Ophelia flooding not as bad as predicted; more wind, rain today

Sept. 23 - Tropical Storm Ophelia caused flooding in Hampton's low-lying areas overnight, but the city did not see major damage. 

The forecast for today is continued rain -- about an inch -- tapering off after 2 p.m. Winds will ramp up again from ...

CLOSED FOR THE STORM: Here's what is closed and canceled

Sept. 22, 2023 — Several events and facilities are being closed or canceled due to the impending storm this weekend, bringing an extended period of flooding, heavy rains, and high winds.

All public libraries, community centers and neighborhood ce...

Tropical Storm Ophelia to bring flooding, winds; city will open shelter

Sept. 22, 2023 - Ophelia has formed into a tropical storm, and Hampton is expected to experience heavy winds, heavy rainfall, high tides, and storm surge, starting Friday afternoon and going through Saturday. 

Winds are predicted to hit 30 mph at ...

Weekend storm to bring flooding, high winds, rain, storm surge

Sept. 21, 2023 - The storm aiming for Hampton Roads doesn’t have a name, but that doesn’t mean you should underestimate its impacts. The National Weather Service predicts Hampton will get heavy winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge, starting Friday after...

Planning Commission will consider additional apartments at Peninsula Town Center

Sept. 19, 2023 - Additional apartments and townhouses for Peninsula Town Center are on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting on Thursday. The meeting begins at 3:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 22 Lincoln St. It is open to the publ...

Hampton Roads leads nation in percentage of veteran-owned businesses

Sept. 18, 2023 - Hampton Roads has the largest concentration of veteran-owned businesses among large metro areas in the nation, according to a data analysis by the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission.

It's not entirely a surprise. Among metro areas ...

Settlers Landing Road on-ramps to I-64 scheduled for overnight closures

Sept. 6, 2023 - The Settlers Landing Road/Woodland Road entrance ramps to Interstate 64 face nighttime closures next week. The work is part of the widening of Interstate 64, which will require similar work at additional ramps in the coming weeks.

The on-ra...

Vice president's visit will affect bus routes, traffic near HU

Thursday, Sept. 14 — Vice President Kamala Harris will visit Hampton University on Thursday as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour, and her visit will have an impact on traffic near HU and on Hampton Roads Transit bus service.

The vic...

Wednesday afternoon Council work session packed with project updates

Sept. 12, 2023 - City Council will hear updates about some of the city's capital projects, a new small-business assistance program, and developments at Fort Monroe in its afternoon meeting at 1 p.m. Sept. 13. You can view it live here.

The schedul...

Mallory Street Bridge work will cause some nighttime delays on I-64

Sept. 11, 2023 - Installation of new bridge girders for the Mallory Street Bridge will cause some nighttime delays on Interstate 64, both eastbound and westbound under the bridge, as well as on the bridge itself.

Bridge improvements are part of the work to...

Construction begins on new modern Wythe Fire Station

Sept. 8, 2023 - A ceremonial groundbreaking today kicked off construction on a new fire station for the Wythe area. The existing 80-year-old station doesn't accommodate modern fire equipment, which is larger and heavier than it was then.

"It&...

Rip Rap Road exit will close for 2 nights for I-64 widening project

Sept. 6, 2023 - The Rip Rap Road exit on I-64 East will be closed for two nights,  tentatively scheduled for Sept. 12 and 13 from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. The work is part of the widening of Interstate 64, which will require similar work at additional r...

UPDATE: Swimming advisory for Salt Ponds lifted

Previously:

Aug. 30, 2023 – The Health Department has issued a swimming advisory for Salt Ponds beach due to levels of bacteria levels that exceed the state water quality standards for swimming. Beaches at Fort Monroe and Buckroe are within normal limits a...

Hampton gets $13 million toward Armistead Ave. flood reduction

Aug. 31, 2023 - Hampton will receive more than $13 million toward the project to rebuild a portion of Armistead Avenue that frequently floods. It was by far the largest of the 17 hazard mitigation grants announced this week. 

