Master-Planned Momentum: Regent’s Build Powers the Centerville Strategic Growth Area

By Eric S. Cavallo, Editor-in-Chief
Hampton Roads Construction News Network

VIRGINIA BEACH — Regent University has broken ground on a new Athletic & Fitness Center, marking a defining moment in both campus expansion and the broader evolution of Virginia Beach’s Centerville Strategic Growth Area. The October 10 ceremony, attended by city and university leaders, underscored more than institutional pride—it reflected a deliberate convergence between private investment and public planning, between a university’s mission and a city’s long-term vision.

For Regent, the project is the fruit of what officials call “years of prayer, vision, and dedication.” It symbolizes the university’s effort to link physical well-being and spiritual development within a single architectural statement. The facility will house multi-sport courts, strength and conditioning spaces, and training areas adaptable for intramurals—an environment designed to serve both competitive athletics and the broader student body. Its value, administrators say, lies as much in what it represents as in what it contains.

The City of Virginia Beach’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan envisions Centerville as an education-oriented growth district anchored by Regent University and the Christian Broadcasting Network. Within that framework, the new complex advances a clear civic goal: channeling development into designated nodes where infrastructure, employment, and academic life can reinforce one another. By building inward—within an existing Strategic Growth Area—rather than outward into rural tracts, Regent is giving physical shape to the city’s principle of planned, compact growth.

City planners have long described Centerville as a corridor where faith-based education, technology, and community services could coexist in a master-planned setting. Regent’s 31-acre athletics expansion, part of its larger “Royals Rise” initiative, turns that concept into practice. The investment creates an activity hub that will generate daily foot traffic, support nearby businesses, and encourage complementary public improvements along Centerville Turnpike—precisely the self-sustaining ecosystem the plan seeks to cultivate.

Beyond its planning alignment, the project carries economic weight. Each construction phase adds local jobs and contracts in a sector now defined by cautious optimism and supply-chain volatility. For Virginia Beach, the expansion reaffirms confidence in the inland portion of the city as a growth engine, balancing the resort area’s tourism economy with year-round institutional stability. The synergy of education and enterprise offers a counterweight to cyclical industries and helps retain graduates who might otherwise leave Hampton Roads.

The university has pledged careful stewardship during construction—attention to stormwater management, pedestrian safety, and environmental design. Those commitments mirror the city’s emphasis on sustainability within SGAs, where new development must protect surrounding neighborhoods and watershed systems. Each permit, grading plan, and inspection sequence will test how effectively private builders can align with public performance standards while maintaining schedule and scope.

What distinguishes this project is not its scale but its symbolism. In an era when higher-education institutions face enrollment pressures and fiscal strain, Regent’s investment signals confidence—in its mission, its students, and its city. The Athletic & Fitness Center stands as both a tangible asset and a civic statement: that disciplined planning and shared vision still have a place in how Virginia builds.

With site work underway and completion targeted within two years, the structure will soon rise as a visible marker of Centerville’s transformation from concept to community. When the doors open, Virginia Beach will not simply gain a new facility; it will gain a proof point that its comprehensive plan can, in fact, guide real projects from blueprint to reality.

About HRCNN

The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) delivers fact-checked, professionally edited coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development across the Commonwealth. Founded under Earthly Infrastructure®, HRCNN serves as Virginia’s independent source for insight into how policy, planning, and private enterprise shape the built environment—keeping the region informed, prepared, and committed to building safe, building strong, and building smart.

Blueprint for Change: How Three Code Reforms Will Reshape the Way Virginia Builds

By Staff Writer
Hampton Roads Construction News Network

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia’s construction and regulatory landscape is entering a defining era. With the 2021 Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) now the single enforceable standard for all new permits, the Commonwealth’s builders, architects, and inspectors have crossed a clear threshold. Gone are the days of mixing provisions from older editions; in their place stands a uniform framework demanding both technical precision and code literacy—the ability to interpret and apply the evolving rules that shape the built environment.

This shift is more than procedural. It marks a cultural moment for Virginia’s building community—one that calls for fluency, coordination, and an understanding of why regulation matters as much as how it’s written. Three major reform efforts now underway will test those very skills, redefining how projects are designed, approved, and delivered statewide.

The first centers on Virginia’s single-stair debate, a discussion reshaping how cities balance safety and housing density. Under current code, multifamily buildings in the R-2 occupancy classification may use a single internal stairway only up to three stories. Legislation passed in 2024—Senate Bill 195 and House Bill 368—has directed the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to study whether that height limit could safely expand to as many as six stories under enhanced safety measures.

The advisory group assigned to the study includes building officials, fire marshals, architects, and code professionals. Among them is Eric S. Cavallo, founder and chief executive officer of Earthly Infrastructure®, and parent company of HRCNN. As a licensed commercial building contractor and ICC member, Cavallo offers practical perspective on how such a change could influence design logistics, construction sequencing, and emergency response.

Supporters argue that allowing taller single-stair buildings could unlock new housing types, reduce costs, and promote walkable, space-efficient infill—particularly in urban areas constrained by lot size. Opponents caution that any increase must come with expanded fire protection, smoke-control systems, and stricter material requirements to preserve life safety. The deliberations now unfolding will determine whether Virginia joins other jurisdictions experimenting with this model, or holds firm to its existing limit.

While that debate continues, the 2021 USBC is already reshaping the technical backbone of every project. The updated code raises the bar on performance: attic insulation requirements have climbed from R-49 to R-60, most interior lighting must now include dimmers or occupancy sensors, and exterior fixtures require automatic shut-off and moisture protection. For mechanical systems, the rules are just as demanding—all ductwork must undergo verified leakage testing, and ventilation systems must pass performance evaluation before occupancy is granted.

These aren’t optional upgrades; they are built-in expectations. The result is a construction environment that rewards early planning, documentation, and cross-disciplinary coordination. Compliance can no longer wait for the final inspection—it must be embedded from the first drawing to the last punch-list item.

Meanwhile, DHCD is also looking inward—examining how the building process itself can be made more efficient. A second reform initiative is focused on streamlining permits and inspections. Proposals under discussion include concurrent plan reviews, standardized inspection sequences, and clearer documentation requirements for Certificates of Occupancy.

The aim is to reduce administrative lag and bring consistency across Virginia’s jurisdictions without diluting oversight. For contractors and developers alike, those improvements could prove as impactful as any technical code amendment, cutting delays that often stall projects for weeks or months.

Together, these three efforts—egress reform, performance enhancement, and process modernization—form a convergence of change that demands close attention from every corner of the industry. The grace period for the 2018 USBC has expired, and the 2021 edition now governs every permit, review, and inspection. In this environment, code literacy is more than a professional credential; it is a business necessity. Those who understand the intent and application of each provision will be the ones who keep schedules intact, control costs, and ensure public safety in the process.

The message is clear: the rules are evolving, and Virginia’s builders must evolve with them. The industry’s future belongs to those who adapt early, advocate responsibly, and build with both precision and purpose.

About HRCNN

The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is Virginia’s independent source for news and analysis on construction, zoning, infrastructure, and regulatory development. Founded under Earthly Infrastructure®, HRCNN provides clear, fact-based coverage for contractors, developers, inspectors, and policymakers across the Commonwealth. By tracking DHCD advisory activity, code-cycle reforms, and enforcement trends, HRCNN helps ensure that the region’s building community stays informed, prepared, and committed to a safer, smarter built environment—one that keeps Virginia built safe and built strong.

Honored to Serve: My Term on the Virginia Beach BZA

By Eric S. Cavallo, Editor-in-Chief, Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)

In December 2024, I was appointed by City Council to serve on the Virginia Beach Board of Zoning Appeals. Over the past year, it has been my privilege to contribute to a body entrusted with upholding the integrity of our city’s zoning ordinances and ensuring that land use decisions are made fairly, transparently, and in accordance with Virginia law.

