Business

    Change is coming to Jackson Street in Centertown Bedford.

    Developer David McCormack has announced plans to develop the historic Clark and Company Plug Tobacco Warehouse into 32 apartments and a recent grant secured by Bedford Main Street, Inc., will help finance public improvements to that road.
    “It will certainly have an impact on downtown,” stated Sue Montgomery, executive director of Bedford Main Street, Inc., on the development plans. “This could give us a shot in the arm.”

    If you’ve driven past the former Golden Corral building on U. S. 460, on the west end of Bedford, you’ve probably noticed cars parked out front. Nobody’s coming there for lunch anymore, but rather to buy antiques. Bedford Antique Mall moved into the building on March 1.

    Valerie Almond, who, along with her husband John, owns the business, said the move was preceded by a major cleanup as the building had been vacant for eight years. However, it offered them plenty of space in a high visibility location.

    After more than a century of serving only members of the Elks, the  Elks National Home has opened its doors to the general public.

    The Elks National Home first came to Bedford in 1903. The current facility opened in 1916, with additions built in later years. Up until last year it was a retirement facility for Elks only.    “We are now open to people other than Elks,” said Pamala Mutter, the Elks Home administrator. “We want to share with the public now.”

    A Franklin County furniture business plans to expand into the Bedford market, following its purchase last week of the former Taylor Brothers building off Independence Boulevard.
    Virginia Furniture Market announced its expansion into this market this week, moving into the building at 1052 Independence Blvd, adjacent to the major retail center anchored by Wal-Mart and a variety of other businesses.