Town of Kilmarnock Acquires Strategic Downtown Gateway Property

Acquisition supports long-range planning, economic development, and future opportunities for downtown Kilmarnock.

KILMARNOCK, VA — October 26, 2026 — The Town of Kilmarnock has acquired 1 South Main Street, a strategically located property at the intersection of Routes 3 and 200, marking an important investment in the Town’s long-term vision for downtown Kilmarnock.

“This acquisition reflects Town Council’s shared commitment to making thoughtful, long-term investments in Kilmarnock’s future,” said Mayor Shawn Donahue. “I was particularly pleased to see Council members Bedell, Cunningham, Cooper, Nunn, Scott, and Vice Mayor Umphlett unanimously support moving forward with the purchase. Their unified vote reflects a common vision for strengthening our downtown while preserving opportunities that will benefit Kilmarnock for generations to come.”

The property, home to Stewart’s Auto, occupies a prominent location at one of downtown’s primary gateways. The Town will assume the existing three-year lease without changes to its terms, allowing Stewart’s Auto to continue operating under its current agreement.

“Stewart’s Auto is a valued member of Kilmarnock’s business community, and we recognize the important services it provides to our residents and visitors,” said Town Manager Susan Cockrell. “We are committed to honoring the existing lease and working cooperatively with the business. We also recognize the importance of retaining valued service providers in Kilmarnock and are working with Stewart’s Auto to explore local relocation opportunities at the end of the lease.”

“Strong downtowns don’t happen by accident. They are shaped by thoughtful investment, intentional planning, and a commitment to creating places where businesses and communities thrive,” said Sharon Phillips, Economic Development Coordinator for the Town of Kilmarnock. “The acquisition of 1 South Main Street presents a unique opportunity to reimagine one of Kilmarnock’s most visible gateways — connecting people to our downtown businesses, creating a more welcoming and pedestrian-friendly experience, and strengthening Kilmarnock’s position as the economic and commercial hub of the lower Northern Neck.”

The acquisition comes at an important time as Kilmarnock undertakes several coordinated planning initiatives, including a Business District Revitalization study and an update to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan.

Supported by a $75,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, the revitalization study is exploring opportunities to strengthen two downtown blocks bounded by South Main Street, West Church Street, School Street, and Irvington Road. The study examines opportunities involving vacant and underutilized properties, building improvements, public spaces, pedestrian connections, wayfinding, and infrastructure.

An additional $20,000 in funding from Virginia Housing, provided through the Northern Neck Planning District Commission, supports a related study exploring potential mixed-use housing opportunities.

The Town’s Comprehensive Plan update will help establish a long-range framework for land use, development, infrastructure, and community priorities over the next 10 to 20 years.

While no firm plans have been established for the property, potential future uses could include visitor information, public amenities, flexible gathering spaces, and improved pedestrian connections to nearby businesses and attractions.

The acquisition reflects the Town’s commitment to responsible long-range planning, supporting existing businesses, and exploring opportunities that will strengthen Kilmarnock for generations to come.