The Board’s authority, established under Virginia Code §15.2-2309, includes hearing requests for variances, deciding appeals, and interpreting the zoning ordinance when questions arise. Each matter brought before us carried weight: a homeowner seeking reasonable use of their property, a business pursuing investment, or a neighborhood voicing concerns about community character and safety. No case was ever abstract—each represented people, places, and outcomes that would leave a lasting impact on Virginia Beach.

During my service, I came to appreciate how deeply zoning decisions shape the life of a coastal city. Waterfront properties, setbacks, accessory structures, and redevelopment proposals all underscored the delicate balance between growth, resilience, and preserving the qualities that make Virginia Beach unique. The process required not only technical understanding but also a steady commitment to fairness, consistency, and respect for the law.

As my term concludes, it is with both gratitude and bittersweetness. My service on the Board of Zoning Appeals comes to an end not by choice, but by necessity, as my family and I relocate to Chesapeake. While it is difficult to step away from a role that has been meaningful and rewarding, I am proud of the work accomplished during my tenure and humbled to have had the opportunity to serve.

I extend my sincere thanks to City Council for entrusting me with this appointment, to my fellow Board members for their professionalism, and to the citizens of Virginia Beach for their engagement in the public process. Though this chapter of service in Virginia Beach closes, my commitment to building safe, resilient, and well-planned communities across Hampton Roads continues into the next chapter of my civic and professional journey.

About Eric S. Cavallo
Eric S. Cavallo is the founder and chief executive officer of Earthly Infrastructure® Building and Infrastructure Development Inc., a Virginia Licensed Contractor with a specialty in Commercial Building, and a member of the International Code Council. From December 2024 to November 2025, he served on the Virginia Beach Board of Zoning Appeals, helping to review and decide zoning variance requests under Virginia Code §15.2-2309. Cavallo also serves as an advisor to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, contributing to statewide stakeholder discussions on building code reform, including SB195 and the use of single-stair exits in R-2 occupancy structures.

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is a regional platform dedicated to providing accurate, timely, and builder-informed coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development across Coastal Virginia. Free, funded, and focused, HRCNN delivers reporting and commentary that supports transparent decision-making, resilient infrastructure, and responsible growth in Hampton Roads.

The Landing Hotel: Rivers Casino Portsmouth Expands Its Footprint

By HRCNN Staff Writer, Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Rivers Casino Portsmouth is moving forward with its most ambitious expansion yet: The Landing Hotel, an eight-story addition set to redefine the city’s entertainment and hospitality landscape.

Announced in May 2025 and backed by parent company Rush Street Gaming, the $65 million project is more than a hotel. It is the next stage in Portsmouth’s plan to anchor Victory Boulevard with a world-class entertainment district.

The Landing Hotel will feature 106 guest rooms, including 32 suites and two “super suites” offering more than 800 square feet. Plans also include a lobby reception, a ground-floor bar, and multiple executive boardrooms. Each element is designed to connect directly to the casino’s restaurants, gaming floor, and 25,000-square-foot Event Center.

Construction began in summer 2025, with completion expected in early 2027. In July, Rush Street Gaming selected Norfolk-based S.B. Ballard Construction Company as general contractor, ensuring the project would be led by a Hampton Roads firm with a record of managing complex commercial builds.

The project reflects years of groundwork. In 2020, Virginia’s General Assembly approved casino gaming in five cities. Portsmouth voters backed the measure that November, and Rivers Casino Portsmouth opened in January 2023 as the Commonwealth’s first permanent casino facility.

The Landing Hotel is the logical sequel. It will provide the overnight capacity needed to attract tourism dollars and strengthen Portsmouth’s competitive edge. That competition is pressing, as Norfolk advances its own permanent casino project and operates temporary facilities.

Rivers executives have said The Landing Hotel is both a hospitality upgrade and a strategic defense to maintain market share. Private financing underscores Rush Street Gaming’s confidence in Portsmouth’s entertainment economy, while avoiding public subsidy.

The hotel’s expanded meeting space and suites are designed to keep revenue on site, hosting concerts, conventions, and executive gatherings without losing visitors to hotels elsewhere in the region.

On November 29, 2025, the casino will showcase that vision when country music rising star Chase Matthew performs live at 8 p.m. in the Event Center. For guests, it will be a night of music. For developers, it will be proof of concept—the kind of programming The Landing Hotel is built to support when it opens in 2027.

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) provides accurate, builder-informed coverage of construction, zoning, and infrastructure across Coastal Virginia. Founded under Earthly Infrastructure®, HRCNN supports transparent decision-making, resilient infrastructure, and responsible growth.

Rivers Casino’s Big Night: Country Music, Construction, and the Coming Landing Hotel

By Eric S. Cavallo, Editor-in-Chief, Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — On November 29, 2025, Rivers Casino Portsmouth will host two storylines in one evening. Country artist Chase Matthew performs at 8 p.m. in the Event Center, while Earthly Infrastructure® and HRCNN document the site where the property’s first on-site hotel—The Landing Hotel Portsmouth—is planned.

The hotel advanced publicly on May 2, 2025, when Rivers Casino Portsmouth and parent company Rush Street Gaming announced plans to break ground in the summer. The project is framed as the next phase of the city’s entertainment district anchored along Victory Boulevard.

Plans call for an eight-story, privately funded build with a projected budget of about $65 million. The program includes 106 guest rooms—32 of them suites—with two larger “super suites,” and suites generally ranging from roughly 400 to 800+ square feet.

Concept materials emphasize a lobby-level reception area and bar, executive boardrooms, and direct connectivity to the casino’s existing restaurants, gaming floor, and event center, positioning the hotel to capture meeting and entertainment demand already on site.

Developers are targeting an opening in early 2027, consistent with a two-year delivery window for a mid-rise hotel adjacent to an active venue. The companies have cited construction mobilization beginning in summer 2025 and a privately financed approach to ownership and operations.

In July 2025, Rush Street Gaming selected Norfolk-based S.B. Ballard Construction Company as general contractor, moving the hotel from announcement toward execution with a Hampton Roads builder attached to the job.

The hotel follows years of groundwork: General Assembly authorization and local referendums in 2020 enabling casinos in five Virginia cities, voter approval in Portsmouth that November, and the January 23, 2023 opening of Rivers Casino Portsmouth as the Commonwealth’s first permanent casino facility.

Regional dynamics add urgency. With a competing project advancing in Norfolk—including interim facilities before a permanent casino—Rivers executives have positioned The Landing Hotel as a competitive necessity to grow overnight visitation and defend market share.

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is a regional news platform dedicated to delivering accurate, builder-informed reporting on construction, zoning, and infrastructure across Coastal Virginia. Founded under Earthly Infrastructure®, HRCNN provides timely coverage that supports transparent decision-making, resilient infrastructure, and responsible growth in Hampton Roads and beyond.

Lennar Homes’ Arrival Could Shift Housing Dynamics in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake

By HRCNN Staff Writer

In Virginia’s ever-evolving housing market, few names carry the national weight of Lennar Homes. The company’s potential entry into Virginia Beach and Chesapeake signals more than just another development cycle—it suggests a realignment of how Hampton Roads approaches growth, affordability, and neighborhood planning.

Lennar, one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, has built a reputation for creating expansive communities with a focus on efficiency, accessibility, and scale. Should their presence expand locally, residents and policymakers alike will face questions about the balance between supply and demand, zoning discipline, and infrastructure capacity.

Virginia Beach and Chesapeake are already grappling with significant housing pressures, including affordability concerns, shifting demographics, and the need to diversify housing stock. A Lennar-driven community, with its signature blend of suburban design and packaged amenities, could provide much-needed relief. Yet, as with any large-scale development, the impact on schools, traffic, and public utilities will need to be carefully assessed.

Contractors and subcontractors in the region stand to benefit from Lennar’s arrival. Local firms accustomed to delivering mid-scale residential work could see opportunities expand, as Lennar typically engages a broad network of trade partners. For Hampton Roads builders, the challenge will be to maintain quality and community integration at the pace Lennar is known for nationwide.

