introduction: Hampton Roads Governments
Chesapeake
Hampton
James City County
Mayor Richard W. West
Mayor Donnie R. Tuck
Chairman Michael J. Hipple
“Leaders in each municipality will likely proclaim their unique and rich contribution to our region. Chesapeake is no different. We are proud of our history and our place in the evolution of Hampton Roads. But if we are ever going to realize our enormous potential as a region and acknowledge that we need one another we cannot truly be economically competitive. We must continue our joint effort.”
“Hampton’s motto, “From the Sea to the Stars,” showcases how our historic assets continue to reflect our life in Hampton today. Seafood and boating remain local businesses and recreation, and we have repeatedly been named one of the most affordable beach towns in America. Stars were once used by sailors for navigation, and today represent our military at Langley Air Force Base as well as NASA’s mission to Mars. However, beyond its literal meaning, “From the Sea to the Stars” symbolizes the vast diversity of our people, businesses, neighborhoods, music, recreation and restaurants. For 411 years, we have reached for the stars — from our 100% accredited school system to the 18 times we have been named a Top 10 Digital City. Hampton is the region’s best place to live, work and play”.
“Whether you are looking for great schools, outdoor adventure, culinary delights or history, you can find it all in James City County. From the time settlers landed on our shores in 1607 to form the first permanent English colony in America until today, James City County remains a premier community in which to live, work and play. We take pride in our exceptional public services, high quality education and fiscally efficient government. We are committed to developing a sustainable longer term water supply and expanding and diversifying our local economy. From multi-million dollar companies to small start-ups, we are open for business. James City County is leading the way and we would love to have you stop by and see for yourself.”
Isle of Wight County
Newport News
“Isle of Wight County is home to over 37,000 residents and has long been known for its Local Roots and Global Reach. Located in the heart of Hampton Roads, the County provides an excellent quality of life that balances rural tranquility and easy access to urban conveniences We are proud of our commitment to providing world-class educational opportunities and vocational resources focused on preparing a sustainable workforce for the future to complement our business attraction and retention efforts. Residents enjoy the natural beauty of waterfront and rural vistas and regularly hosts visitors from all over the world. We invite you to visit us, see the natural beauty of our community, and you will find that we are indeed a Community of CHOICE that CARES.”
“Over the past year, our community has come together like never before to battle the coronavirus. Throughout the pandemic, Newport News has remained a city of opportunity – where technology and innovation intersect, international commerce abounds, and arts and culture bring about global understanding. We are proud to be a city where businesses of all sizes can launch and expand, relocate or make a capital investment. Our schools offer more Advanced Placement courses than any other school district or private school on the Peninsula and utilize STEM practices and cutting-edge curriculums to develop tomorrow’s leaders. We invest in our businesses and residents so each person can realize their dreams in our great city. We are home to Newport News Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country, and 36 other unique parks with breathtaking views. In Newport News, you can recharge and reconnect while watching aircraft carriers, submarines and other impressive vessels travel down the Hampton Roads Harbor. Our historic city by the sea is a great place to live, work, relax and do business”.
Franklin
Mayor Frank Rabil “Home to just over 8,000 residents the small but resilient City of Franklin is driven and focused on diversifying our local economy. Located between two major metro areas, the City of Franklin provides convenient access to Highway 58 and Interstate 95. The City’s well positioned location makes a trip to the city, the beach or the mountains a breeze. We invite you to come enjoy our local charm, explore our scenic rivers and experience our business friendly environment.”
Gloucester County
Chairman Robert J. Orth
“Gloucester County continues to grow in ways that are both attractive to its residents and people that want to visit that highlight its history in the growth of our nation. With the addition of a federal park recognizing the location of Chief Powhatan’s primary tribal location, and a new state park, Machicomoco, set to open in 2021, and the many other historical and recreational opportunities, Gloucester is truly “the Land of the Life Worth Living”. 6 • Coastal Virginia 2021-22
Chairman Joel C. Acree
Norfolk
Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander “For more than 300 years we have served as Coastal Virginia’s cultural and economic center, mixing ideas, connecting people and creating new businesses and experiences. For more than 100 years, Naval Station Norfolk has served as a critical partner for the City of Norfolk and we are the location of choice for facilities supporting operations for every branch of our armed services and NATO. Norfolk is a regional leader in health care and technical education. Transformational projects including The Main, Waterside District, Norfolk Premium Outlets, the Glass Light Hotel and IKEA are attracting new visitors who are excited to experience Norfolk. Spend the day at Harbor Park enjoying a Norfolk Tides game, or an evening at the Scope enjoying Norfolk Admirals hockey. Our evolving waterfront city is among the most connected cities in the country. We have passenger rail that connects us to other major cities on the east coast, the only light rail system in Virginia which connects our diverse and unique neighborhoods, an airport less than 20 minutes from our downtown that has direct connections to the west coast, and a cruise terminal steps from our city hall that connects travelers to Cuba. We are home to colleges and universities, world class art, theater, festivals, opera, The Virginia Zoo, Norfolk Botanical Garden, more than seven miles of beachfront, a growing innovative economy, and a resilient spirit that is creating the coastal community of the future.”
Mayor McKinley L. Price, DDS
Poquoson
Mayor Gordon C. Helsel Jr.
“Poquoson’s unsurpassed quality of life includes an enviable combination of outstanding schools, a civically-engaged citizenry, and a dedicated group of City employees. Our citizens enjoy a variety of shopping and dining opportunities in a conveniently accessible business-friendly corridor and the City is home to excellent recreational facilities. Given these attributes, our City is the perfect place to live, play and work. Encompassed by 87 miles of beautiful shoreline, Poquoson honors its rich coastal history while moving resiliently forward to a bright future for its community of 12,500 residents. We encourage you to visit us soon and learn more about this jewel of Hampton Roads.”
