Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Will Roanoke’s new zoning plan really be settled by April?

Spotted on the Roanoke calendar: Grooves & Goods with Femme Fatales Vinyl Club

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Good morning Roanoke! Your connection to what's happening around town is here. Take a sip of coffee and read on. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Will Roanoke’s new zoning plan really be settled by April?
  • How did Roanoke earn its reputation as a top adventure town?
  • How the new Wasena Bridge will change your daily Roanoke commute

Also on today's calendar: Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings and 7 more events.

Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: My brother swallowed a box of firecrackers. - Is he all right now? 🤔 (Answer below!)

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Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Weather forecast:

  • Thursday: Rain and drizzle in the p.m., with a high of 46 and low of 41 degrees.
  • Friday: Mostly sunny and windy, temps: high: 48, low: 26.
  • Saturday: Partly sunny, with a high of 52 and low of 31 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Roanoke homeowners await resolution as zoning changes linger for nearly two years (wsls.com) — Roanoke homeowners are still waiting for clarity on a controversial zoning amendment that would allow townhomes and small apartments in single-family neighborhoods like Raleigh Court. After lawsuits, reversals, and delays, city leaders now aim for fresh public engagement in early 2026 and a possible council vote by April, leaving residents weighing promises against nearly two years of uncertainty.
   

2. In Our Hometowns: Roanoke becomes an outdoor destination (wdbj7.com) — Roanoke is being celebrated as a premier outdoor destination, with its green spaces, mountain biking, and major events like the Blue Ridge Marathon drawing regional and national attention. Local leaders say the Star City’s authentic, outdoors-focused culture is helping cement its reputation as a top adventure town.
   

3. Major progress made toward Wasena Bridge Replacement Project, manager says (wfxrtv.com) — Roanoke drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can expect major relief soon as the Wasena Bridge replacement is now about three-quarters complete and still on track for early summer reopening. Crews are beginning the first of 11 concrete pours, and the new design will feature wider sidewalks, bike lanes, scenic outlooks, and a roundabout on the Old Southwest side to improve traffic flow and access toward downtown.
   

4. Thinking of gifting a pet for the holidays? Shelters say, do your research! (wfxrtv.com) — Roanoke families eyeing a puppy or kitten under the tree are being urged by the Roanoke Valley SPCA to think carefully about the long-term responsibility first. Staff recommend involving the whole family in the adoption process, researching any breeders thoroughly, and considering donations of money, blankets, toys, or food if you’re not ready to bring home a pet.
   

5. In Our Hometowns: Roanoke evolves to meet changing times (wdbj7.com) — Roanoke’s past and future come together through the stories of longtime leaders like historian and former mayor Nelson Harris, civil rights advocate Rev. Edward Burton, and medical education pioneer Dr. Cynda Johnson. Their reflections highlight how railroads, civil rights struggles, and the Virginia Tech Carilion partnership have reshaped the city and continue to drive Roanoke’s growth and resilience today.
   

📸 Around Roanoke

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🗓 Events Nearby

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Public Service Announcement: Some followers of this site have been asking about "Angel Trees" for Seniors.
    I visited Raleigh Court Nursing & Rehab this morning...they have an "Angel Tree" in the hallway just past their front lobby. The tree still contains… (Nextdoor Winterberry)
  • Does anyone recognize this cat?
    It comes to my house daily for food, and sleeps on my porch chair (which we don't mind) but wanted to see if anyone knows who he/she belongs too? (Nextdoor Greater Raleigh Court)
  • Kroger posted a job opening for Courtesy Clerk/Grocery Bagger in Roanoke. Apply here.
  • CareBridge posted a job opening for Account Service Manager Sr - Pharmacy Account Management in Roanoke. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Roanoke here.

Ok Roanoke! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I don’t know. I haven’t heard the last report.
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