Welcome »

Welcome to Bedford, Virginia, one of the fastest growing areas in the State. A good mix of indus- try, commerce and agriculture ensures a strong, diversified economy and a positive business climate. Bedford's political atmosphere is stable, the tax rates favorable, the school system excel- lent, and the quality of life outstanding.

Strategically located between the metropolitan areas of Lynchburg and Roanoke, Bedford is part of the Lynchburg Metropolitan Statistical Area. A good labor environment exists, provid- ing availability at reasonable costs, and a strong work ethic results in high productivity and low turnover.

The Bedford area abounds with natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities offering residents and visitors a pleasant environment in which to live, work and play.

Location »

Bedford County consists of 764 square miles in the west-central portion of Virginia known as the Piedmont Plateau. The City of Bedford, the county seat, is located in the heart of the county on the US Route 460 corridor, midway between the cities of Lynchburg to the east and Roanoke to the west.

The city covers an area of 6.81 square miles. The County's boundaries consist of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the west, the James River on the northeast and Smith Mountain Lake on the south. The area has a rolling to hilly terrain with elevations from a low of 800 feet above sea level, to a high of 4,200 feet.

Government »

Government policies are directed toward the economic and social development of the Bedford area. Government attitude toward business and industry is one of cooperation and support.

The City and County maintain independent governments. The City operates under a city manager form of government with City Council as the governing body. A Board of Supervisors governs the County and employs a County Administrator as chief administrative officer. Both governments operate under fiscally sound management, and both have Comprehensive Plans to monitor and guide development. The City and County participate in revenue sharing for economic development.

History »

Bedford County was formed in 1754 and named for the Fourth Duke of Bedford, a British government official. In 1782, the Town of Liberty (now City of Bedford) was established. Originally an agrarian-based economy, Bedford's industrial development began in 1880, and since that time, indus- trial growth has been consistent and often fostered by the involvement of local citizens. In the early 1980's, the city undertook ren- ovation of its historic downtown district and became one of Virginia's first Main Street Cities.