Equally important is how municipalities respond. Chesapeake, with its abundance of developable land, and Virginia Beach, with its careful land-use planning, will likely approach Lennar projects through different regulatory lenses. Planning commissions and zoning boards will be tasked with ensuring that Lennar’s footprint aligns with long-term comprehensive plans and neighborhood character.

For residents, the trade-offs will be tangible. On the one hand, new housing supply could stabilize prices and open doors for younger families eager to put down roots. On the other hand, rapid suburbanization carries risks for open space preservation, traffic congestion, and stormwater management—issues already pressing for coastal communities.

What makes Lennar’s potential entry most significant is scale. While local builders have sustained Hampton Roads’ housing market for decades, Lennar’s size and efficiency could accelerate growth beyond current expectations. Whether that growth strengthens the region’s resilience or strains its systems will depend on how city leaders, contractors, and residents manage the next chapter.

About HRCNN

The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is a regional news platform dedicated to providing timely, accurate, and in-depth coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development across Hampton Roads and Virginia. HRCNN serves as a trusted source for industry professionals and the public, ensuring transparency and insight into the forces shaping our built environment.

The Franklin Group: Setting the Standard for AMI Housing in Hampton Roads

By HRCNN Staff Writer

In Hampton Roads, the conversation around affordability and growth often circles back to one developer: The Franklin Group. Headquartered in Virginia Beach, the company has become a cornerstone in the region’s effort to deliver housing aligned with Area Median Income (AMI) benchmarks. By prioritizing communities that meet the needs of working families, seniors, and essential workers, The Franklin Group has redefined what leadership in housing looks like.

Since its founding in 2013, the company has rapidly scaled its development footprint, building thousands of units across Virginia and beyond. Yet it is in Hampton Roads where its impact is felt most deeply. The Franklin Group has pursued a deliberate strategy of tying rents to AMI levels, ensuring that the housing stock reflects the financial realities of the region’s workforce rather than pricing them out.

By HRCNN’s best projections, The Franklin Group has been directly responsible for creating at least 392 dedicated affordable units in Virginia Beach alone over the past decade. This figure includes landmark projects such as Price Street I and II, which collectively delivered more than 260 LIHTC-supported apartments, and the 925 Apartments I development, which added 128 homes serving households between 40 and 80 percent of AMI. Each of these projects has offered a lifeline to families navigating the widening gap between wages and housing costs.

Other developments, such as the Renaissance Apartments and potential additional phases of the 925 Military Highway community, suggest the actual total of affordable units may be higher. While full affordability breakdowns are not yet public, city approvals and financing structures point to hundreds more units in the pipeline, underscoring The Franklin Group’s continuing commitment to housing access in Hampton Roads.

What distinguishes the company’s work is not only the volume of units delivered but also the quality of community design. The Franklin Group consistently integrates green spaces, sustainable building standards, and thoughtful amenities into its projects, ensuring that affordability does not come at the expense of livability. This balance strengthens neighborhoods and supports long-term stability for residents.

In stark contrast, nonprofit housing organizations in the region—some of which have operated for three to four decades—have not produced even a fraction of these results. Despite receiving millions in taxpayer support, these groups often appear mired in a culture of bureaucracy and self-preservation. Too much emphasis has been placed on titles, organizational hierarchies, and maintaining grant pipelines rather than on measurable housing outcomes. For many critics, the internal culture of these nonprofits has shifted toward safeguarding prestige and administrative control, leaving responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars as a secondary concern.

The cultural differences between the two models are hard to miss. The Franklin Group operates with the urgency and accountability of a private developer, where success is measured in units delivered, communities stabilized, and families housed. Nonprofit developers, by contrast, too often measure success in press releases, board appointments, or the size of the next funding award. This divergence explains why, after decades of effort, nonprofits have yet to demonstrate the scale or efficiency of The Franklin Group.

As Hampton Roads continues to face rising housing costs and pressing questions of equity, The Franklin Group’s leadership provides a clear example of solutions in action. With hundreds of affordable units already delivered and more on the horizon, the company stands as a regional leader ensuring that housing in Hampton Roads remains accessible, stable, and resilient.

About HRCNN

The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) delivers timely, accurate, and in-depth coverage of construction, zoning, infrastructure, and housing across Virginia. By spotlighting the builders and policymakers shaping our communities, HRCNN serves as a trusted resource for industry professionals and the public alike.

Saltwater Intrusion Spurs Regional Action to Protect Virginia Beach’s Water Supply

By HRCNN Staff Writer, Eric S. Cavallo

Saltwater intrusion, long regarded as a quiet threat beneath the Coastal Plain, has moved to the forefront of public concern in Hampton Roads. For decades, heavy withdrawals have lowered groundwater levels across the region, allowing salty water from the coast to slowly press inland. The result is a creeping risk of contamination in aquifers that once provided reliable fresh water. Today, officials and contractors alike are treating the issue as an urgent challenge with long-term consequences.

Although Virginia Beach households receive most of their drinking water from Lake Gaston through a regional pipeline, the health of the aquifers beneath the city still matters greatly. Those underground reserves remain essential for private wells, agriculture, and industry. State officials caution that even if tap water is secure today, the resilience of the region tomorrow depends on keeping saltwater at bay. Protecting the aquifer, they say, is central to ensuring Hampton Roads can sustain growth without sacrificing its water security.

The most ambitious response so far has come from the Hampton Roads Sanitation District. Its Sustainable Water Initiative for Tomorrow, widely known as SWIFT, is designed to restore balance underground by taking highly treated wastewater, purifying it further to meet drinking water standards, and then returning it to the Potomac Aquifer. The process helps replenish pressure in the system, keeping saltwater from advancing and even slowing land subsidence that threatens roads, buildings, and utilities in low-lying communities.

Construction has been at the heart of the program. Firms including Garney Construction, MEB, Hazen & Sawyer, Tetra Tech, Carollo Engineers, and Crowder Construction have been responsible for everything from design to delivery. Their combined efforts represent one of the nation’s largest managed aquifer recharge programs. The scale is considerable: injection wells, advanced treatment trains, and continuous monitoring systems must all work in tandem to ensure that the project delivers safe water while stabilizing the aquifer.

At HRSD’s Nansemond Treatment Plant, Garney is leading the design-build team constructing a full-scale SWIFT facility. Hazen & Sawyer serves as overall program manager, guiding the multi-phase effort. Tetra Tech and Carollo Engineers are handling advanced treatment design, while MEB is engaged in critical construction roles. Crowder Construction, for its part, built the demonstration facility that proved the approach was viable. Each of these firms has contributed expertise that makes the program possible, and their work highlights the close partnership between public utilities and the private construction sector.

Meanwhile, state regulators continue to track conditions underground. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, working alongside the U.S. Geological Survey, monitors aquifer levels and saltwater movement to inform future permitting and planning. These data points shape the pace and scale of projects like SWIFT and provide policymakers with the evidence needed to justify major infrastructure investments.

For now, Virginia Beach residents can turn on their taps without worry. But the experts leading this effort agree that security depends on staying ahead of the threat. The SWIFT program, which is expanding across multiple facilities in Hampton Roads, is widely regarded as the region’s best defense against the slow but steady march of saltwater into fresh groundwater. It is a defense built not only on science, but also on the skill of the contractors and engineers who are turning plans into lasting infrastructure.

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN), powered by Earthly Infrastructure®, delivers accurate, timely, and in-depth coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development across Virginia. Serving both industry professionals and the public, HRCNN provides trusted reporting on the projects and policies that shape the future of our communities.

The Zoning Crossroads: How Virginia’s Growth is Testing the Boundaries of Local Power

By Earthly Infrastructure® HRCNN Staff Writer | September 2025

Zoning has long served as the gatekeeper of land use across Virginia—a mechanism through which communities shape growth, preserve identity, and define development priorities. Traditionally administered at the local level, zoning has reflected each locality’s goals, constraints, and planning philosophies.

But that autonomy is now being tested.

As the Commonwealth faces increasing pressure to expand housing access, accelerate clean energy deployment, and support high-capacity infrastructure, zoning decisions—once largely insulated from broader state policy—are drawing sharp scrutiny. Conflicts are emerging between local land use authority and statewide mandates, raising fundamental questions about how much discretion localities should retain when the stakes are regional, economic, and environmental.

