The Danville Industrial Development Authority(IDA) has approved funds for a space that they hope will lead to more development in the River District. On Tuesday, the IDA approved authorizing a contract with CPL Architecture, Engineering, and planning for $240k.

The funds will be used for architecture, engineering, and development services at 231 Main Street. The site is the former location of Lou’s Antiques and is now being marketed as “The Bridge”.

The property has been identified as a redevelopment opportunity. The current concept for the site, known as “The Bridge,” includes food and beverage spaces, micro-retail business spaces, anchor tenant spaces, outdoor dining, plaza areas, landscaping, and related site amenities.

On Tuesday, the IDA also approved a new commercial tenant for Dan River Falls. The IDA approved a lease for Blue Cow Ice Cream, Co. for a portion of Unit 1 at 420 Memorial Drive, commonly known as the guard shack and clinic building at Dan River Falls. They will also have an ice cream truck.

Blue Cow is an Artisanal Ice Cream company that launched in Roanoke in 2017. They also have locations in Richmond, Virginia Beach and Fredericksburg.

The company will rent the space for just over $15k a year and will begin in June of 2027.