Virginia Varsity Storage Inc. plans to convert the historic Graves-Humphreys Hardware Co. Inc. site in Roanoke, Va., into a mixed-use property that will include self-storage, office space and residential units. It’ll be the company’s sixth project in the state, according to a press release.

The 2.2-acre parcel at 1948 Franklin Road S.W. contains five buildings and is home to about a dozen business tenants. Constructed in the 1960s, the existing structures were originally targeted for self-storage, but the plan was expanded due to its proximity to River's Edge Sports Complex and a greenway system.

“We have a contract on it, and it's going to end up being a little more interesting and exciting than we originally thought,” said John Lugar, president and founder of Virginia Varsity.

Two of the buildings will be demolished to improve parking and access to the site, while the remaining structures will be refurbished. A new building adjacent to the sports complex will include four stories of self-storage, with 60 apartments wrapped around it on two sides, the source reported.

Lugar plans to work with the existing tenants and incorporate them into the new design. He also said he hopes to bring a modern property to the neighborhood similar to one found in upscale communities. The renovations and new construction are expected to begin early next year.

Lugar also addressed past flooding at the site. The new building will be constructed out of the flood plain with parking on the ground floor, the source reported.

Graves-Humphreys was a distributor of agricultural items, glass, hardware, oils, paints and tools. The company also provided sporting equipment and team uniforms to local youth. A portion of the building near the Norfolk and Western Railway tracks previously served as a manufacturing plant for Roanoke Ice & Cold Storage Warehouse.

Headquartered in Salem, Va., Virginia Varsity Storage is a part of Virginia Varsity Transfer & Self Storage, which was founded in 1988 by Lugar as a moving company. In addition to providing moving services, it operates five storage facilities in Christiansburg, Roanoke and Salem, Va.

Source: WDBJ, Mixed-Use Development Planned for Graves-Humphreys Property in Roanoke