The grant funding is ...

Hurricane Idalia could bring flooding, winds to Hampton

Aug. 31, 2023 — The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood watch for the lower Chesapeake Bay, with Hurricane Idalia possibly bringing some flooding and gale-force winds to Hampton.

High tides in Hampton's coastal areas will come at about 10:3...

Labor Day holiday will affect city offices, services

Here is a look at how city offices, departments and services will be affected by the Labor Day holiday on Monday, Sept. 4

City offices          Closed Monday, Sept. 4

Garbage       &...

Expect more days of high tides and flooding this year, says NOAA

Aug. 25, 2023 - A new report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects that the Hampton Roads region will see more high tide flood days than any other spot on the East Coast this year.

NOAA’s annual high tide flooding outl...

Hampton called “a national leader” at groundbreaking for Lake Hampton resiliency project

Aug 18, 2023 – Hampton broke ground Friday morning on the first of three innovative resiliency projects designed primarily to reduce the impact of flooding on the area around Newmarket Creek. 

“These projects aim for innovative...

Air Power Park to close for a month to complete improvements

Aug. 16, 2023 - The revitalization of Air Power Park is nearly complete, but the park needs to close for the final phase of construction. The closure will begin Friday, Aug. 18, and last about a month. 

The Air Power Park entrance to the WaterWalk...

Hampton Fire retains top rating by agency tied to insurance industry

Aug. 4, 2023 - The Hampton Fire and Rescue division has retained its top rating after an external re-evaluation by the Insurance Services Office. Hampton first received its Class 1 rating in 2015. 

The Insurance Services Office evaluates fire prot...

Hampton City Council wants more study on short-term rentals

August 10, 2023 - Mayor Donnie Tuck announced Wednesday that Council would hit the pause button on short-term rental use permits until they can hear more legal and policy advice and further study questions of density and impact to residential neighborhood...

Police chief describes steps to address rise in crime

Aug. 10, 2023 — New Police Chief Jimmie Wideman updated City Council on crime in the city on Wednesday night, describing steps the Hampton Police Division will take to address a rise in violent crime that mirrors national trends. After a 4.7% decrease in ...

Nonprofit helps residents learn about, install solar panels

Aug. 1, 2023 - The city of Hampton is partnering again with Charlottesville nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) to make adding solar panels more affordable for residents. 

LEAP's Solarize Virginia project began in 2014 and has ...

Hampton native Wideman sworn in as chief of police

 July 28, 2023 — Hampton native Jimmie Wideman was sworn in on Friday afternoon as the chief of police in his hometown.

 Wideman follows former chief Mark Talbot, who was hired in 2021 after a search process in which Wideman was...

All-America City fun planned: Speedway, fireworks, parade theme

July 18, 2023 - Hampton was named one of 10 All-America Cities this year because of our extensive community engagement and input, especially with young people. Because this is a community award, not just a government award, the community is invited to joi...

UPDATE: Outlook Beach at Fort Monroe cleared by Health Department

EARLIER June 21, 2023– The Health Department has issued a swimming advisory for the beach at Fort Monroe due to bacteria levels that exceed the state water quality standards for swimming. Water samples from Hampton's other beaches meet ...

Retiring Superintendent Dr. Jeffery Smith named as head of Air & Space center

June 22, 2023 - A nationally recognized educator has been selected as the next executive director of the Virginia Air & Space Science Center, announced Board President L’Allegro Smith. Dr. Jeffery Smith, retiring superintendent of Hampton City Schools...

'Strategic visionary' Jimmie Wideman named Hampton police chief

June 28, 2023 - Jimmie Wideman, a lifetime Hampton resident and experienced leader in law enforcement, has been named Hampton’s new police chief. Two years ago, Wideman was the second-ranked candidate for the chief job and was very highly regard...

Historic carousel will stay in current waterfront location

June 16, 2023 — City Council heard public comment on the historic carousel at its legislative session on Wednesday night and then declined to take any action that would  move the amusement park ride.

