Actions Associated with Development of Tech Center

-    $5,600,000 was appropriated to the Economic Development Authority for public infrastructure associated with the construction of the corporate research center component of Tech Center. Hogan Drive will be upgraded and improved, including two additional travel lanes, medians, sidewalks, new utilities underground, and enhanced landscaping.

 -   Roughly 18 acres of City-owned property at 12005 Canon Boulevard was conveyed to the Newport News Economic Development Authority for the eventual construction of the corporate research expansions and infrastructure requirements, along with the potential expansion of Jefferson Lab associated with a future Electron-Ion Collider.

Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure Improvements
City Council appropriated $4,570,000 from the Capital Improvements Plan for the Citywide Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Program to help with aging and failing pipes and manholes, as well as upgrades of pump stations throughout the City. Anticipated locations of the improvements include select portions of Colony Road, Belvedere Drive, Prince Drew Road, Rexford Road and 18th Street.

Newport News Arts Commission Awards Grants
City Council approved the distribution of nearly $160,000 in grants by the Newport News Arts Commission to nonprofit organizations in support of dance, literary, media music, theater, visual and related arts activities. Organizations submitted applications in May which were reviewed by the Arts Commission and evaluated according to established criteria. Thirty grants are being awarded this year ranging from $500 to $22,000 to provide support for either the general operation of the organization or for special projects.

The Towers Renovations
Following a discussion during the afternoon work session, City Council approved at its regular meeting last night a resolution that would allow The Towers, a 140-unit high rise rent-subsidized apartment complex at 700 Waterfront Circle, to be purchased and renovated with tax-exempt bonds by Weston Associates. The new owners have committed to at least $10 million in improvements to the complex including upgrading the elevators, new heating and air conditioning, a community room, apartments for disabled residents, new flooring, kitchens and bathroom fixtures, and more.

 Other Actions
All other agenda items were approved by City Council, and the entire Council meeting can be viewed on-demand.