Few elected officials have engaged these questions more directly than Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg, D-Henrico, one of the General Assembly’s most active voices in land use reform. Over the past two sessions, VanValkenburg has introduced legislation aimed at rebalancing Virginia’s traditional zoning structure with modern demands—from utility-scale solar siting to housing affordability and adaptive reuse of commercial property.

While many of these measures were met with resistance or tabled in committee, they represent a pivotal shift in the statewide conversation: Is local zoning authority sufficient to meet the moment?

To better understand that question, HRCNN reached out to Senator VanValkenburg’s office for comment on the growing tension between state policy goals and local land use control. His response underscores both the urgency of the issue and the complexity of navigating it within Virginia’s existing zoning framework:

“Virginia is on the precipice of an energy and housing crisis that will drastically impact the bottom line for middle and working class people. While monthly housing costs and demand have skyrocketed, our supply of available units has stagnated, pricing families out of their communities or forcing them to spend over half of their paycheck on housing alone. Likewise, the dramatic increase in data centers comes with increased energy usage and rising costs, putting a strain on our existing energy infrastructure.

There is a place for regulations and for public input in both sectors, however, restrictive local zoning ordinances and lengthy approval processes prevent us from expanding access to affordable housing and from advancing clean energy projects. We need solutions that will streamline local approval processes and reform restrictive zoning ordinances for energy and housing. Right now, we have gridlock and only those with the most connections and resources can navigate those processes successfully. The average Virginian can no longer afford to wait for localities to act.”

The Senator’s perspective reflects a broader debate now playing out across Virginia. Local governments rightly seek to protect quality of life, preserve open space, and manage growth in accordance with their comprehensive plans. But when zoning decisions—especially those involving renewable energy, infill housing, or accessory dwelling units—are used to block or delay progress, they can place the state’s environmental and economic goals at risk.

The case of solar development is particularly illustrative. Under the Virginia Clean Economy Act, the state is legally committed to achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050. Yet in counties such as Pittsylvania, Page, and others, local officials have used zoning authority to deny or restrict utility-scale solar installations. While these decisions may reflect legitimate local preferences, their cumulative impact could compromise the Commonwealth’s ability to meet its statutory energy targets.

The housing conversation follows a similar pattern. Many local zoning ordinances remain anchored in low-density, single-use zoning that discourages infill development or mixed-use conversions. Proposals to legalize accessory dwelling units (ADUs), streamline subdivision approvals, or allow by-right multifamily housing in commercial corridors often face strong political resistance—even as regional housing needs go unmet.

Senator VanValkenburg’s legislative proposals have attempted to thread a difficult needle: maintaining local flexibility while introducing state-level incentives or expectations. From nonbinding housing targets to legislation permitting by-right residential use in commercially zoned areas, his approach reflects a belief that zoning reform need not eliminate local discretion—but must guide it toward broader statewide outcomes.

Opposition has been sharp. Many local officials and civic organizations view these reforms as precursors to preemption. And in a Dillon Rule state like Virginia—where localities only have powers expressly granted by the General Assembly—the conversation around zoning reform is inherently shaped by constitutional limits, statutory authority, and intergovernmental trust.

Yet the stakes are clear. Inaction has consequences. A patchwork of local policies that restrict energy generation, prevent housing diversification, or limit infrastructure growth could jeopardize Virginia’s economic competitiveness, environmental goals, and long-term resilience.

Zoning boards and planning commissions now sit at the front lines of this policy shift. Their decisions—once confined to neighborhood compatibility and traffic impacts—are increasingly influencing state-level goals tied to emissions reduction, economic development, and housing access. As those decisions grow in consequence, so too must the frameworks that support them.

Whether Virginia chooses to modernize its zoning system or preserve its existing structure, one thing is certain: zoning is no longer a background process. It is a core policy tool that will shape the future of the Commonwealth—for better or for worse.

We Want Your Voice at the Table
Are you a planner, builder, policymaker, zoning official, or advocate with insight into land use policy in Virginia? We invite you to contribute to the conversation. Submit your article for consideration at: https://earthlyinfrastructure.com/hrcnn-submit-article

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is a Virginia-based policy and infrastructure media initiative powered by Earthly Infrastructure®. Our mission is to provide informed, professional coverage of land use decisions, stormwater policy, code reform, and public infrastructure challenges across the Commonwealth. HRCNN features original reporting, commentary, and interviews with civic leaders, planners, contractors, and policymakers shaping the future of Virginia’s built environment.

Legal Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Zoning authority in Virginia is governed by Virginia Code § 15.2-2280 et seq., which outlines the powers granted to localities regarding land use regulation. Readers are encouraged to consult with legal counsel or municipal officials when interpreting or applying zoning laws to specific situations. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Earthly Infrastructure®, HRCNN, or any affiliated organizations.

Pembroke Mall Transforms into Pembroke Square: A New Chapter for Virginia Beach

By HRCNN – Hampton Roads Construction News Network Managing Editor

The redevelopment of Pembroke Mall into Pembroke Square marks one of the most ambitious urban renewal projects Virginia Beach has seen in decades. Long known as a central retail hub, the site is now being reshaped into a mixed-use destination that combines housing, office, hospitality, and community amenities—all designed to meet the needs of a growing and evolving city.

At the heart of this transformation is Core 22 Design Build, the Virginia Beach–based firm entrusted with bringing the vision to life. Founded with a commitment to delivering high-quality, locally grounded projects, Core 22 has steadily built a reputation for combining innovative design with deep knowledge of regional development patterns. The firm’s role at Pembroke Square underscores its growing importance in shaping the urban fabric of Hampton Roads.

The project will introduce a blend of uses that go well beyond retail. Plans call for new residential units, modern office space, dining, and a hotel component—creating a 24/7 environment that supports both economic vitality and community engagement. For Virginia Beach, Pembroke Square is intended not only to replace the aging mall but also to anchor the broader Town Center district as the city’s signature urban core.

City leaders have framed the project as a model for future redevelopment efforts. By transitioning from single-purpose retail toward a mixed-use framework, Pembroke Square reflects national trends in commercial real estate while responding to local demand for housing, walkability, and sustainable infrastructure. The shift also signals how municipalities are rethinking suburban commercial corridors to meet 21st-century needs.

Core 22’s involvement ensures that the project is not simply about construction, but about long-term community integration. With a track record in residential and commercial development, the firm brings expertise in both vertical building and local site considerations—from zoning compliance to stormwater management. Their approach positions Pembroke Square as more than a redevelopment; it’s an investment in a resilient, livable future for Virginia Beach.

The economic impact of Pembroke Square is expected to be significant. Beyond the immediate construction jobs, the project will generate ongoing employment through retail, office, and hospitality operations. It also promises to expand the city’s tax base, contributing to infrastructure and services that benefit residents across Virginia Beach.

As Pembroke Square takes shape, it embodies a larger story unfolding in Hampton Roads: the reinvention of aging spaces into mixed-use anchors that support both growth and sustainability. With Core 22 Design Build at the helm, this redevelopment represents not just a new chapter for Town Center but a blueprint for how cities across Virginia can navigate the challenges—and seize the opportunities—of modern urban development.

About HRCNN The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) provides independent coverage of infrastructure, housing, zoning, and environmental policy across Virginia. By highlighting the intersection of local development and national trends, HRCNN delivers fact-driven reporting for industry professionals, policymakers, and the communities they serve.

EPA Suspends 2025 WaterSense® Awards, Raising Questions for Industry

By HRCNN – Hampton Roads Construction News Network Staff Writer

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has quietly suspended its annual WaterSense Awards for 2025, leaving water efficiency advocates and industry partners without one of the nation’s most visible platforms for recognizing leadership in conservation. The decision, confirmed in an email from Acting WaterSense Program Manager Veronica Blette, has sparked uncertainty about the future of the program’s recognition initiatives.

