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.