During a recent government meeting, officials provided updates on two significant community projects and an upcoming emergency exercise aimed at enhancing public safety.

The Washington Park pool project is making strides, with the contractor, National Pool, completing the excavation work and installing the water circulation conduit system. Construction on the pool house structure is set to commence this week, signaling progress towards the completion of this recreational facility.

In addition to the pool updates, officials announced a full-scale aircraft emergency exercise scheduled for Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Airport. The exercise will take place from 9 AM to 11 AM and will simulate a crash on the airport property, previously known as Courtside Countryside Golf Course. The event will involve dozens of volunteers acting as victims, complete with makeup, who may be transported to local hospitals as part of the drill. This exercise is a collaborative effort involving the airport, the city, the county, LewisGale, Clarion, and the health department, and aims to prepare local emergency services for real-life scenarios.

Officials emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the exercise, which will occur outside the I-81 corridor, ensuring minimal disruption to the community.