For more than a decade, the WaterSense Awards have been a cornerstone of EPA’s efforts to highlight best practices in water efficiency. Utilities, builders, manufacturers, and nonprofits competed annually for recognition, with winners often leveraging the award to strengthen partnerships, market products, or demonstrate compliance with sustainability standards. The pause in 2025 raises concerns that the momentum built around conservation recognition may be losing ground at a critical moment.

In her communication, Blette explained that the decision stemmed from “program resource constraints” and the need to reassess priorities. She emphasized that the WaterSense label itself remains unchanged, and that EPA continues to view water efficiency as a national priority. Still, the suspension of awards creates a vacuum in industry acknowledgment, at a time when communities face mounting challenges from drought, flooding, and climate-driven water stress.

The WaterSense program, established in 2006, has long served as a voluntary but highly influential label for plumbing fixtures, appliances, and homes that meet strict efficiency standards. Over the years, award recognition extended beyond products, showcasing the leadership of local governments and builders in advancing water-smart development. By putting the awards on hold, EPA is signaling that recognition may take a back seat to maintaining core labeling and verification functions.

Industry response has been cautious but concerned. Builders and manufacturers note that awards offered more than prestige—they provided a competitive edge in demonstrating commitment to conservation. For utilities and municipalities, WaterSense Awards were often used to highlight partnerships and validate public investments in efficiency programs. Without this recognition, stakeholders may struggle to maintain visibility for initiatives that save both water and money.

For Hampton Roads, where sea-level rise and stormwater management remain pressing concerns, the suspension lands at an awkward time. Regional utilities and builders have increasingly turned to WaterSense specifications as part of their strategy for resilience. The loss of a high-profile award program reduces opportunities to showcase local innovation in water stewardship, even as demand for such solutions continues to grow.

EPA has not announced whether the WaterSense Awards will return in 2026. For now, industry professionals are left to navigate without the recognition program that, for nearly two decades, helped set benchmarks for leadership. Whether the pause proves temporary or permanent, the change underscores a broader truth: as water challenges mount nationwide, the need for innovation and accountability in conservation is greater than ever.

About HRCNN
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) provides independent coverage of infrastructure, housing, zoning, and environmental policy across Virginia. By highlighting the intersection of local development and national regulatory shifts, HRCNN delivers fact-driven reporting for industry professionals, policymakers, and the communities they serve.

Quarterra’s Arrival Could Reshape Virginia’s Housing Landscape

By HRCNN — Hampton Roads Construction News Network

In the Hampton Roads housing market, where inventory remains tight and prices continue to climb, the arrival of a national multifamily builder such as Quarterra carries consequences worth examining. While most headlines around housing tend to focus on interest rates or local rezonings, the deeper question is whether new players in the market can disrupt the longstanding supply-and-demand imbalance that keeps many entry-level buyers on the sidelines.

Quarterra, once part of Lennar and now a stand-alone multifamily powerhouse, has been steadily expanding its presence across Virginia. Its projects in Northern Virginia, such as the Lumen development at Tysons Corner, showcase a blend of scale, capital, and design that few local firms can match. And while Quarterra’s portfolio has traditionally been concentrated in larger metro areas, its national strategy and recent property management consolidation with Alfred’s RKW Residential signal an intent to broaden its footprint. For Hampton Roads, this could mean new development energy in cities like Chesapeake and Virginia Beach.

The significance is not only that new buildings would rise on local skylines, but that a company with Quarterra’s resources has the ability to deliver hundreds of units at once. In markets long dominated by a handful of builders, such capacity matters. Local firms often manage growth carefully, limiting inventory to maintain price strength. By contrast, a national multifamily developer is incentivized to build at scale, creating new supply that filters across price points. Even luxury apartments can relieve pressure on the overall market by drawing households upward and opening opportunities in more affordable segments.

This is particularly relevant in Hampton Roads, where buyers and renters alike face constrained options. For many young families, the price of new single-family homes has been pushed beyond reach, as builders hold pricing power in a market short on alternatives. The presence of a national builder with the ability to deliver volume may weaken that grip, easing scarcity and giving buyers relief from what has too often felt like a controlled market.

Still, the implications are complex. Local builders who have long set the terms of development may view Quarterra’s presence as unwelcome competition, especially if land values rise and project standards shift upward. Others may see opportunity in partnership, leveraging Quarterra’s capital and management infrastructure to pursue larger-scale developments together. Either way, the entry of a firm with national reach forces a recalibration of the region’s housing dynamics.

Quarterra’s recent financial moves underscore this potential. The company has engaged in multi-billion-dollar transactions, selling large portfolios to investors such as KKR and QuadReal, while reinvesting in select markets. With a management platform now overseeing more than 50,000 units nationwide, Quarterra has both the balance sheet and the operating infrastructure to scale quickly in regions where demand is strong. If Hampton Roads becomes a focus, local builders and policymakers will need to adapt to an environment where the pace of delivery is no longer set solely by local interests.

For buyers, that adaptation may be long overdue. Housing affordability in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and the broader region has become a persistent challenge. Introducing a new supply stream at scale could soften demand pressures, break through price locks, and open doors that have been closed for too many entry-level households. In the end, the presence of Quarterra in Virginia should be viewed less as a threat to established players and more as an opportunity for the market to reset — toward balance, toward competition, and, most importantly, toward relief for the families who simply need a place to call home.

About HRCNN The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) delivers independent, fact-based coverage of development, zoning, and infrastructure issues shaping Virginia. Our reporting provides residents, policymakers, and industry professionals with clear insight into how growth is managed across the region. By highlighting both local builders and national firms, HRCNN is committed to transparency, accountability, and advancing public understanding of the forces that are reshaping Hampton Roads.

Who Pays for Growth? Virginia’s Debate Over Impact Fees

By HRCNN Staff Writer
Hampton Roads Construction News Network

When local governments weigh new development, one unavoidable question lingers: who pays for the infrastructure that growth demands? Roads, schools, utilities, and stormwater systems all must expand to meet the needs of new subdivisions and multifamily communities. Across much of the country, states impose “impact fees” to ensure that new housing and commercial projects contribute their share of those costs.

In Virginia, however, the practice remains rare. Unlike states such as Florida, Texas, or California, where impact fees are a standard tool, Virginia leans heavily on negotiated developer contributions—known as proffers—or on general tax revenues. The result is that the costs of growth often fall on the broader public, rather than being tied directly to the developments that generate new demand. In 2025, House Bill 2683 sought to make impact fee authority more accessible by lowering the population threshold for localities and removing a growth-rate requirement. The bill, however, stalled in committee, leaving the status quo intact.

There is one notable exception. In late 2024, Stafford County revived its transportation impact fee, becoming the only Virginia locality currently using the tool. Beginning in July 2025, Stafford will levy fees on residential, retail, and commercial projects, with revenue projections between $15 million and $20 million annually to fund transportation improvements. This example underscores how limited the practice remains across the Commonwealth.

The debate resonates strongly in Hampton Roads, where population growth continues to strain classrooms, roads, and stormwater systems. At zoning hearings in Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, residents frequently voice concerns about crowded schools and congested roadways. Local officials acknowledge the urgency but, absent a broader impact fee framework, they are left to rely on case-by-case proffers or general funds. For many residents, this feels like subsidizing development with their tax dollars.

Developers counter that Virginia’s existing proffer system already places heavy financial obligations on them. They warn that layering impact fees on top could increase housing costs in a region already grappling with affordability challenges. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that without new revenue mechanisms, infrastructure will continue to lag behind growth—leaving long-term strains on communities and taxpayers alike.

For now, Virginia’s growth is paid for through negotiated contributions and public resources. But as Hampton Roads continues to expand—and as demands on transportation networks, schools, and stormwater systems grow—the question of who pays is unlikely to fade. Whether the Commonwealth eventually embraces broader impact fee authority or clings to its traditional approach, Hampton Roads will remain at the center of the debate.

About HRCNN
Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is the region’s dedicated platform for reporting on development, infrastructure, and policy. By delivering accurate, timely coverage, HRCNN works to keep residents, builders, and decision-makers informed about the forces shaping the future of Hampton Roads.

