News Flash

Meet the City of Roanoke's newest Fire-EMS paramedics and officers. Watch highlights from a promotional ceremony held January 15, 2026

Get a look inside Roanoke County's new Fire Station 12 in Bonsack! Celebrating one year of service, see how the facility's innovative design and strategic location are lowering response times in the area by 50%. You'll also get a taste of what a day in the life of a firefighter is like.

With the graduation of Roanoke's Police Academy 91, RVTV's Inside the Academy has completed it's 22 episode run. Watch the whole series on RVTV's YouTube Page, or television apps on Roku, AppleTV and Firestick.

The 2026 Student Registered Apprenticeship Showcase is coming up on January 22nd, 2026 at the Berglund Special Events Center, 5:30PM - 7:30PM. Students and Parents/Guardians are welcome to come and talk with businesses who seek student apprentices to learn and apply skills learned in career and technical education while earning a paycheck.

Did you know that produce grown in Roanoke County was once in high demand as far away as New York and England? Join historian Nelson Harris for a look at the history of Bent Mountain and Back Creek.

On December 19, 2025, Roanoke City Schools held a ceremony to unveil a historic marker honoring Lucy Addison, who was instrumental in educating African American students beyond elementary school. Hear from school officials and local historians about the lasting legacy Lucy Addison had on Roanoke City Public Schools.

What is peer recovery work and how does it support people in the Roanoke Valley experiencing substance abuse addiction and other challenges?  Bailey Medeiros, Director of the Roanoke Valley Collective Response, sat down with Brian Bailey, Peer Recovery Specialist from the Bradley Free Clinic and Dr. Kimberly Horn, Author for Friendships Matter for Life to talk about the power of peer recovery work - why these relationships matter, how meaningful support changes outcomes, and the role the Peer Recovery Network plays in strengthening recovery across our community.

Roanoke County Economic Development convened manufacturers from across the county for their inaugural Manufacturers Forum, a strategic discussion focused on energy planning, reliability, and the economic conditions impacting industry. Featuring insights from Appalachian Power and economist Fletcher Mangum of Mangum Economics, the forum explored operational realities alongside broader market energy trends relevant to manufacturers.

Watch the full 2025 Investiture Ceremony for members of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors and the Roanoke County School Board held on Monday, December 15, 2025

We’re Roaming Roanoke County at the Fire and Rescue Academy. Laura Schneider, the Community Outreach Coordinator for Fire and Rescue, and Em Poertner try their hand at the physical agility test that recruits have to complete as part of their application.

Watch the annual State of Roanoke County Address now on RVTV.org

Roanoke's director of Public Libraries is retiring after 43 years of dedicated service to the community. Get a look inside Sheila Umberger's retirement celebration at the Grandin Theater.

Hazardous or flammable wastes like paints, oils, pesticides and batteries need to stay out of our landfills! On this episode of Let's Talk Trash, the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority reminds you how to properly dispose of these items if you live in the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, City of Salem and Town of Vinton. 

Boundless ABA is a new therapy clinic dedicated to kids with autism to help promote positive behaviors and make sure they're school ready. The business recently celebrated a ribbon cutting in Roanoke's Norwich neighborhood.

Valley Metro celebrated 50 years of service by honoring the dedicated staff that make reliable public transportation possible. Find out how things have changed over the years and see highlights from a recognition ceremony. Valley Metro proudly serves the City of Roanoke, Town of Vinton and City of Salem.

P1 Technologies is an advanced manufacturer in Roanoke County, whose products power medical devices, defense systems and consumer electronics used around the world. Recently Roanoke County Public Schools students had a chance to tour the facility and learn about the company's diverse career options.

The Town of Vinton celebrated Veterans Day with a ruck walk, followed by the placement of 300 flags in front of the Vinton War Memorial. Find out why dozens of participants came out to recognize our local heroes.

The Roanoke County Citizens Public Safety Academy is now enrolling for 2026. Find out what the program is all about and hear from recent participants how the experience impacted their understanding of public service.

Officials from Roanoke County and the City of Salem held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of Phase 1 of the West Roanoke River Greenway. The new 0.60 mile stretch along West Riverside Drive features beautiful elevated river views, fencing, and a new parking area.

Check out the new public art on storm drains at Roanoke County's Vinton Library and South County Library! See how local artists have brought to live designs submitted by youth and teens this summer. It's all part of a  place making initiative by Roanoke County's Planning Department which will continue with an upcoming wall mural at Bent Mountain Library. #publicart #stormdrains #placemaking 

The Roanoke County Citizens Public Safety Academy is now enrolling for 2026. Hear from recent participants how the experience impacted their understanding of public service in this podcast from the Roanoke County Police Department.

