Posted inEconomy

Danville’s revitalization plan faced skepticism, but now it’s a model for other communities. Here’s how the city did it.

Danville’s Industrial Development Authority bought old, empty buildings — sometimes at above-market prices — with the goal of selling them to developers. The strategy drew some criticism over the years, but local leaders believe it’s paid off in increased tax revenues and new vitality for previously depressed areas of the city.