Builder & Leadership Spotlight: S.B. Ballard Construction Company – A Trusted Name in Building Hampton Roads

By Staff Writer, Hampton Roads Construction News Network

In Hampton Roads, few names carry as much weight in the construction industry as S.B. Ballard. For more than four decades, the Virginia Beach-based firm has earned its place among the most respected builders in the region, known for delivering complex, high-profile projects with precision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the community. Founded by Stephen B. Ballard, the company’s beginnings were humble—a pickup truck, a toolbox, and a vision. Today, it stands as a regional powerhouse in construction management, design-build, and general contracting.

From the outset, Ballard built a reputation on trust and capability, tackling projects that would shape the very identity of Hampton Roads. The company’s work on Old Dominion University’s campus is perhaps its most recognized legacy, including the L.R. Hill Sports Complex and multiple student housing developments. These projects not only elevated ODU’s facilities but also reinforced Ballard’s standing as the go-to builder for large-scale institutional work.

Nowhere is that reputation more evident than at Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium. In just one offseason, the company transformed the aging Foreman Field into a state-of-the-art, 21,944-seat stadium—preserving its historic character while enhancing fan amenities, sightlines, and accessibility. The project became a showcase of Ballard’s ability to balance tradition with innovation, delivering on time and within budget for a community deeply invested in its university’s future.

Sustainability and forward-thinking design are hallmarks of the firm’s approach. The stadium project earned LEED certification, with features such as water-saving fixtures, low-emission materials, and a 78% construction waste diversion rate. This commitment to environmentally responsible construction reflects Ballard’s understanding that great buildings must also serve future generations.

Beyond higher education, S.B. Ballard has demonstrated its expertise in high-security, high-stakes federal projects, including major facilities for the U.S. Navy and Army. These contracts, often exceeding $50 million, require not only technical excellence but also the bonding capacity, logistical skill, and regulatory knowledge that only a trusted builder can provide. In every sector—public, private, or military—Ballard’s work consistently meets the highest standards.

The company’s internal culture mirrors its external success. Recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work” in the region, S.B. Ballard invests heavily in its people, fostering a work environment grounded in collaboration, respect, and professional growth. This commitment to its team directly translates into the quality of its projects and the strength of its client relationships.

As S.B. Ballard looks to the future, its legacy is already deeply woven into the fabric of Hampton Roads. From landmark civic spaces to cutting-edge educational facilities and critical military infrastructure, the company has shaped not only the region’s skyline but also its sense of community pride. In doing so, it has secured its place as one of the most trusted and respected names in Hampton Roads construction.

About the Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network delivers authoritative coverage of the people and projects shaping our region’s future. Through the Builder & Leadership Spotlight series, HRCNN highlights firms like S.B. Ballard that exemplify excellence in design, construction, and community leadership—ensuring their stories are shared with the audiences that matter most.

Leading with Purpose: Kyle Larkin’s Vision for Granite Construction’s Next 100 Years

By Staff Writer, Hampton Roads Construction News Network

Granite Construction Incorporated, founded in 1922, has spent more than a century building America’s infrastructure—from highways and rail systems to dams and environmental restoration. Today, the company stands as one of the nation’s largest diversified heavy-civil contractors and vertically integrated materials producers, publicly traded and employing thousands across the country. Its projects reflect a legacy of craftsmanship, resilience, and innovation. As Granite moves into its second century, the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Kyle Larkin will define how that legacy evolves for the next hundred years.

Larkin joined Granite in 1996 as an estimator in the Reno, Nevada office after graduating from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in Construction Management. Over the years, he advanced through the company’s operational and executive ranks, serving as project engineer, chief estimator, manager of construction, regional manager, and president of subsidiary Intermountain Slurry Seal. In September 2020, he was named president, and in June 2021, chief executive officer. Along the way, he earned an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, pairing real-world construction experience with strategic business insight.

Under Larkin’s leadership, Granite has sharpened its competitive edge through vertical integration—owning both the construction and materials sides of the business—and embracing “best value” procurement models like progressive design-build. These approaches allow the company to control cost, ensure consistent quality, and deliver on complex, high-value projects that demand innovation and collaboration.

Growth through mergers and acquisitions has been another cornerstone of Larkin’s strategy. In 2024, Granite acquired Dickerson & Bowen, expanding its Southeast operations. In 2025, the company made two major acquisitions—Warren Paving and Papich Construction—for a combined $710 million. These strategic moves are expected to generate hundreds of millions in additional annual revenue, expand aggregate reserves, and strengthen Granite’s vertically integrated model.

The results have been tangible. In the second quarter of 2025, Granite achieved a record-high project backlog of $6.1 billion. The materials segment saw double-digit revenue growth, gross profit rose significantly, and annual revenue guidance for the year was increased. Larkin attributes these gains to disciplined operations, strong market positioning, and the early contributions from recent acquisitions.

Still, Larkin’s vision is about more than financial performance. He has consistently emphasized the importance of safety, workforce development, and building high-performance teams. In his view, sustaining Granite’s success into the next century depends on cultivating talent, fostering relationships, and empowering teams to perform at their best.

For Virginia’s builders and infrastructure leaders, Granite’s trajectory under Larkin offers an instructive example of how legacy, innovation, and people-first leadership can work together to meet the demands of a changing industry. As the Commonwealth undertakes major investments in transportation, flood protection, and renewable energy infrastructure, Larkin’s approach offers a model for growth that is both ambitious and sustainable.

About the Hampton Roads Construction News Network
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is dedicated to delivering accurate, timely, and in-depth coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development in Virginia and beyond. By spotlighting industry leaders like Kyle Larkin, HRCNN connects regional professionals with national perspectives, fostering informed dialogue and sharing strategies that strengthen the built environment for generations to come.

Virginia’s Builder of Choice: Six Decades of Excellence from The Breeden Company

By Hampton Roads Construction News Network Staff Writer

In Hampton Roads, when the conversation turns to multifamily development, one name consistently rises to the top: The Breeden Company. In Virginia Beach and Norfolk, there is simply no one better. Among privately held multifamily building firms, The Breeden Company stands as the best of the best—delivering communities whose quality, design, and performance have set the benchmark for more than six decades.

As part of the Hampton Roads Construction News Network’s Builder Spotlight series, this feature honors the legacy of Ramon W. Breeden Jr. and The Breeden Company’s enduring commitment to creating vibrant, enduring communities across the Commonwealth. From its early work in Virginia Beach to award-winning developments throughout the state, the company has consistently combined market insight, architectural excellence, and operational discipline to produce places people are proud to call home.

The Breeden Company’s portfolio spans Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, Newport News, and Williamsburg, encompassing more than 15,000 apartments and over 2 million square feet of commercial and retail space. Signature projects such as Lake Taylor Pointe, The Lofts at Front Street, High Street Apartments, and Ascend at Hilltop each demonstrate Breeden’s unmatched ability to integrate thoughtful site planning with high-quality construction and first-class amenities.

Performance metrics reinforce this reputation for excellence. Breeden communities regularly achieve occupancy rates near 98 percent, with top national rankings in project completions, market value, and development pipeline. The company’s track record is further distinguished by national awards for design, construction quality, and resident satisfaction. Breeden’s vertical integration—through Breeden Construction and Breeden Property Management—ensures quality from concept through long-term operation, with resident satisfaction scores consistently placing in the top five percent nationwide.

The Breeden Company’s success is rooted in more than its ability to deliver buildings; it lies in a commitment to building communities that stand the test of time. This philosophy has made the company a trusted partner for municipalities, a sought-after employer for skilled professionals, and a model for private development excellence in Virginia.

Decade after decade, Breeden has demonstrated that local expertise, zoning knowledge, and a deep understanding of community needs are the keys to lasting success. Its ability to adapt to market shifts while maintaining exacting quality standards has ensured its position at the forefront of Virginia’s multifamily housing sector.

For Virginia Beach and Norfolk, The Breeden Company is more than a developer—it is the standard by which others are measured. In quality, in service, and in results, The Breeden Company has earned its place as Virginia’s Builder of Choice.

