The City of Buena Vista has completed a major milestone in reimagining the future of the Bontex site, a long-vacant industrial property that sits at a key gateway into the City. The recently finalized conceptual reuse study and assessments, funded through a Technical Assistance Grant from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), builds on a multi-year effort to revitalize the site, which included establishing both state and national historic designation and initiating the pursuit grant funding to support revitalization.
This study outlines a bold, phased vision to transform the site into a vibrant, mixed-use destination that includes retail, dining, lodging, event spaces, and public access to the Maury River and regional trail networks. It includes detailed environmental, structural, market, and connectivity assessments that support phased revitalization, attracting investment, and connecting the site to the broader economic, recreational, and cultural goals of the community.
Key Elements of the Study
Environmental Site Assessment
The assessment identified several environmental hazards, including abandoned chemicals, deteriorating wastewater infrastructure, and other hazards that must be addressed before redevelopment can proceed. A Virginia Brownfields Assistance Fund grant application is being submitted to begin addressing these issues, starting with removal of hazardous basement materials and further remediation planning.
Structural Conditions Assessment
Most buildings on the site are in fair to good structural condition. However, major repairs are needed, including roof and masonry stabilization, termite damage mitigation, and complete replacement of outdated mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety systems. ADA accessibility improvements are also necessary.
Market Analysis
The study identified strong demand within a 10-mile trade area for uses that align with Buena Vista’s growing outdoor recreation economy. Potential opportunities include:
- A boutique hotel with 10–20 rooms
- 67,000 square feet of retail and dining space
- Recreational equipment rentals and event facilities
Conceptual Reuse Plan
The plan envisions a dynamic, mixed-use destination that includes:
- A pedestrian plaza at the main entrance
- Riverfront dining/brewpub and an industrial-style event venue
- Indoor marketplace and climbing wall
- Boutique lodging with historic character
- Interpretive features that highlight the site’s history
- Full ADA accessibility across the site
In addition to the link above, further information about reuse options are included in Appendix C – Preliminary Reuse Options.
Trail Connector Feasibility Study
The long discussed trail extension was further studied to determine the feasibility of linking the Chessie Trail to the River Walk by passing through the Bontex site. The study recommends a 260-foot elevated timber walkway to navigate steep terrain, seating and shade areas, a potential golf cart path, and reconstructed connections over the Chalk Mine Run trestle. Improved intersections and site access points are also proposed, following further future studies and coordination VDOT.
Next Steps
With the initial study complete, the City is advancing a series of next steps that include:
- Environmental remediation and further assessment
- Rezoning and regulatory updates to allow for mixed-use development
- Structural stabilization and waterproofing
- Accessibility, infrastructure, and system upgrades
- Refinement of the reuse plan and phased implementation strategy
- Engagement with private developers and pursuit of public and private funding sources
This is a large, long-term project that will unfold in phases over several years. Its success will depend on continued collaboration between the City, the property owner, state agencies, private developers, and other partners. With this study now complete, Buena Vista is positioned to take the next steps toward transforming Bontex into a cornerstone of economic revitalization and community pride.
To explore the full findings of the Bontex Reuse Study, readers are encouraged to click the links provided within each section of this article. These documents offer detailed assessments, plans, and recommendations that support the future redevelopment of the site.