Galax Small Area Plan

Summit’s Planning Department was chosen to facilitate the development of an amendment to the Galax Comprehensive Plan.  Focused on the Creekside area of Galax, this amendment–the Galax Small Area Plan– is catalyzed by the forthcoming redevelopment of the vacant Vaughan Furniture Building into mixed-use residential units. The amendment will use this momentum to create a more holistic, community-oriented town experience.   

The Vaughan Furniture Building is a remnant of Galax’s industrial history. Seeking to help pivot Galax into its new direction as a cultural destination and tourism magnet in Southwest Virginia, the Town began moving forward to inject new life into the area while maintaining the building’s unique historical features. Summit’s Planning department analyzed the available, vacant, and underutilized parcels of land to use for this purpose. This initiative considered existing zoning districts, utility maps, hydrology, and traffic patterns. Our team also sought to understand the pre-existing conditions of the Town, including the existing local businesses and industries, particularly Galax’s rich furniture manufacturing history. 

Once a deeper understanding of the needs and desires of the community was accomplished, the Planning team developed a vision for the Creekside area in line with the Town’s new direction. The Galax Small Area Plan aims to generate a vibrant, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly economic center that encourages the growth of local businesses and draws visitors from across state lines. To highlight the positive impact of this growth, our team developed conceptual site plans, new zoning maps, and high-quality illustrative renderings that depict economic and recreational possibilities.