Blacksburg's Vacant Historic Landmark

Right in the heart of downtown Blacksburg’s historic district, a four-story building at 210 N. Main St. stands as a visible testament to neglect. Once home to Sharkey’s Wing & Rib Joint and, even earlier, the historic Lyric Theatre, the structure now displays boarded windows, chipping paint, and internal rot, a stark contrast to its bustling surroundings. Town officials, like Andrew Warren, Blacksburg’s director of planning and building, express a strong desire to see the building activated, acknowledging that its fate ultimately rests with the property owner.

The current owner, Mao Zijiao, acquired the property in 2023 through a "deed of gift" from Fengs Group Real Estate, who had purchased it in 2017 for $700,000. The building is currently assessed at $676,000. A "for sale" sign is present, and a woman identifying herself as Amy Chen, managing the property, declined to offer further details. The building, constructed in 1920, is part of the Blacksburg Historical District, making it eligible for various incentives, including a 12-year partial tax exemption on any increased assessed value from rehabilitation, a density bonus, a revitalization grant up to $20,000, and a rebate program for tourism zones. Deputy Town Manager Matt Hanratty also noted conversations with Montgomery County, whose tax rate is significantly higher than the town's, potentially offering more substantial tax relief.

Further support comes from a Department of Conservation and Recreation grant for a town-wide flood study, which will specifically benefit this property due to its location in floodwaters. Despite these incentives and a 2019 historic preservation application by a previous owner detailing a $1.5 million rehabilitation, and even a proposal for an Asian restaurant that ultimately fizzled, the building remains empty. Hanratty explains that the core issue is financial: the combined sales price and rehabilitation costs simply exceed the potential rental income, making it an unviable investment for many.

The town has actively pursued maintenance violations against the owner. In May 2024, the town hired a contractor to board up windows and replace others to prevent falling debris, billing the owner $1,500. More violations are pending, targeting issues like peeling paint and deteriorating cornices. Neighboring businesses, like 310 Rosemont boutique, feel the impact. Manager Ayla Lampros points out the challenges businesses face with Blacksburg’s fluctuating student population and believes the building needs a passionate investor willing to commit significant funds. Hanratty acknowledges community expectations for accountability and states the town's commitment to being more aggressive in enforcing property maintenance standards.

I think what stands out here is the complex interplay of historical significance, financial viability, and municipal oversight. It's clear that while the town is offering incentives and enforcing codes, the sheer economics of rehabilitation are a major hurdle for this prime piece of Blacksburg history. It makes you wonder what kind of creative solution or dedicated investor it will take to bring this landmark back to life.