Botetourt County, Virginia – June 6, 2026 – Saturday afternoon, Apex Clean Energy representatives were joined by state and local officials, business leaders, landowners, and supporters to commemorate the construction of Rocky Forge Wind, the Commonwealth’s first land-based wind farm. Following a program during which state and local officials highlighted the project’s economic impact on the region, attendees had the opportunity to sign their names on part of one of project’s 254-foot-long wind turbine blades that will soon rise above North Mountain, northeast of Eagle Rock. “As a homegrown Virginia-based company, we couldn’t be prouder to see Rocky Forge Wind under construction as Virginia’s first wind project,” said Ken Young, CEO of Apex. “This project represents years of diligent effort and a coordinated team approach by the Apex team, our landowner partners, our construction team, and supporters throughout Botetourt County and the Commonwealth. It takes a strong team to do this work, and we’re grateful for the long-term partnerships that made today possible.” Continue reading

(VDOT) As part of the Rocky Forge Wind Farm project in Eagle Rock, oversized loads will be traveling northbound and southbound along the Route 220 corridor in Botetourt County. Beginning Monday, April 6 through the end of May, drivers can expect daily oversized loads to be travelling on two different routes between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday: Northbound Interstate 81 to exit 150 and onto northbound Route 220 in Daleville to Eagle Rock Northbound I-81 to I-64 onto southbound Route 220 through Iron Gate to Eagle Rock In addition, Route 622 (Dagger Springs Road) will be closed from its intersection with Route 694 (Gala Loop Road) for approximately four miles as oversized loads travel to their destination. Drivers and residents along the roadway can expect periodic closures on Route 622 (Dagger Springs Road) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and after 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Watch message boards for the most up to date information.   These oversized loads average up to 245 feet in length and approximately 14.5 feet wide and will be accompanied by state police escorts. Drivers should use caution and slow down when approaching or encountering these oversized loads as spacing adjustments on the roadway may be necessary. Delays in travel are expected so plan travel accordingly. For the latest road conditions in Virginia, use VDOT’s 511 free mobile app or the 511 website which can help travelers plan their routes accordingly.  

Construction on the 78 MW Rocky Forge Wind project is advancing this Spring. We are committed to keeping you informed and minimizing disruptions as we move forward with this exciting milestone. Project Timeline and Key Activities: Road Improvements: Over the next few weeks, improvements will be made to Gala Loop Road and Dagger Springs Road to accommodate construction traffic and ensure safe access to the site. Specific locations and timelines include: Gala Loop Road: will remain open for use on the north portion to Route 220. The south portion to Route 220 will be closed, however, access to the Galatia Evangelical Presbyterian Church will remain open during the closure. Dagger Springs: will remain open for use; however, isolated areas of single-lane use will be encountered. Turbine Deliveries: Expected between March and May 2026. Commercial Operation Date (COD): Fall 2026. Site Access and Safety Notice: The Rocky Forge Wind project site is strictly closed to the public for safety reasons. Only authorized personnel and contractors are permitted on-site. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to this policy to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the project. As construction progresses, our website may be updates with further updates on road closures and other construction activities. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we invite you to share any concerns or questions through our online contact form. We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we bring this project to life. Throughout the construction process, we will take necessary precautions to mitigate any inconveniences and remain available to address any questions or concerns you may have. Thank you for your support and understanding. Sincerely, The Rocky Forge Wind Team