The Communications Department develops and implements strategies for comprehensive, effective and proactive communications with Newport News residents, employees, businesses, visitors and other target audiences. The department enhances and maximizes resources for citywide internal and external communications using a variety of communications techniques and vehicles including print, social media, internet, broadcast and cablecast mediums.

It is the ability of the City to communicate with its many audiences that most significantly impacts perceptions of the City and its services, policies, programs and activities. The Communications Department holds the responsibility for internal and external communications, public and media relations, managing citizen engagement and community relations, and emergency communications. The department includes the functions of Newport News Television (NNTV), the 311 Contact Center, Graphics Services, and public and media relations.

The department establishes and maintains relationships with media outlets; develops the comprehensive communications plan for the City; directs and manages crisis communications; provides leadership to the emergency communications team during disaster and emergency events; provides one-stop service to citizens for information and service requests through the 311 Contact Center; promotes City programs, activities and events through NNTV, Cox Ch. 48/Verizon Ch. 19; plans, coordinates and orchestrates special events including:

• groundbreakings,
• facility openings,
• dedications,
• roadway and bridge openings,
• conferences and dignitary visits and
• provide support for Boards, Commissions and Committees, citizen engagement, and community outreach.