Good morning, Lynchburg.

Crews are putting finishing touches on the new amphitheater on Jefferson Street as construction wraps up while community excitement grows for concerts starting May 8 and an open house on March 14 for job, sponsorship, and volunteer opportunities.

A new 765-kilovolt transmission line will span 115 miles from Joshua Falls to Yeat — community meetings are planned before finalizing the route for completion in 2029.

The $1 billion project will boost grid reliability amid rising electricity demand.

The Amherst County School Board approved its fiscal year 2026-27 budget on March 5, which includes a 3% pay raise for all school division employees following an all-day discussion.

Virginia State Police brought K9 Jax to the University of Lynchburg on Wednesday to show students how the dog helps find explosives — a skill that supports safety measures, and professor Daniel Murphy said the demonstration adds real-world experience to classroom lessons.

Nelson County officials said overflows at the Wintergreen Wastewater Treatment Plant have released partially treated sewage into nearby waterways during peak usage times (since winter 2024–2025) and that extra water testing by the environmental department will guide repairs.

Residents are seeing early spring signs as cherry trees burst into bloom along downtown Lynchburg's Fifth and Church streets.

The official first day of spring is March 20 and the change brings refreshing color to the community.

The Central Virginia Health District confirmed three rabid animals were reported in Campbell and Bedford Counties between March 6 and March 9; a raccoon was found on Crestview Drive in Forest and two skunks appeared on Suburban and Bethany Roads (none exposed humans).

Downtown Lynchburg has a rezoning approved by the Planning Commission for a project by Dunbar LLC (turning two warehouses into 28 apartments) that will go before City Council on April 14.

Megyn Tweedy of Amherst County High School won the state title in the pole vault by clearing 10 feet to beat Atlee’s Alex Brown at the state meet.

Adam Faucett Live at Trailhead

6 p.m. — Trailhead — Ticket info TBA — Enjoy a night of soulful music featuring Adam Faucett after his three-year hiatus in Richmond.

SciFest ’26 Pi Fun Run

9-11 a.m. — Randolph College — Free entry — Celebrate Pi Day with a fun 3.14 mile run/walk at Main Hall and enjoy the spirit of community and science.

2026 Empowering Female Veterans Gathering

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — American Legion Post 16 — Free entry — Focus on health and wholeness at this inspiring event for female Veterans.

Hacksburg at Lynchburg Maker Faire

11 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Randolph College — Free entry — Celebrate creativity and hands-on making at the most fabulous show and tell on Earth.

The History of the Churches in Lynchburg

2-3 p.m. — Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care — Free entry — Delve into the rich history of Lynchburg’s churches while enjoying complimentary refreshments.

HOPEx 2026: Hope in Action

Join Lynchburg Beacon of Hope for HOPEx, the 5th annual evening of live storytelling themed “Hope in Action,” featuring local speakers and Lynchburg City Schools alumni making an impact in the community. Emceed by Executive Director Leidra McQueen with music by Flat Five Jazz, the event highlights stories of everyday hope while supporting scholarships, internships, and post-graduation opportunities for Lynchburg’s youth.

Science Day for 3rd-6th Graders

11:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Michels Athletic Center, Randolph College — Registration required — Engage in hands-on science activities designed for children in grades 3-6.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Bella Vista

11 AM – 4 PM — Bella Vista Hotel & Suites — Price TBA — Delight in a festive Easter brunch featuring a bountiful buffet and chef-carved specialties.