Grants will support efforts to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and provide affordable housing Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that he is recommending four projects for funding by the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC), totaling $1.5 million in grants. SCRC will finalize approval of these project awards later this year.    “The Southeast Crescent Regional Commission supports job creation, affordable housing, increasing infrastructure and improving the lives of the over 51 million residents of the region,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “These funds will support locally driven projects that will spur economic development and help foster strong, vibrant communities.”    “By funding these, we are able to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for those who call this region home,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “We are taking proactive steps to foster the economic growth of the region, address its unique challenges and commit to its ongoing prosperity.”    The Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) is a federal-state partnership authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill to promote and encourage economic development in areas of Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and all of Florida. SCRC invests in projects that support basic infrastructure, business development and natural resources, as well as workforce and labor development. SCRC’s mission is to help create jobs, build communities, and improve the lives of those who reside in the 428 counties of the seven-state region.    “SCRC grants are an important resource for the ongoing support efforts for the Southeast Crescent region of Virginia,” said Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Director Bryan Horn. “The program’s flexibility allows us to offer targeted assistance in community-identified areas, filling in funding gaps and offering holistic support.”    Additional information about SCRC is available here.    2023 SCRC Recommendations:  Organization Project Name Award Industrial Development Authority of Brunswick County Brunswick County Produce Project $500,000 Maggie Walker Community Land Trust Oak Grove Resilience: Building a Brighter Future Together $500,000 Southside Community Development and Housing Corporation Southside Community Development and Housing Corporation Emporia Rail Depot Townhomes $350,000 Campbell County Economic Development Department Seneca Commerce Park Grading JKL Sites Project $202,459 Total: $1,552,459  

Funding will support redevelopment projects in port host communities of Newport News and Norfolk  Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced $1.5 million in Port Host Communities Revitalization Fund (PHCRF) awards for the cities of Newport News and Norfolk. The two grants will redevelop the 39-acre Seafood Industrial Park dock in the city of Newport News and renovate the historic Riverview Theater in the city of Norfolk.   “Revitalizing derelict structures will not only stimulate job creation but also act as a driving force for fresh economic prospects in these port host communities,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Through the Port Host Community Revitalization Fund, our investment is a step towards enhancing our infrastructure, bolstering our economy, and enhancing the lives of Virginians.”  The General Assembly allocated $1.5 million in Port Host Communities Revitalization Fund grants through 2023. This money will assist with the removal, renovation, or modernization of port-related buildings and facilities in Virginia’s five port host communities: the town of Front Royal, and the cities of Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Richmond.  “The heart of the Port Host Communities Revitalization Fund lies in its adaptability,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “This flexibility empowers us to address diverse needs within the port host communities, each with distinct needs and market-driven strategies for revitalization.” “Both of these projects will make important investments that will help ensure our economy continues to grow in our Port Host communities,” said Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Bryan Horn. “This program continues to be a key source of funding for these crucial projects that transform structures, communities and economies.”  For more information, visit dhcd.virginia.gov/phcrf. 2024 Port Host Communities Revitalization Fund Grants: Seafood Industrial Park (SIP) Dock Improvements | $800,000City of Newport News The city of Newport News will improve the dock at the 39-acre Seafood Industrial Park, including the demolition of existing pier structures, the installation of a new system that will include shore power and water, as well as dredging to increase capacity for watermen.  Riverview Theater | $700,000City of Norfolk The city of Norfolk, in partnership with the Norfolk Economic Development Authority and a private developer, will renovate the historic Riverview Theater on Granby Street. The renovation will include theater and marquee improvements, as well as storm water and paving an adjoining parking lot. The renovated 500-seat theater will host live music, concerts, movies and theatrical performances, as well as serve as a private event venue for weddings, corporate events, fundraisers and festivals.