Stone tweaks project to accommodate bigger brew tanks, solar panels, pedestrian bridge

McIntyre said Stone has requested a handful of changes to the project since it was designed. To accommodate bigger brewing tanks, the height of the ceiling has been raised from 25 feet to 32 feet, structural upgrades were made to the foundation, and there have been upgrades to the building’s mechanical and electrical systems.

Stone also requested an upgraded roof capable of supporting solar panels. Additionally, the company is now building a parking lot across Gillies Creek and bringing in what McIntyre described as a “fairly decent sized” reclaimed pedestrian bridge.

Stone also submitted plans to tweak the outside of the building.

“They like the 100-year-old warehouse factory look,” he said. “So they’re trying to fit that in. It’s very much in their style. They love reclaimed items.”

So far, the approved change orders from Stone add up to $2 million. Stone is covering those costs and they will not affect the final cost of the project to the city, which is set at $23 million.

Julious P. Smith Jr., the chairman of the EDA, said the changes all appeared positive.

“I guess the takeaway is that Stone has increased their commitment to the city and we will have a better facility,” he said.

State and local officials announced the economic development deal in October, calling it a major win for the city’s East End and riverfront, as well as Virginia’s growing craft beer industry. Stone’s brewing facility is expected to produce beer for the company’s markets east of the Mississippi River.