Blackstone area restaurants and others who could benefit from an upcoming major military exercise at Fort Pickett are being encouraged to stock-up and brace themselves for increased business.
The training event is called “Bold Quest” by the Virginia Army National Guard’s 329th Regional Support Group. It’s scheduled to run from Sept. 6th-30th.
More than 800 military personnel from more than 30 different countries are expected. While that total number of troops isn’t excessive for Pickett, reports indicate that many will be lodging locally and relying on local establishments for some of their meals.
One source said the exercise, which has been conducted in recent years at other locations, has been known to generate millions for local economies. The Blackstone Chamber of Commerce recently sent an email to their members, saying, “There may be an increased demand for restaurant/food/beverage and/or lodging services in the surrounding areas.”
A source familiar with the scope of Bold Quest has told the Courier-Record that event planners want the community prepared and not “overwhelmed.”
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