The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism is now the second city department to move into and old — and iconic — textile mill.
The city announced this week that the economic office has officially relocated to what’s now known as Dan River Falls, but forever will be called the White Mill building by longtime residents.
The office joins Parks and Recreation in the building that’s a mix of loft-style apartments and commercial areas.
The building at 420 Memorial Drive underwent a roughly $110 million makeover via a partnership between The Alexander Co., a developer of historic buildings, and the Danville Industrial Development Authority.
Economic development offices were previously in multiple areas of the Municipal Building in downtown Danville.
“I am deeply grateful to the City Council for their support in providing the necessary resources to create modern office environments within the historic White Mill,” Danville City Manager Ken Larking said in a statement.
Larking believes that putting the economic and tourism offices in one area will lead to better collaboration and efficiency.
“The renovated space not only stands as an inspiring example for businesses considering a move but also breathes new life into a building that has been a significant landmark along the river for over a century,” Larking said in a news release this week. “It is exciting to witness the revitalization of this iconic structure.”
Even with the exposed giant circular columns and ceiling, the inside looks nothing like it did when hundreds of workers made the sewing machines hum for Dan River Inc.