Construction is progressing on Roanoke's new Wasena Skate Park! See how the concrete is poured, and hear why the construction team from Artisan Skateparks is so passionate about what they do

Ever wondered why there's a zoo on top of Mill Mountain? What started as a children's petting zoo in 1951 grew into one of Roanoke's most beloved attractions. Join RVTV and historian Nelson Harris in our new monthly series showcasing stories about our region.

Salem Animal Hospital is celebrating 80 years of exceptional service to pets and their families! They recently unveiled a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, built just behind the original location. The new 9,000-square-foot, two-story building was designed to provide an even higher level of care and comfort for both pets and their owners. With a team of seven full-time veterinarians and 25 dedicated support staff, Salem Animal Hospital remains deeply rooted in the local community. For eight decades, the practice has combined cutting-edge veterinary medicine with the warmth and personal touch of a small business—treating every patient like family. 

Take a look at the history of Explore Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway, from its founding as a living history museum to its transformation into an outdoor recreation destination under the leadership of Roanoke County Parks, Recreation and Tourism

The Town of Vinton has partnered with local developers to create an innovative new space called The Stone Plaza. By creating an attractive gathering place near the farmer's market, modernizing storefronts, and improving pedestrian access, the town hopes to attract both visitors and business tenants.

On a mission for accessible transportation in Roanoke County? CORTRAN offers services for residents ages 65 and older or with a disability, operated by Virginia Regional Transit. In this informative music video the Soul Brothers use the service to get to their performance on time. 

It's National Community Planning Month! See how Roanoke County's planning department is working to improve safety on Plantation Road with help from citizen feedback. A recent road safety audit identified a few ways to improve walkability in a busy corridor

W.E. Cundiff Elementary School celebrated the opening of a new administrative wing, cafeteria and kitchen as part of a major expansion that is nearly complete! Get a look inside and find out why local officials are so excited about the project.

What started as a book club study of the 1974 Pulitzer Prize winning book "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek" by Annie Dillard, turned into a call for local artists to reflect on meditation and connections to nature. Thirty submissions are now on display at the City of Roanoke's Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, offering introspective works to help us better grasp the beauty of our world.

Ever wondered what it's to hose down a fire burning at over 1200 degrees? The Roanoke County Public Safety Academy recently gave citizens a chance to participate in flashover training with Fire & Rescue.  It's part of a six-month program that provides a behind-the-scenes look at a variety of public safety departments. Enrollment for the next session begins soon.

The latest Roanoke County Economic Development "Industry Insight" Tour at Carilion Children’s Tanglewood Center highlighted how healthcare innovation is thriving in Roanoke County, Virginia. From modern pediatric services to a welcoming environment for families, this state-of-the-art facility is helping shape the future of healthcare in our region. Get an inside look at Carilion Clinic’s project, which brought together 14 pediatric specialties under one roof, and see how Roanoke County's Industry Insight Tour series continues connecting Roanoke County Public Schools classrooms to local career opportunities.

It's National Community Planning Month! See how Roanoke County's planning department works with businesses to process land use applications and review site development plans. Using the new Sheetz on 220 South as an example, we'll give you an overview of how new development projects are approved. 

Roanoke County began breathing new life into Explore Park in 2013 after taking on a 99-year from the Virginia Recreational Facilities Authority. Part two of our Destination Explore Park Series looks at the early years of progress under Roanoke County's leadership, including master planning and attracting new outdoor recreation businesses to the park. 

Roanoke County celebrated National Manufacturing Day this October by hosting student tours of eight local businesses! ⚙️ Find out how these visits will impact the career decisions of Roanoke County Public Schools students, while helping strengthen the local economy by training the next generation of workers. This effort was a collaboration between Roanoke County Economic Development,  Roanoke County Public Schools Career & Technical Education Department and the Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board

What happens when fifth grade students from Roanoke City Public Schools are tasked with judging Virginia Tech's graduate level science projects? See highlights from this year's Flip the Fair held at Melrose Public Library.

Part one of this series provides an overview of the park's early history in the 1980's through 2013, when Roanoke County took over operation of the facility.

Roanoke's Old Southwest neighborhood celebrated the ribbon cutting of a new "pocket-park" on Day Avenue. The community celebrated the opening during their annual Porch Fest event. 

Tropicana Bar & Grill recently opened at Williamson Road Plaza. Take a look inside this remodeled space offering Latin American food, pool tables, line-dancing and weekly entertainment. 

Mayor Cobb addressed the Roanoke Police Academy Class 90 at their graduation ceremony in September. His son, one of the graduates, shares his passion for public service. Hear from both of them about why they chose to serve and the importance of public safety in the City of Roanoke.

Get a look inside the newly renovated Holiday Inn Tanglewood, which celebrated a ribbon cutting this week

Roanoke Police Department recently held is graduation ceremony for Academy Class 90. Hear from Chief Booth, Mayor Cobb, and some of the new officers as well as Class 91 recruits as they celebrate this milestone.

