Good morning, Blacksburg.

Downtown business owners say this summer is the worst because Virginia Tech students have left town, which cuts sales and adds stress from parking and construction.

They expect things to improve when students return + local festivals bring more visitors.

Today, regular gas in Virginia costs $3.91 per gallon according to AAA; local communities including Blacksburg, Christiansburg and Radford have seen rising prices amid regional trends.

Drivers might face further cost hikes as national events continue to strain supply + market dynamics.

Radford University ranked #9 while Virginia Tech came in at #4 in Niche.com's Best Value Colleges in Virginia list — based on student surveys and education data.

The rankings underscore the region's commitment to accessible, quality education.

Last month at Virginia Tech campus, over 40 students joined the Virginia Association of First Responders’ Youth Rescue Camp, where instructors from the Virginia State Police and local departments taught scuba diving (at the Aquatic Center) and rappelling at Lane Stadium to spark interest in public safety careers.

Residents on local hiking trails today are reminded to watch for eastern copperheads and timber rattlesnakes.

Wildlife experts advise keeping a safe distance if you encounter one to stay safe.

On Monday, the Western Virginia Water Authority clarified local misinformation regarding Google Data Center's water usage by stating a binding Utility Service Agreement (signed in Sept. and Oct.

2025) provides 2 million gallons per day, with a future option to increase to 8 million gallons pending supply assessments.

Muck Around & Find Stout Tour

Aug 8-9 — The Milk Parlor — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an eclectic mix of folk-rock with Irish and Gypsy influences from The Muckers.