Rep. Bobby Scott presents Hampton with $1.38 million for flood projects
U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott recently handed over a $1,383,069 grant to Hampton officials aimed at bolstering the city's resilience against flooding. The grant is intended to assist in purchasing properties in flood-prone areas to mitigate repetitive losses. Scott expressed his gratitude towards Hampton for their efforts in enhancing the city's resilience, stating, "We appreciate the good work of Hampton, making Hampton a more resilient place to live."The city of Hampton plans to acquire properties voluntarily as they become available for sale in flood-prone regions, with a...
Budget Discussions Take Center Stage at Hampton City Council Meetings
Budget discussions will dominate City Council meetings in Hampton on Wednesday, as various topics related to finances and taxation are set to be addressed. The afternoon work session will feature briefings and discussions on key financial matters, including the Hampton City Schools budget and a request to increase the service district tax for Elizabeth Lakes. Additionally, the City Manager's Recommended Budget will be a focal point for council members.During the evening meeting, the Finance Committee will present an analysis of the proposed real estate tax rate, aligning...
Proposed regulations for short-term rentals discussed
A new proposal for how to decide where short-term rentals (like Airbnb and VRBO) can be located in Hampton was discussed at the Planning Commission on Thursday. The proposal would also streamline the process for approving locations.According to the Hampton city officials, "Within each zone, only 1% of the residences could be short-term rentals." The requirement for separation distances of 500 feet apart, unless they are side-by-side, is aimed at limiting the impact on neighborhoods. This measure is designed so that "the rental businesses would not overwhelm a street or...
- How many companies were inspected by the FDA in City of Hampton in Q4 2023?
- Proclamation Ride and Words on Wheels to Highlight National Bike Month in Hampton
- Planning Commission Considers Zoning Amendments and Short-Term Rental Briefing
- Hampton's Emergency Management Office Hosts Community Preparedness Day Ahead of Hurricane Season
- Ella Fest Returns to Newport News
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Join the Party for the Grand Re-opening of the Hampton Carousel
The long-awaited reopening of Hampton’s historic carousel is set for Saturday, March 23. "It’s a day of fun for families of all ages, as we celebrate the repair of a Hampton icon, the location of family outings, dates, marriage proposals and other cherished memories," said an unnamed spokesperson. The carousel, built in 1920 and originally part of the Buckroe Beach Amusement Park, was disassembled in 1985 and restored to its original beauty between 1988 and 1991. It is one of only 170 antique wooden merry-go-rounds still existing in the United States."It was closed in the...
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Hampton Selected for Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities Initiative
Hampton has been chosen as one of 25 U.S. cities to participate in the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities initiative, Mayor Donnie Tuck announced today. The initiative, funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, aims to support local sustainability projects and drive economic growth in communities."Hampton has worked with Bloomberg Philanthropies through a multitude of the organization’s programs, and each one has proven beneficial to our city,” Mayor Tuck stated. “We are innovative and data-driven in our efforts to reduce damage from flooding, especially in historically...
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Hampton Residents Encouraged to Provide Input on City Budget and Projects
Hampton residents and stakeholders have until March 20 to participate in the city's unique budget process by providing their input online. The opportunity allows individuals to contribute their ideas before the city budget for Fiscal Year 2025 is drafted.City Manager Mary Bunting emphasized the importance of community engagement in the budgeting process, stating, "Take advantage of the chance to share your thoughts and help shape your community."To facilitate further discussion and address questions, Bunting will host a Facebook Live session on March 12 at 6:30 p.m. on...
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Significant Enhancements to the Toll Relief Program in Hampton Roads
The Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC) has announced significant enhancements to the Toll Relief Program in the Hampton Roads region, with a focus on expanding financial assistance to a wider group of residents.According to the ERC, the annual individual income threshold for eligibility has been raised from $50,000 to $65,000. This increase aims to make the program more inclusive and accessible to a larger number of individuals in need of toll relief.In addition to the income threshold adjustment, the maximum number of discounted trips available to participants has been...
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Friends' 2024 Pinwheels for Prevention Garden Dedication Set to Raise Awareness in Portsmouth
Friends' 2024 Pinwheels for Prevention Garden Dedication, scheduled for April 11, 2024, is poised to be a significant event in Portsmouth as the community comes together to support families and advocate for children's well-being. The event aims to raise awareness and rally community members around the cause of preventing child abuse.The annual Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign serves as a symbol and call to action for positive change. It represents a collective effort to provide a safe and nurturing environment for all children in Portsmouth, protecting them from harm and...
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Downtown and Midtown Tunnel Lane Closure Schedule
In a recent Traffic Advisory for March 1, 2024, the Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC) has announced significant lane closures for the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels in the upcoming week. The closures are subject to change based on weather conditions.According to the advisory, the I-264 East Downtown Tunnel will experience alternating lane closures eastbound on multiple days from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning. Additionally, there will be further closures on Friday, March 8, with the eastbound tunnel closing from 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. the next day. The westbound Downtown...
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Early crime data for 2024 shows positive news, police chief tells City Council
Hampton City Council received encouraging news regarding crime statistics for the year 2024 in a recent session where Police Chief Jimmie Wideman presented some early figures. Wideman highlighted the department's strategic approach to crime prevention, stating, "We have consistently maintained details where the highest concentration of people are and where data shows crime is most likely to occur." This targeted strategy has already shown promising results, with reductions in various criminal activities.Wideman revealed that from January 1 to February 27, 2024, there have...
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Mayor Jones Prepares to Deliver Inaugural State of the City Address
Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones is gearing up to present his inaugural State of the City address on Tuesday, March 5 at the Freeman Center Field House on the campus of Christopher Newport University. The theme for this year's event is "Building Forward," where Mayor Jones will reflect on recent city achievements and outline future plans and projects."When I ran for mayor, I asked the citizens of Newport News to 'Build with Me,' and they gave me the incredible responsibility and privilege to serve our city," expressed Mayor Phillip Jones. "I am proud of the projects and...
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Newport News Launches Bonus Program to Attract CDL Drivers
Newport News City Manager Alan K. Archer announced the launch of the “Breakthrough Bonus” program, offering up to $5,750 in tiered bonuses for individuals hired into full-time positions requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Archer stated, “The innovative Breakthrough Bonus program addresses gaps and fills critical positions. Our hope is that the talented employees we attract through the initiative will be integral parts of Team Newport News for years to come.”Employees hired into CDL-required positions will receive bonuses over four years, starting with $500...
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Newport News One City Marathon Races Ready for Exciting Weekend
The 10th annual Newport News One City Marathon Weekend, presented by Newport News Shipbuilding, is set to take place this Saturday and Sunday with races, celebrations, and activities for everyone."We are thrilled to see the increased participation this year with registration up 25% over last year and runners joining from 36 states, Washington D.C., Canada, and Mexico," shared the event organizers.Fans are eagerly anticipating the competition, especially the elite field vying for the Half Marathon Title. Among them are the 2023 Women’s Half Marathon Champion, Audrey...