About the Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)
The Hampton Roads Construction News Network is a regional news platform providing accurate, timely, and in-depth coverage of construction, infrastructure, zoning, and development in Hampton Roads and across Virginia. HRCNN serves as a trusted source for industry professionals, policymakers, and the public, offering fact-checked reporting and comprehensive analysis on the projects shaping our communities.

New Soccer Fields Near City Hall Poised to Elevate Virginia Beach’s Recreation Scene

By HRCNN Staff Writer
Hampton Roads Construction News Network

VIRGINIA BEACH — New multipurpose soccer fields are being finished within the Princess Anne Commons civic campus near City Hall, adding playable capacity in the heart of Virginia Beach’s Municipal Center. While the City has not yet posted an official project page or opening date for these civic-campus fields, the location fits squarely within Princess Anne Commons’ long-standing role as the City’s recreation hub and a focal point for sports tourism. HRCNN has requested additional details from Parks & Recreation and will update as soon as they’re released.

The new fields will sit amid a cluster of destination venues. Immediately nearby, the Princess Anne Athletic Complex (PAAC) offers eight lighted tournament-quality softball/baseball diamonds and eight multipurpose fields—four lighted synthetic and four Hybrid Bermuda—positioning the campus for year-round programming across soccer, football, lacrosse and more.

Across the street, the Virginia Beach Sportsplex anchors the corridor with a soccer-specific stadium and adjacent training fields, part of a larger complex that includes the USA Field Hockey National Training Center. The Sportsplex stadium seats roughly 6,000 and opened in 1999; it’s directly across from PAAC and near the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater—together forming a contiguous, tournament-ready zone.

City actions over the last year underscore sustained investment in this corridor. In October 2024, City Council approved funding to replace artificial turf at the Sportsplex, add lights at Field Hockey Field 2, convert grass fields at the Field Hockey complex, and create a grass training area—clear signals of capacity-building around the campus. In March 2024, the Convention & Visitors Bureau’s reinvestment study highlighted strong demand for additional lighted turf and recommended, among other items, converting two PAAC rectangular grass fields to artificial turf with lights—improvements that align with expanding soccer use in Princess Anne Commons.

From a community-impact lens, adding playable fields near City Hall improves access for youth leagues, school teams, and regional tournaments while distributing activity across a walkable civic campus. The same reinvestment study projected that field upgrades at PAAC and the Sportsplex could drive dozens of new or expanded events and thousands of additional contracted room nights annually—evidence that well-sited field capacity is an economic development tool as much as a recreation amenity.

Planning policy also supports this trajectory. The Princess Anne Commons & Transition Area guidance in the City’s Comprehensive Plan calls out the district’s unique role in education, entertainment, and recreation, and the long-standing Princess Anne Commons design and corridor studies emphasize cohesive development and connectivity across civic uses—exactly where these new fields are taking shape.

Zooming out, the broader soccer ecosystem here is deep. In addition to PAAC and the Sportsplex, the nearby Hampton Roads Soccer Complex (HRSC)—a separate, 75-acre facility—continues to modernize (including a 2025 project to upgrade fields) and hosts tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors each year, reinforcing the area’s regional draw for the sport.

About HRCNN — The Hampton Roads Construction News Network covers the region’s construction, zoning, infrastructure, and land-use developments with field reporting and document-based analysis. We connect the dots between policy, permitting, and project delivery—so residents, industry, and decision-makers can see how today’s choices shape tomorrow’s communities.

Crestfield Chesapeake VA: New Homes, Park, and Road Improvements Transform the City’s Residential Landscape

By Staff Writer — Hampton Roads Construction News Network

Chesapeake, VA — In Chesapeake’s growing residential market, progress is accelerating at Crestfield, a thoughtfully planned community by The Dragas Companies. With the sales office and model homes now open and construction advancing on additional units, Crestfield is quickly becoming a standout in the city’s new home offerings.

The Crestfield community reflects The Dragas Companies’ decades-long commitment to designing and building master-planned neighborhoods that combine architectural quality with a strong sense of place. Featuring a variety of home styles and amenities, the development is positioned to meet the needs of a diverse homebuyer base while maintaining a cohesive and well-planned environment.

The City of Chesapeake has expressed its appreciation for Helen Dragas’s leadership in bringing high-quality residential communities like Crestfield to life. Over the years, her vision has helped shape neighborhoods that are both livable and enduring, strengthening Chesapeake’s reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in Hampton Roads.

A key enhancement to Crestfield’s appeal is the planned new city park in Chesapeake located directly adjacent to the neighborhood. This multi-use park is envisioned to feature walking trails, open green lawns, and recreational amenities that will serve Crestfield residents and the broader community. The integration of public green space is designed to promote outdoor recreation, community engagement, and environmental health — all priorities in Chesapeake’s long-term planning. The park is expected to become a central gathering place and a valued asset for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and community groups.

Supporting the neighborhood’s growth are significant Elbow Road improvements in Chesapeake, a major infrastructure investment by the city. These upgrades include roadway widening, enhanced drainage systems, and improved intersections to accommodate increased traffic and improve safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. The Elbow Road project is part of Chesapeake’s broader transportation strategy, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with residential development while improving commuter connections to employment centers, shopping districts, and recreational destinations.

Crestfield’s neighborhood design incorporates open spaces, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, and strategic connectivity to surrounding developments — features that are increasingly important to homebuyers seeking both quality housing and a vibrant community environment. The development also supports Chesapeake’s residential growth strategy, offering housing options that align with the city’s long-range planning objectives.

With a proven track record in Hampton Roads, The Dragas Companies has delivered numerous award-winning communities known for their attention to detail, integration of green space, and emphasis on building neighborhoods that endure. Crestfield continues that legacy, blending modern amenities with timeless design principles.

As sales progress and new residents prepare to move in, Crestfield is on track to become a defining example of Chesapeake residential development — where high-quality home construction is supported by forward-thinking public investments in parks, transportation, and infrastructure.

About HRCNN: The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) provides in-depth reporting on construction, infrastructure, zoning, and economic development projects across Hampton Roads. Our mission is to inform, engage, and foster meaningful conversation about the projects shaping our region’s future.

Bridging the Past and the Future: Deep Creek Bridge Project Enters Critical Phase

By HRCNN Staff Writer | August 2025 | Chesapeake, VA

In the Deep Creek neighborhood of Chesapeake, Virginia, an infrastructure transformation nearly a century in the making is approaching a defining moment. For decades, the Deep Creek Bridge—a narrow, two-lane bascule span built in 1934—has served as a vital connector for drivers, businesses, and maritime traffic along U.S. Route 17. But with daily traffic counts nearing 30,000 vehicles and the structure long labeled “functionally obsolete,” calls for a replacement intensified in recent years as congestion worsened and maintenance challenges mounted.

After years of delay, the long-anticipated replacement is now underway. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with the City of Chesapeake, broke ground on the Deep Creek Bridge Replacement Project in fall 2023. The $59.5 million investment, awarded to Archer Western Construction LLC, will replace the aging drawbridge with a five-lane, dual-leaf bascule span situated approximately 100 feet south of the original crossing. Measuring 144 feet in length and 60 feet wide, the new bridge is designed to enhance capacity, improve safety, and preserve navigational access along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

Although the original bridge was a product of its time—built when vehicle weights were lighter and the region less developed—it has become a choke point in an increasingly urbanized corridor. Emergency vehicles, freight haulers, and commuters have long faced steep inclines, lane constraints, and unexpected closures tied to the aging draw system. The new structure, once complete, will accommodate modern traffic standards and improve throughput on a critical stretch of Route 17.

Construction has not gone unnoticed by residents and local businesses. Throughout 2024 and into 2025, crews have staged materials, shifted traffic, and coordinated complex utility relocations. Intermittent closures and detours—particularly near Mill Creek Parkway—have drawn both frustration and understanding from the community.

“I’ve lived here for over 20 years,” said one business owner located near the construction zone. “Yes, it’s been tough, but I see this as an investment that will pay off for the next generation.”