“Consideration of whether to relocate the Hampt...

Dr. Jeffery Smith receives Distinguished Citizen Medal for school transformation

June 14, 2023 – City Council has awarded retiring Superintendent Dr. Jeffery Smith the Distinguished Citizen Medal - the city's highest honor. Under Smith’s leadership, the city school system has been recognized as a national ...

Expect to see more food trucks in Hampton

June 14, 2023 — The City of Hampton is allowing food trucks in more parts of the city and is streamlining the permitting process for food truck owners.

Previously, food trucks were only allowed in certain retail areas that allowed “outd...

Hampton gets national honor for youth engagement

June 12, 2023 — Hampton was named an All-America City by the National Civic League, one of the top 10 in the country. The designation was conferred on Sunday evening at an awards ceremony in Denver.

The award highlights communities that involve and engage ...

Hampton gets $4.6 million for violence prevention, neighborhood safety

April 10, 2023 -  Hampton will receive a $4.6 million federal Byrne Discretionary Grant to be used in the city’s violence-prevention efforts. U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, who secured the funds, presented Mayor Donnie Tuck and the city with a ...

Hampton Public Library drops overdue fines, adds text communication

April 6, 2023 — Hampton’s libraries will no longer charge late fees for overdue books. They are also adding the ability to communicate with customers by text and email.

 “This will eliminate a big barrier for families...

Events for all ages will showcase Youth Violence Prevention Week

April 3, 2023 - Hampton will come together to mark Youth Violence Prevention Week with events that educate, remember victims, share resources, offer recreation, and, ultimately pull the community together in expressions of unity and hope.

Hopeful Hampton’s...

Hampton named a finalist for All-America City Award

March 28, 2023 - Hampton has been named as a finalist for the All-America City competition. The All-America City Award, presented by the National Civic League, recognizes communities that leverage civic engagement, collaboration, inclusion and innovation ...

Mosaic festival celebrates cultures, history, and the Earth on April 22

March 23, 2023 - The Hampton Mosaic Festival combines elements from the International Children's Festival, Heritage Day, Earth Day celebrations, and adds more art and interactivity. The new, combined festival will be held April 22 from 10 p.m. to...

Dates set for input on future of Hampton's carousel

March 15, 2023 — Community discussions about the future of the historic carousel will be held March 23 and 28. The Downtown Hampton Development Partnership has asked the City Council to move it to make room for a larger waterfront park.

Tom Tingle, archite...

Polling on the city's upcoming budget available through March 20

March 15, 2023 - Work to develop next year's budget is under way, and residents can offer their views in an online informal survey. City Manager Mary Bunting seeks input before her recommended budget is developed to ensure it includes residents&a...

Violent crimes were down in 2022, but 2023 starts with a spike

Feb. 8, 2023 – Police Chief Mark Talbot gave an update to City Council about crime in 2022 that started with some good news.

Statistics show that murders were down 25% over 2021. Robberies decreased by 12%. Property crimes were up at total of 16%...

City's home values increased again in 2022; tax rate decrease will be recommended

Feb. 8, 2023 – The value of homes in Hampton increased again during 2022, according to a report by Assessor Libby Griebel. The median sale price rose to $253,000.

In fact, 96.6% of residential properties saw increases, with the mean or average va...

Teens can be paid ambassadors for city anti-violence program

Feb. 7, 2023 - The Hopeful Hampton Ambassador program is a 12-week initiative for local youth aged 16-19 to earn money and raise awareness about the impact of youth violence. 

The program runs from March 6 to June 8, two days a week, from 5–8:15 p...

Council approves $100 million development for former Lincoln Park site

Feb. 9, 2023 — The City Council has approved a $100 million proposal by developer Axis Global Enterprises to redevelop the former site of the Lincoln Park housing development on LaSalle Avenue. The new development, called Olde Hampton Village, w...

City creates escalating penalty for violations of trash regulations

Jan. 13, 2023 - In an effort to control increasing costs of trash collection, Hampton will begin issuing violations and fines for customers who fail to follow the regulations.

