Bedford County has been awarded a $1 million Rural Community Facilities Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support the renovation of the former Montvale School building. 

Bedford County received the news from the offices of Sen. Mark R. Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine on November 13, 2025. Bedford County worked closely with Sen. Warner’s staff, who provided guidance and counsel during the grant application process.

“I’m thrilled to see this federal funding head to Bedford County to revitalize the former Montvale School building and transform it into back a vibrant hub that can serve the community,” said U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner. “From child care to health care, I look forward to seeing this project preserve a significant piece of Bedford County’s history, while serving the needs of the Montvale community.”

Originally built in 1930 as a high school, the building later served the community as an elementary school until 1996. Bedford County Parks & Recreation continued to use the former school’s gym for sports and recreational programs through 2014.

There has been a recent push from the local community to see the former Montvale School building be brought back to life. In 2022, a local group of citizens formed the Montvale School Preservation Foundation with a mission to save the building and turn it into a community center.

Bedford County Supervisor Bob Davis (District 6) stated: “This long-awaited goal is finally coming to fruition thanks to the hard work and dedication of a devoted group of community partners. I look forward to seeing this grant bring new life to the Montvale School building and restore its place at the heart of the community.”

The grant will initially fund the installation of a new roof, with additional work needed on flooring, windows, electrical systems, and other critical repairs.

Bedford County is expected to receive further guidance from the USDA regarding the grant in early 2026.