TAZEWELL, VA.— A recent update from the Virginia Tobacco Commission provided a  $350,000 grant for a proposed meat processing facility in Tazewell County, Va.

The commission stated the funds would support 50% of new land acquisition along with construction costs.

In 2023, the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority approved an $800,000 loan to support this project.

A previous agricultural strategic plan, completed by the Virginia Tech Office of Economic Development, identified the need for a federally inspected meat processing facility in the region.

When completed, the site is expected to be leased to Blue Ridge Butchery, according to a report by WVVA, which anticipates a 7,500-square-foot plant with two lines for processing beef, pork, lamb and poultry.

Tazewell County continues to search for additional funding for the project and previously stated the project is in a proposed development phase.