The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ) has awarded $35,000 in technical assistance grant funds to support a market and feasibility study for the Bassett Community Center, a key step toward its potential redevelopment.
The West Piedmont Planning District Commission (WPPDC) applied for $50,000 in 2024 on behalf of the community center through the Virginia Brownfields Assistance Fund. The funding was awarded in January 2025, unlocking $35,000 for the study.
This funding comes from an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Community-Wide Assessment Grant for States and Tribes, which was awarded to VDEQ in 2022. The Bassett Community Center was selected due to the presence of asbestos-containing materials, its historical and social significance, potential for redevelopment, and limited available resources.
“The Planning District Commission’s commitment to the site and the willingness of the community center stakeholders to collaborate and support these efforts were also factors in the decision to allocate grant funds for this work,” said Karen Weber, Brownfields Coordinator for VDEQ.
While this specific grant does not require a local match, it will provide matching funds for a separate Virginia Brownfields Assistance Fund grant previously awarded for asbestos abatement in parts of the building. The documents produced from the study will be critical in securing future funding for additional environmental cleanup and redevelopment work.
“I view a market and feasibility study as an essential foundation for the future of the Bassett Community Center,” said Rebekah Morgan, WPPDC Director of Community Development. “It will give us a clear understanding of what the community truly needs and what is realistically achievable, helping to align our vision with economic, recreational, and regional development goals. Making data-driven decisions now ensures we create opportunities and programming that serves the Bassett community well for years to come.”
VDEQ has contracted Stantec, a consulting firm based in Ashland, Va., to conduct the study. Their task is to evaluate the market feasibility of reopening the community center’s building and pool. The final report will include maps, graphics, and tables to clearly present their findings, which will help guide the next steps in pursuing funding for rehabilitation.
“We appreciate this funding, which will be a crucial step in moving the project forward,” said Ronnie Dillard, vice president of the Board for the Bassett Community Center.
The WPPDC is a regional planning organization serving Franklin, Henry, Patrick, and Pittsylvania counties; the cities of Danville and Martinsville; and the Town of Rocky Mount. Its mission is to foster regional collaboration among local governments, educational institutions, economic and workforce development organizations, and other key stakeholders. Learn more at westpiedmontpdc.org.
