Good morning, Blacksburg.

The Blacksburg Library is set to host a digital detox event later in 2026 that offers residents a chance to step away from screens and engage in offline activities (more timing details will be announced soon).

Local officials propose rezoning Hurt industrial park from agricultural and residential use to heavy industry, which would open over 1,000 acres for advanced manufacturing+transformational job creation.

The plan is expected to boost regional economic growth in the coming months.

Virginia Tech announced plans to create a research center to address data center issues and boost tech innovation— a project that aims to support local research and drive new opportunities in Blacksburg.

The initiative follows a recent report confirming its viability.

Virginia Tech professor Juan Nicolau says his research shows that AI can read travel vibes to suggest outings such as hikes when energized and coffee stops when tired, while warning that sharing personal data may affect privacy.

Construction is underway on Christiansburg’s new train station that will restore passenger rail service to the New River Valley after nearly 50 years.

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority said service will begin in 2027 with daily morning and evening trips as an alternative to busy I-81.

Virginia Tech’s sports teams are on the rise as local events honor athletic achievements + VT’s Helmet Lab released its first youth hockey helmet ratings, adding momentum to a season of growing community support.