09/30/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Richard “Pete” Peters
Town Manager
540-983-0607
[email protected]
Town of Vinton seeks to redevelop property formerly destroyed by fire
VINTON, VA – September 30, 2026 – The Town of Vinton is seeking proposals from developers to redevelop a prominent site that was impacted by the devastating fire that occurred in the early morning hours of July 2, 2022.
Widely covered by news outlets, the fire destroyed the former DR Music building located at 101 East Lee Avenue after the building’s roof collapsed. The incident also impacted four adjacent apartments and the building that once housed Edward Jones Investments. The destruction left a visible scar within one of the most important blocks in the heart of downtown Vinton.
In 2025 and 2026, the Town acquired the 4 impacted parcels with the goal of restoring and revitalizing this key area and enhancing the downtown development district, creating future revenue opportunities for the Town, and supporting new employment opportunities for citizens. The combined parcels consist of .18 acres at the corner of Pollard Street and Lee Ave., offering a highly desirable central location to all entertainment and commerce within Downtown Vinton.
The Town has advertised a Request for Proposals #092826 to develop a 3-story boutique hotel or mixed-use commercial and residential housing project. The shovel-ready site is strategically located in the heart of Vinton’s vibrant downtown with walkable access to all commercial storefronts in Vinton’s central business district. The desired project should include either a higher-density boutique hotel or mixed-use development with first-floor commercial and second- and third-floor residential uses. Desirable options and features may include an outdoor patio/green space, new commercial storefronts, a rooftop experience, and other amenities to appeal to residents and visitors.
“The Town seeks development partners to thoughtfully redevelop the site in a manner that maintains the character and supports the continued revitalization of downtown Vinton,” stated Richard “Pete” Peters, Town Manager. “The fire that occurred in 2022 was devastating to the former property and business owners and also displaced several residents who lived in second-floor apartments. This redevelopment project is a great opportunity to restore a highly visible corner and further strengthen our resurgent downtown economy. Vinton Town Council remains committed to investing in projects that strengthen downtown, encourage economic growth, and create vibrant spaces for residents, businesses, and visitors”.
For more information visit:
View site video: https://youtu.be/vJ77NUQ5A08
View RFP: https://www.vintonva.gov/Bids.aspx
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