Curated for Commerce

With intention and collaboration, the EDA curated opportunities that activated key sites, strengthened Downtown, and created momentum for inclusive, sustainable economic growth.

Downtown momentum was reinforced in 2025 with the opening of Shipyard Flats,
a $23.3 million adaptive reuse project that transformed a historic department store into new housing and commercial space. Located at 2800 Washington Avenue, the 81,000-square-foot landmark was preserved and reimagined by Virginia-based The Monument Companies, supported by state and federal historic tax credits. The project introduced 91 new apartment units and 3,100 square feet of retail space, helping to strengthen the City’s tax base while advancing a more active, walkable Downtown.

Originally built in 1947, the building now features 86 one-bedroom units, 4 two-bedroom units, and one studio apartment, each with high-quality finishes. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together local, state, and federal leaders, reflecting the depth of collaboration behind the project’s success. Congressman Bobby Scott, Senator Mamie Locke, and Mayor Phillip Jones offered remarks, joined by Delegate Shelly Simonds and other City leaders to mark the occasion and celebrate a transformative milestone in Downtown revitalization.

Adding to that progress and setting the stage for new construction activity, the EDA advanced the next chapter of Downtown’s revitalization by finalizing the disposition of property at 2815 Washington Avenue and 150 29th Street to the Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority in support of the final housing phase of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative (CNI) project. Located directly across from Shipyard Flats, this final phase will add 73 new apartment units and ground-floor retail, creating an environment that supports residents, small business, and adds to the fabric of Downtown.

Momentum continued as the EDA took strategic action to activate underutilized landmark properties through targeted Requests for Proposals (RFPs). In 2025, the EDA finalized an RFP for the adaptive reuse of the former Greek Orthodox Church at 2591 West Avenue, inviting development concepts that honor the site’s cultural significance while complementing the collective investments underway Downtown.

In parallel, the EDA advanced planning for the reuse of another key asset Downtown: the former West Avenue Library. Originally opened in 1929 as the Newport News Public Library, the building was added to both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. Though vacant since 2013, this historically significant site is now poised for revitalization.

With support from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality’s Brownfields Program, the EDA secured environmental assessments, site planning, and public engagement services at no direct cost to the City. These efforts culminated in an on-site community visioning session in July 2025, gathering input and ideas to inform redevelopment possibilities. Building on this groundwork, the EDA moved forward with an RFP inviting proposals that embrace the library’s legacy while aligning with Downtown’s broader revitalization strategy.

A commitment to Downtown and bringing new life to historic spaces is also reflected in the expanding presence of Mark Turner Construction (MTC), a Virginia-grown full-service construction firm that opened its new regional office at 91 29th Street. Founded by Franklin Bowser, MTC brings deep expertise across diverse project types and a strong record of community involvement. The opening of this regional hub strengthens Newport News’ business community, supports local project delivery capacity, and signals continued confidence in the City as a location for business success.

Together, these efforts reflect how the EDA curates opportunity – not just through redevelopment, but by nurturing partnerships, unlocking underused assets, and ensuring that every investment contributes to a stronger, more connected Newport News.