Negotiations ahead for group proposing community hub in Ferrum

FERRUM, Va. (WDBJ) - As Franklin County considers what to do with 85 acres of undeveloped land in Ferrum, a community group is optimistic its plan for the property will move forward.

The Friends of Ferrum Park say they are looking forward to negotiations with the county that could clear the way for the work to begin.

We’ve followed this story since Franklin County put out a request for proposals, and the Friends of Ferrum Park responded with one of two plans. The supervisors haven’t accepted the group’s proposal, but they have agreed to continue negotiations. And leaders of the organization say that’s a positive step forward.

Two picnic tables are now in place just a few steps from Route 40 where a farmers’ market is set to open April 18. The Friends of Ferrum Park hope it’s a preview of coming attractions.

“We can protect the environment and have a community space,” said Katrina Harrison, the group’s Vice Executive Director, “and we’re going to prove that.”

We sat down with members of the group at Ferrum’s 77 Restaurant, a popular spot where the community comes together.

The Friends of Ferrum Park hope 85 acres of undeveloped land near Ferrum College can serve a similar purpose, by providing housing, protecting green space and creating a community hub.

“We get information from people who say, hey, why not this. And it brings more ideas and the ideas just keep on flowing,” said Susan Selvage, the group’s Director of Housing.

Members of the group have been buoyed by the amount of support within the community, and the response of the supervisors who were open to their idea.

“All of them stepped up and said, okay, this is different, but I’m open to it, and I see the potential and I see how good this could be and they supported it,” said Friends of Ferrum Park Executive Director Rebecca Saunders. “And that’s huge.”

It’s not a done deal. There are negotiations still ahead. But members of Friends of Ferrum Park say they are optimistic they can reach agreement on a purchase price and satisfy any other concerns that county officials might have.

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