Botetourt wind farm finally rises, Autumn’s Law delayed, and Roanoke Valley foster care crisis deepens — WFIR News Express 2/17/26

On this Tuesday, February 17, 2026 edition of WFIR News Express, Virginia’s first wind farm begins taking shape in Botetourt County after a decade of delays. The Rocky Forge Wind project will place 13 turbines on North Mountain, with opponents raising concerns about tourism impacts and wildlife, while developers point to safety and local tax revenue — and Google is set to purchase the power.In Richmond, a cyberbullying crackdown tied to the death of Roanoke County student Autumn Bushman hits a snag, as lawmakers vote to delay “Autumn’s Law” for further review. We also track political fallout as Rep. John McGuire announces a reelection bid while proposed redistricting could dramatically reshape Virginia’s 5th District ahead of an April referendum.Plus, a Northern Virginia congressman calls for testimony from a British official after additional Epstein files are released, and Roanoke police arrest a suspect accused of impersonating an officer during a home invasion. We also break down the debate over immigration enforcement rhetoric after Virginia ends formal state cooperation with ICE, with WFIR political analyst Chapman Rackaway urging careful historical comparisons.Locally, new reporting highlights Roanoke’s foster care crisis — the second-highest rate in Virginia — with agencies urgently seeking more foster families. We also have a Town of Bedford comprehensive plan update, winter running health guidance, a Lunar New Year celebration returning to Roanoke this weekend, and Virginia Tech’s Hokie House securing its building after 60 years on Main Street. We’ll also note renewed attention on library funding during Library Lovers Month and a sports note as Faith Christian School hosts back-to-back state quarterfinal basketball games.That’s the latest from WFIR News Express.