The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission (RVARC) strives to be a regional leader by bringing groups together to strategize about boosting the local economy, improving quality of life, and promoting sustainability. The commission takes a big-picture approach to planning that upgrades infrastructure across the region, sparks economic growth, and maintains a high standard of living. RVARC also handles long-term transportation planning on a regional scale, coordinating with various partners to meet diverse transportation needs—everything from highway projects to greenway trails. By collaborating with local, state, and federal partners, the organization helps implement comprehensive solutions for getting people and products where they need to go.
What We Do
Planning for Regional Prosperity
Programs
See how our programs are transforming transportation, housing, economic growth, and environmental stewardship
Transportation
The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission is involved in a number of transportation-related planning programs. We provide staffing for the Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and manage Rural Transportation planning services for the region.
While addressing issues associated with transit, pedestrian, bicycle, freight, rail, air and truck transportation, staff is tasked with providing planning services that also consider, human, environmental, fiscal, and economic impacts in an equitable manner.
Economic Development
RVARC is your gateway to advanced economic development. Our array of services includes data analysis, mapping, IMPLAN, economic impact studies, and coordination of regional initiatives such as broadband and the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).
The Regional Commission also works with local chambers of commerce, tourism groups, and other partners to support local tourism, business recruitment, workforce development, and branding.
Livable Roanoke Valley
The Partnership for a Livable Roanoke Valley is redefining regional development. The collective, consisting of seven local governments and more than 60 organizations, is focused on creating sustainable economic opportunities and enhancing the quality of life.
Explore the commission’s strategic initiatives and discover how you can play a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and environmental balance. Your engagement is key to our collective success.
Outdoor Recreation
Experience the great outdoors with our diverse range of projects. From enhancing greenways to supporting the Roanoke River Blueway, they’re making outdoor activities more accessible and enjoyable. These initiatives aim to encourage community engagement, promote healthy lifestyles, and foster a deeper connection with nature.
Whether it’s cycling, hiking, or paddling, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. Explore these initiatives now and be part of a movement that values outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.
Resiliency
At the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, we are committed to leading regional sustainability efforts, with a special focus on air quality management, transportation systems, energy conservation, and comprehensive environmental planning.
We’re dedicated to educating the community on energy conservation and collaborating with local businesses and governments. Discover how our programs contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment.
Energy Initiatives
The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission (RVARC) plays a pivotal role in sparking and guiding discussions on regional energy initiatives and concerns. RVARC’s programs are instrumental in helping businesses, industries, institutions, and government entities to cut down on energy usage and manage energy resources with greater efficiency.
These programs not only educate and engage the community in energy conservation but also offer practical advice for residents to reduce their energy use. Furthermore, RVARC connects local businesses specializing in conservation and efficiency with potential customers, fostering a community-oriented energy conservation and management approach.
RV Collective Response
The Roanoke Valley Collective Response (RVCR) unites diverse sectors to combat the opioid crisis. It’s an innovative, multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, healthcare, government, education, and the community.
RVCR focuses on root cause analysis, evidence-based practices, community education, and creating support networks. Discover how it nurtures resilient communities through recovery and wellness, ensuring healthy life pathways for those affected by addiction.
