Rockbridge County Office of Economic Development

10/23/2026

Winter Is Coming! Explore Ways to Save on Energy Costs

As temperatures drop, heating bills can add up quickly. BARC Electric members may have options to improve energy efficiency and potentially save on energy costs this winter.

🌡️ Smart Thermostat Program: Eligible members may receive a $25 bill credit for participating in BARC’s thermostat program.

🏠 Manufactured Home Energy Savings: Eligible homeowners and renters may qualify for a no-cost home energy audit and upgrades such as insulation, air sealing, duct sealing, and smart thermostats to help make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient.

🔋 Home Battery Program: Members with qualifying home battery systems may be eligible for financial incentives for helping reduce electricity use from the grid during periods of peak demand.

Each program has specific eligibility requirements, and the thermostat and battery programs cannot be combined. Visit the link below to explore the options and learn more.

Learn more: https://www.odec.com/barc-electric-energy-programs/

10/21/2026

A little piece of Rockbridge County is getting the spotlight!

Virginia Living recently featured Tantivy Farm, where Brian and Penny Ross transformed their longtime horse farm into a beautiful lavender destination with scenic mountain views, gardens, walking trails, and a gift shop featuring lavender-inspired products.

What began as a new way to enjoy their 54-acre farm has grown into a place where visitors can experience the beauty of our area and connect with the land. It’s a wonderful example of local entrepreneurship and agritourism in Rockbridge County.

Read the full feature from Virginia Living:
https://virginialiving.com/outdoors/tantivy-farm-lexington-virginias-scenic-lavender-fields/

10/20/2026

We were grateful to host the 2026 Governor’s Summit on Rural Prosperity right here in Rockbridge County and welcome rural leaders from across Virginia to our community.

Thank you to the Virginia Rural Center for bringing this important conversation to our region, and to our local partners in Rockbridge County, Lexington, and Buena Vista who helped showcase the collaboration, businesses, and community spirit that make our area special.

10/20/2026

Let’s show some love for one of Rockbridge County’s most iconic destinations!

Natural Bridge State Park is a finalist in WSLS 10’s 2026 Hometown’s Best contest, and we’re encouraging everyone to cast a vote for this incredible local landmark.

From its breathtaking natural arch to its scenic trails and rich history, Natural Bridge is a Virginia treasure right here in our own backyard.

Take a moment to vote and help put our corner of Virginia in the spotlight!

Vote here: https://www.wsls.com/features/2026/10/16/hometowns-best-vote-for-your-favorite-southwest-virginia-tourist-spotdestination-finalist-in-2026/

The search is on for Southwest Virginia’s favorite tourist spot/destination, and the finalists for this year’s Hometown’s Best have officially been announced.

10/19/2026

A big shout-out to our local Wawa team for receiving the company’s GOAT Award in recognition of their outstanding customer service!

Congratulations to TGM Karen Iseman and her team. Thank you for the warm welcome, excellent service, and the ways you’ve already gotten involved in our community since opening in Rockbridge County.

We appreciate businesses that go beyond serving customers and make an effort to be part of the community. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

10/15/2026

Day two of the Governor’s Summit on Rural Prosperity is underway!

Our Director of Economic Development Brandy Flint sits on the Rural Housing Panel exploring creative solutions to rural housing challenges and highlighting some success stories right here in Rockbridge.

10/14/2026

The Governor’s Summit on Rural Prosperity has kicked off!

Our Economic Development Director Brandy Flint sits on a panel with local leaders welcoming the summit to Rockbridge County

10/08/2026

Help for Lowering Home Energy Costs

More than $67 million in funding is now available across Virginia to help eligible households make critical home repairs and improve energy efficiency.

Through Virginia’s Weatherization Assistance Program, homeowners may be able to receive assistance with improvements such as insulation, air sealing, energy-efficient lighting, and other upgrades that can make homes safer, more comfortable, and less expensive to heat and cool.

For residents of Rockbridge County and Buena Vista, Total Action for Progress (TAP) is the local weatherization provider. TAP offers free weatherization services to eligible homeowners in our area.

Learn more and see if you may qualify:
https://tapintohope.org/program/weatherization-program/

TAP Weatherization program provides insulation and sealants to improve energy efficiency of homes, lowering utility bills.

10/07/2026

A special day for Glasgow and Rockbridge County.

The Purple Heart Homes house has officially arrived in Glasgow and is now on its foundation.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this project possible and proud to have this meaningful project happening right here in Rockbridge County.

From the National Mall to Glasgow, this home has already had quite a journey. We can’t wait to see it become a new beginning for a veteran in need.

It’s more than a home. It’s a new beginning. ❤️

The Purple Heart Homes house has officially arrived in Glasgow, Virginia, and today, it’s being placed on its foundation.

This home represents gratitude, dignity, and a lasting commitment to the veteran who will call it home. From the National Mall to Glasgow, the journey continues. 🇺🇸

10/06/2026

AI in Business & Workforce Development

Join The Advancement Foundation and AFCEA Rockbridge Shenandoah Chapter for an evening focused on AI, workforce development, cybersecurity, and the future of business.

📅 October 19 | 5:30–8 PM
📍 Virginia Innovation Accelerator, Buena Vista
🎟️ Free admission

Hear from industry experts, join the conversation, and connect with other local business and technology professionals.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/2m7frcc4