Get a first look at this year's Art By Bus campaign from Valley Metro, Art in Roanoke, RIDE Solution  and the Bus Riders of Roanoke Advocacy Group (BRAG). 🚍 This year's bus features artwork by Joe Lee, along with a comic book that takes the reader on a ride through Roanoke Valley neighborhoods, local landmarks and history, with the important message that all are welcome on the bus. #ArtByBus #WeekWithoutDriving

Each month the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority and RVTV are taking you behind the scenes to find out what happens after the can hits the curb. Look for new episodes on the last Thursday of each month, highlighting the people, equipment and technology used to properly dispose of waste.

⛈️When disaster strikes, be prepared.⚡️It’s important to be able to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 hours. Storms, power outages, and other emergencies can happen anytime. Check out these helpful tips! A little preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow. #preparednessmonth #weatheraware #roanoke #safety

Keeping your little ones safe starts with making sure they are properly buckled in every ride, every time! Follow safety tips from Roanoke Fire-EMS and Carilion Clinic to protect your children on the road.

Roanoke County Public Schools celebrated a construction milestone for the upcoming Roanoke County Career and Technology Center (RCCTC), with a ceremonial beam signing and the launch of a financial endowment to support student success.

Town of Vinton officials welcomed the opening of Cleveland Commons, a new mixed-use development consisting of apartments and office space. See how this unique project came to life!

See the South County Library from a new perspective! We're flying through in one continuous shot to catch a glimpse of all the activities going on at Roanoke County's headquarters location.

Only rain should go down storm drains! On a new episode of Roam RoCo, we're spray painting storm drains to remind people about the importance of protecting our waterways. Last year over 100 storm drains were painted through a volunteer effort that you can participate in!

Get a look inside this week's Mayor's Business Summit hosted at Virginia Western Community College. Business, non-profits and community leaders got together to talk about new opportunities and ways to thrive. 

Valley Metro is an easy and affordable way to get around the Roanoke Valley, with service to the City of Roanoke, City of Salem and Town of Vinton. In this video, learn how to plan your next trip and navigate the service. Plus get a look at other services offered by Valley Metro including MetroFLX, the SmartWay Bus, and the Star Trolley Line

The Town of Vinton celebrated the ground breaking of a new Extended Stay America Premier Suites Hotel on September 16, 2025. The 42,984 square foot facility will have 92 rooms and bring an investment of over $12 million to the town, through managing partner KARA Hospitality.

Roanoke County unveiled a new metal fabricated LOVE sign to be displayed at Explore Park, and transported to special events throughout the year. Find out how a student from Burton Center for Arts and Technology helped on the project through an internship with Lift Arc Studios. Special thanks to Lift Arc for providing behind-the-scenes video of the fabrication process.

Students at Roanoke County's Glen Cove Elementary honored those who lost their lives on 9-11 with a flag raising ceremony presented by National Guard Members. Fourth and fifth graders also demonstrated a research project dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Students at William Byrd Middle School got outside the classroom to explore nearby Wolf Creek and study ecosystem health. They were joined by science educators from Clean Valley Council for a unique field study experience to help them become Opportunity Ready!

Are you ready to forge your path with a career in law enforcement in Roanoke County? Find out what to expect in the hiring process. Get a look inside the Roanoke County Criminal Justice academy. And learn about some of the unique benefits only offered by our department.

Over 30 paddlers took to the water at Carvins Cove this weekend for the inaugural Crash the Cove Race. Check out highlights from the  two-mile sprint and five-mile distance floats hosted by Roanoke Parks & Rec.

Roanoke County's Green Hill Park hosted over 3,200 athletes from throughout the region for the annual Knights Crossing race on Saturday, September 6. Find out from race participants and organizers why this tradition has become such a popular event.

Join RVTV producer Preston Seaman for a unique look at Roanoke's history! We'll dive into archived interviews with local historian Nelson Harris to share and preserve memories of our region's past while exploring how these people, places and events have become a foundation for an even brighter future. Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple podcasts with release on the first of each month.

If you own a business in the City of Roanoke, you may be eligible for an equipment matching grant from the Roanoke Economic Development Authority. Applications will be accepted beginning October 1. Learn about the grant and find out if your business qualifies!

Mayor Joe Cobb delivered the annual State of the City address on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Hotel Roanoke. 

Roanoke County Public Schools received a $200,000 donation from Alro Steel to enhance student opportunities in the Welding and Motorsports Program at the new Roanoke County Career and Technology Center. Learn more about how the funding will impact students enrolled in this popular program.

There's a new Sheetz location on 220 South near Tanglewood Mall in Roanoke County. Find out how the company is giving back to local charities including Feeding Southwest Virginia and the Special Olympics, and check out scenes from the ribbon cutting.