Despite soft soils and subsurface challenges that complicated early foundation work, the project remains on schedule. Structural elements such as the concrete decking and mechanical components for the draw spans are now in place. A newly constructed bridge tender’s house stands ready, and according to USACE officials, traffic is expected to begin shifting onto the new span before the end of 2025. The full project is slated for completion by late 2027.

Community members can receive traffic alerts and construction updates by texting “DCBridge” to 888777 or by visiting the City of Chesapeake’s dedicated project page. The replacement bridge will remain toll-free and, upon completion, operations and maintenance responsibilities will transfer to the City.

Though not without inconvenience, the Deep Creek Bridge replacement has come to represent more than just a transportation upgrade. It reflects the long arc of public infrastructure development—where federal legislation, local advocacy, and engineering innovation converge to meet the needs of a growing region. The effort also underscores a broader shift in Hampton Roads, where legacy infrastructure built in the early 20th century is now being reimagined for resilience, capacity, and future growth.

The new bridge is expected to not only improve daily life for thousands of residents but also support long-term economic development, strengthen freight movement, and enhance emergency response times across the southern Chesapeake area. As the steel rises and the structure takes shape, the project offers a clear reminder that even in an era of rapid digital advancement, the work of building—and rebuilding—physical infrastructure remains a cornerstone of progress.

The Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN) is a Virginia-based editorial initiative powered by Earthly Infrastructure®. Our mission is to deliver professional, policy-aligned reporting on zoning, land use, stormwater, transportation, code reform, and the built environment across the Commonwealth. HRCNN features interviews, site visits, and expert commentary from public officials, planners, builders, and advocates shaping Virginia’s infrastructure landscape. Learn more or submit a story at earthlyinfrastructure.com/hrcnn.

Where the Water Goes: Rethinking Stormwater in Coastal Virginia

By Earthly Infrastructure® HRCNN Staff Writer
Hampton Roads Construction News Network (HRCNN)

In Hampton Roads, water is more than a geographic feature—it’s a defining force in how we live, build, and plan. As sea levels rise and rainfall events grow more intense, the region’s aging drainage systems and development patterns are being tested in ways never before imagined. For municipalities, engineers, and developers alike, stormwater management has moved from the margins of planning to the forefront of resilience, environmental responsibility, and public infrastructure investment.

Too often, stormwater is invisible—until it’s not. Flooded intersections, overwhelmed outfalls, eroded shorelines, and degraded wetlands are all symptoms of a system pushed past its limits. While reactive measures may be necessary in the short term, they carry steep costs. Increasingly, Virginia’s coastal communities are shifting toward proactive, long-range strategies that anticipate the water’s path—before it becomes a problem.

Nowhere is this transformation more urgent than in Virginia Beach. The city’s low-lying terrain, rapid development, and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay create a perfect storm of environmental responsibility and regulatory complexity. Under mandates like the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit program and the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, Virginia Beach must meet strict standards for runoff control, nutrient management, and infrastructure maintenance. Yet even full compliance with these regulations may not be enough to protect residents and waterways from the cumulative effects of unchecked growth and outdated systems.

To better understand how policy and infrastructure are aligning at the local level, HRCNN reached out to multiple Virginia Beach city leaders, including Council Member Michael F. Berlucchi and Mayor Bobby Dyer. Their insights shed light on the city’s evolving approach to stormwater management and the political will driving resilience investments.

Councilman Berlucchi, who represents District 3—including neighborhoods severely affected by Hurricane Matthew in 2016—emphasized the importance of both investment and foresight in protecting the city’s future:

“As the Council Member representing the neighborhoods most impacted by Hurricane Matthew in 2016, I’ve seen firsthand the lasting damage that stormwater flooding can cause to lives, property, and public infrastructure. That experience continues to shape my commitment to investing in the systems and safeguards Virginia Beach needs to protect our future.

But infrastructure alone isn’t enough. We also need strong, enforceable stormwater policies—based in science and guided by common sense—that reflect the realities of a growing coastal city and support our long-term resilience.

At the same time, we must foster a strong local economy. Job creation, innovation, and a healthy tax base provide the resources we need to build and maintain critical infrastructure. Smart growth and sound environmental policy are not at odds—they are partners. When aligned, they help ensure Virginia Beach remains a safe, vibrant, and resilient community for everyone who lives, works, and visits here.”
— Michael F. Berlucchi, Council Member, District 3

Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer echoed these concerns and outlined how the City is already taking action through one of the most ambitious resilience initiatives in its history:

“In November 2021, Virginia Beach voters overwhelmingly supported a resiliency package for several key flood protection initiatives to include drainage improvements, tide gates, pump stations and flood barriers throughout the city—and for good reason.

Being a low-lying coastal city, heavy rains, hurricanes and nor’easters have been threatening Virginia Beach year after year. The area has struggled with flooding from record rainfalls, including Hurricane Matthew that impacted over 1,000 homes in 2016.

Additionally, it has seen recorded sea level rise of nearly one foot over the past 50 years. In response, the City has expedited plans to invest in resilience for its vulnerable neighborhoods.

Because of this, City Council understood the immediate gravity of the situation and what our city’s future looked like. Working with Virginia Beach Public Works and consulting engineers, they developed a drainage plan that concentrates on volume of storage and conveyance capacity in the City’s four watersheds—the Atlantic Ocean, the Elizabeth River, the Lynnhaven River, and the Southern Rivers—which are made up of 15 drainage basins.

These projects are a huge step in the right direction. But we have to look further down the road if we are to manage our stormwater efforts effectively and protect our city’s future. This includes maintaining and protecting our long-term investment in these projects; promoting effective stormwater drainage; improving the quality of the stormwater discharged into our waterways; and continuously educating our residents on stormwater issues.”
— Mayor Bobby Dyer, City of Virginia Beach

Their remarks underscore a critical point: addressing stormwater is not just about pipes and pumps—it’s about people, planning, and political will.

Across the region, municipalities and private developers are adopting a new generation of solutions. Bioretention areas, bioswales, and rain gardens are appearing in both public rights-of-way and residential subdivisions. Permeable pavements and green roofs are reducing impervious surfaces and increasing onsite water retention. Underground detention systems—once a premium option—are now becoming standard practice even in suburban infill developments.

These approaches are supported by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ), whose Stormwater BMP Clearinghouse provides technical guidance for post-construction runoff controls. As Virginia strives to meet its Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) obligations, developers are not only required to manage runoff—but to do so in a way that supports long-term watershed health.

Responsible stormwater planning must begin at the drawing board. Erosion and sediment control strategies, stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs), and early-stage BMP integration all play a role in reducing flood risk, improving infrastructure longevity, and safeguarding public and environmental health. Done right, these practices serve as more than regulatory checkboxes—they become pillars of sustainable, cost-effective development.

Perhaps most importantly, stormwater tells a story. It reflects how we’ve zoned, how we’ve permitted, and how seriously we’ve taken our responsibility as stewards of a coastal environment. In Chesapeake Bay Preservation Zones and Resource Protection Areas (RPAs), where sensitive ecosystems meet expanding development, these decisions are magnified. The consequences of poor planning are not just local—they reverberate throughout the region.

As Hampton Roads continues to grow, so must the systems that support it. Local governments must prioritize green infrastructure in their capital improvement plans. Developers need clear guidance and incentives to build with water in mind. And residents must stay engaged—because flood resilience, clean waterways, and safe neighborhoods are shared goals that require collective action.

HRCNN will continue to report on the evolving stormwater landscape across Coastal Virginia. From VDEQ updates and BMP innovations to planning commission votes and watershed investments, we are committed to elevating the conversations that will shape the next generation of responsible development.

To our readers: If you are a stormwater engineer, policy leader, or municipal official with expertise or perspective to share, we invite you to submit a guest article or commentary. Visit www.earthlyinfrastructure.com/contact to connect with the HRCNN editorial team.

Because in Hampton Roads, the future doesn’t just depend on what we build.
It depends on how we manage the water that follows.