Business and Economy - The Roanoke Rambler

New $85M Investment and 435 Jobs for Roanoke

RINGANA plans to establish its first U.S. headquarters, production and distribution facility in the City of Roanoke. The Austrian life sciences company will invest $85 million over five years. Roanoke, VA Author: Roanoke Rambler Staff Published: 7:00 AM EST June 17, 2026 Edited: 7:00 AM EST June

Social Issues

Childcare at Work: How Virginia’s New Law Could Quietly Boost the Roanoke Region’s Economy

When Governor Abigail Spanberger signs Virginia’s new employer-backed childcare law on May 27, it won’t look like a jobs announcement, but for parents and businesses across the Roanoke Valley, it could be the policy shift that finally changes who can work, how much they earn, and whether

Homelessness

A Roanoke Ministry says it’s Helping the Unhoused. Business Owners say Downtown is Paying the Price

After Roanoke upheld zoning violations against The Least of These Ministry, supporters, business owners and unhoused residents offered sharply different visions for what downtown should become. Roanoke, VA Author: Roanoke Rambler Staff Published: 2:05 AM EST May 20, 2026 Edited: 2:07 AM EST May 20, 2026 Tears, frustration,

Transportation

Brief Valley Metro Stoppage Signals Key Bargaining Stage as Fare Increase Proposed

Bus drivers refused overtime on a Monday earlier this month.

Legal

Water Authority Releases Google Data Center Records Ahead of Scheduled Contempt Hearing

The case could have far-reaching implications in Virginia over the disclosure of information that governments once deemed proprietary.

Development

Roanoke's Historic Huntingdon Gets Reprieve, Developer Backs Off Demolition Plan

The home has been on the state and national historic registries for more than 30 years.

Business

Thrifting in Roanoke? Don't Pass Up These Vintage Clothing Shops

With over a dozen listed secondhand businesses, Roanoke is a destination for sourcing quality vintage fashion.

Business

Response to Tariffs Cited as Orvis Sells Roanoke Warehouse to Coca-Cola Affiliate

The soft drink bottling company and the sporting goods retailer plan to share the building, at least for now.

Transportation

Walmart To Build Bus Stop at Valley View, Finally Breaking Bureaucratic Impasse

Progress has "taken forever," said a former city council member.

Development

Google Aims To Build 3 Data Centers, Totaling Nearly 1 Million Square Feet in Botetourt, Records Show

If the plan is carried out, Google should invest no less than $3 billion, according to a performance agreement with Botetourt County.

Business

Roanoke Plans To Clear-Cut Forest Near Read Mountain for Potential New Industry

Once given the green light to begin, it will be one of the largest tree-felling episodes in recent memory to alter the landscape of the city.

Legal

Judge Fines Owner of Eyesore Parking Garage, Lawyer Says City Is Interested in Buying It

The city is also seeking $10 million from the state for new train station.

Legal

Water Authority Seeks Emergency Appeal Pause As Clock Ticks on Releasing Google Data Center Information

A failure to deny the accuracy of already released information is confirmation of its accuracy, a lawyer said.

Business

A Ferris Wheel in Downtown Roanoke? Center in the Square Pitches Plan to Local Leaders

There's a video pitch. And an international company is offering thoughts.

Business

Roanoke Strip Club Can Reopen Without Zoning Board Action, Building Permit Issued

A $50,000 renovation is ongoing as a plan to reopen a club on Franklin Road progresses, according to city records.

Business

‘A $30 Million Experiment': Goodwill Navigates Uncharted Territory, Deficit During Market on Melrose’s First Year

“You know, our battle has only just begun,” said a Goodwill administrator. “But we are in it to win it, and I don't have any doubt that we will.”

Legal

Google Strives To Keep Data Center Water Use Secret After Judge Orders Records Released

A Roanoke judge has ordered the Western Virginia Water Authority to release information related to a potential Google data center.

Business

Substance Abuse Treatment Clinic at Valley View Gets a No From Roanoke Commission

The opposition included the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.