Last year American consumers reported losing $5.7 billion to investment scams. Want to avoid being a victim? Roanoke County Fraud Detective Harris joins Officer Forehand to discuss ways to identify fraud as well as protect your finances and privacy.

The second annual Cuts for Cops event was held on Saturday, August 9 at Carilion Children's Hospital. Roanoke County Police and area businesses teamed up to offer free haircuts, shoes, backpacks and school supplies as summer break comes to a close. Carilion and the Virginia Department of Health provided vaccinations, and Fleet Feet Roanoke donated over 600 new shoes to help students in need.

Learn about the Town of Vinton's new Comprehensive Plan which will guide community and economic development decisions for the next 25 years. Find out what's in the plan and how extensive citizen input made it possible.

Look inside a new 80,000-square-foot facility dedicated to providing resources designed to address the social determinants of health. The new Melrose Plaza houses Virginia's first adult high school, health resources, a finance center, cultural history and community gathering spaces.

The Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce has a new home in Varsity Park next to River's Edge Park in the City of Roanoke. Get a look inside their new space, and find out how the move will help promote a thriving business community in our region. 

This episode highlights Carson Jernigan as he takes a polar plunge as a practical example of stress inoculation.

Get a look inside a unique summer camp for kids with disabilities! This week Roanoke County's regional Therapeutic Recreation Services division wrapped up seven weeks of fun and magical memories for individuals who might not otherwise get to experience summer camp.

What brought the 2025 USA Cycling National Cross Country (XCO) championships to Roanoke County's Explore Park? This weekend the classic East Coast style trails and vibrant atmosphere are creating the perfect backdrop for Endurance Mountain Biking's biggest event. Check out some of the action on Friday, July 18 then make plans to join the fun all weekend long. Spectators welcome!

As the 40th anniversary of the Flood of 1985 approaches, Roanoke's Stormwater division is looking for personal experiences to help preserve local history. Submit your story online at RoanokeVA.gov/stormwater

We’re roaming Roanoke County on a bike out at Explore Park! There has been a lot of to get the trails ready for the USA Cycling Cross Country National Championship races, but there are still areas where beginners can learn the skills they need.

Day one of the USA Cycling Endurance Mountain biking National Championships is in the record books! Check out the scenes from Hollins University and Carvins Cove on July 14, 2025.

What's it like to be a Roanoke County police officer? Dozens of Roanoke County middle school students got a behind the scenes look at public service during the annual COPS camp held at Camp Roanoke. 

Roanoke is investing in the city's oldest neighborhood! Over the next few months, Gainsboro Road will be transformed with a vision of safety and increased mobility for all. Improvements include high visibility crosswalks, a mobility track, curb extensions, pedestrian signals and new on-street parking. 

On this episode of Roam RoCo, Em Poertner is taking Brenda, a Roanoke Adventure Dog, out for a day. The RAD program gives dogs at the Regional Center for Animal Care and Protection an opportunity to get out of the shelter for a day, relax, and meet potential adopters! #ShelterDogs #Adoptables #adventuredogs 

Did you know that vehicle thefts increase during the summer months? Last year 385 vehicles were stolen in the City of Roanoke. A few simple tips from the Roanoke Police Department can help prevent you from becoming a victim.

Rookie's has been a local favorite for ice cream, cookies and other sweet treats since starting as a food truck in 2017. Look inside their new brick and mortar location on Route 419 in Roanoke County. #icecream #newbusiness #sweettreat 

School Resource Officers are very cruicial to ensuring safety and security in the school buildings as well as providing support and mentorship to young citizens. Hear from Roanoke County School Resource Officers Maxey & Wingate about their experiences working in the schools. 

If you're considering joining the team, apply now: 

https://www.roanokecountyva.gov/410/Careers

Medeco has manufactured high security locks in the Roanoke Valley since 1968. Get a look inside the factory and learn about the types of career paths available at the company.

Distracted driving can cause accidents leading to serious injuries or even death.  Roanoke Fire-EMS responds to motor vehicles accidents that can often be avoided. Stay safe by keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel!  Together we can knock down the risk and drive distraction free! #KnockdownTheRisk #DistractedDriving #FireEMS

See if you have what it takes to pass the Roanoke Police Academy's Agility Course - watch a walk through video on RVTV.org

The region's best huddlers and cuddlers face off in a long-awaited rematch. Who will take home this year's K9 Cup? Will it be team RCACP or team Angels of Assisi?

The Roanoke River Greenway is now CLOSED under Wasena Bridge (effective April 29, 2024). Greenway users will notice the clearly marked detour running alongside the park and through Wasena Village. Both road marking and detour signs are in place to help users avoid the construction zone while the new bridge is being built. In total, this detour is just under 0.5 miles, following Winchester Avenue, "Little" Main Street, Winona Avenue and Wiley Drive. If you have questions about the greenway detour, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at https://www.playroanoke.com/contact-us/