residents are uninsured – and many more might lose coverage later this year.