111 Franklin Plaza is located in the center of the Roanoke Valley of Virginia which is recognized nationally having earned its standing as one of the 10 best places in the US to raise a family. The combination of its education, superior quality of life and its business environment has contributed towards the Roanoke Valley to be ranked as one among the "three best small cities in the South" according to Money Magazine. With an emphasis on advanced technology, a skilled workforce provides the foundation for continued growth of this region. As a result of a business climate engineered to support productivity and profitability, Roanoke has attracted industry leaders such as General Electric, ITT, Norfolk Southern, Kroger Company, IBM, New York Life, Wachovia Bank and Allstate Insurance Company. This business friendly environment has the attention of manufacturers of transportation-related equipment, fiber optics and related electronics, telecommunication companies, food processing, plastics and other industries as well. Since 1992, nearly sixty relocations and expansions to Roanoke accounted for over $570 million in investment representing over 7,300 jobs. In 1999, Koyo Steering Systems of USA announced plans for a $38 million plant, and Innotech, a division of Johnson & Johnson, has announced it will build a $125 million visions products plant. After extensive site searches, other companies which have selected Roanoke include Maple Leaf Foods, First Citizens Bank, Dynax America, York International and Fleetwood Homes. Located mid-way between New York and Atlanta, a central location allows easy access to Roanoke by Interstates 81, 64 and 77 and by jet. The Roanoke Regional Airport is served by 4 major airlines, Delta, United, Northwest and US Airways. Nearly 100 arrivals and departures per day include non-stop or direct jet service to 15 major airports, 7 of which provide routine international connections. This location has excellent exposure to Interstate 581. The central business district (CBD) of Roanoke is typical of many central business districts, in that most of the structures are quite old, and the city blocks are densely developed. Many of the buildings were originally developed with storefronts at street level, and residential or office use above. Many of these buildings have, in the more recent past, undergone renovation. With more than 280,000 people living in the Roanoke Valley, it is the largest metro area in western Virginia and serves as the commercial, medical, cultural and retail center for a population of more than 1,000,000. In addition to prime real estate, low costs, a strong labor pool, low crime, arts and culture, this region also offers professional and college sports teams coupled with outstanding outdoor recreation. Market Overview | Roanoke Attributes | Amenities Building Specifications | Sample Floor Plan | Space Availability | Site Plan Transportation | Home Page | Crown Properties