These measures will go into effect July 1 to give residents time to get better a...

New rules allow Airbnbs, VRBOs easier path to be licensed to operate in Hampton

Dec. 16, 2022 - City Council created a pathway for people who own houses that they rent through such sites as Airbnb or VRBO to operate legally. Previously, short-term rentals were only allowed as an “accessory use” to a home that is a...

Hampton named Top 10 Digital City for 20th time

Nov. 10, 2022 - Hampton was once again named a Top 10 Digital City. This is the 20th time the city has been recognized for its innovative use of technology and citizen engagement. 

The rankings are done by the Center for Digital Government, a nati...

Sewer replacement work will create detours on Old Buckroe Road

Oct. 17, 2022 - HRSD crews will be installing sanitary sewer pipelines on Old Buckroe Road, forcing a road closure for through traffic that is expected to last for a year. Work is expected to begin this week near Colonial Acres Drive.

During this work, mot...

Free grand opening events for Aquaplex swim center on Oct. 29

Oct. 12, 2022 — The city's new two-pool swimming center will hold a free celebration Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with demonstrations, refreshments, games, and entertainment. 

The program will feature Olympic gold ...

UPDATE: Winds shift, sparing Hampton from severe flooding; shelter closing

Oct. 3 — A change the wind direction meant Hampton was spared the severe flooding that was predicted a day ago. Instead of seeing a high tide of 6.9 feet, Monday's high crested just above 5 feet. There was street flooding and minor damage, plus heavy wind...

River Street Park closes Tuesday, as part of I-64 widening project

Aug. 31, 2022 - Downtown's River Street Park will be closed beginning Tuesday, Sept. 6, as part of the widening of Interstate 64, which will connect to the expanded Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel. The park is located at the intersection of River Str...

Poll workers needed to staff precincts on Election Day

Aug. 31, 2022 - The Hampton Voter Registrar’s Office is looking for dedicated people to serve the democratic process by serving as election officials on Election Day.  

The polls open on Election Day at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.; however, electio...

UPDATE: Swimming advisory lifted for Buckroe Beach

Aug. 24, 2022 – The Health Department has issued a swimming advisory for the central part of beach due to levels of bacteria levels that exceed the state water quality standards for swimming.

Buckroe is segmented, so bacteria levels could affect the entire...

REPAIRED: Gas leak closes Hardy Cash-Executive intersection

Aug. 23 - UPDATE: Repairs have been made. The intersection of Hardy Cash and Executive drives is now open after a gas line was repaired.

Planning Commission will consider additional apartments at Peninsula Town Center

Sept. 19, 2023 - Additional apartments and townhouses for Peninsula Town Center are on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting on Thursday. The meeting begins at 3:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 22 Lincoln St. It is open to the publ...

Hampton gets $13 million toward Armistead Ave. flood reduction

Aug. 31, 2023 - Hampton will receive more than $13 million toward the project to rebuild a portion of Armistead Avenue that frequently floods. It was by far the largest of the 17 hazard mitigation grants announced this week. 

The grant funding is ...

Hampton called “a national leader” at groundbreaking for Lake Hampton resiliency project

Aug 18, 2023 – Hampton broke ground Friday morning on the first of three innovative resiliency projects designed primarily to reduce the impact of flooding on the area around Newmarket Creek. 

“These projects aim for innovative...

Expect to see more food trucks in Hampton

June 14, 2023 — The City of Hampton is allowing food trucks in more parts of the city and is streamlining the permitting process for food truck owners.

Previously, food trucks were only allowed in certain retail areas that allowed “outd...

Polling on the city's upcoming budget available through March 20

March 15, 2023 - Work to develop next year's budget is under way, and residents can offer their views in an online informal survey. City Manager Mary Bunting seeks input before her recommended budget is developed to ensure it includes residents&a...

New rules allow Airbnbs, VRBOs easier path to be licensed to operate in Hampton

Dec. 16, 2022 - City Council created a pathway for people who own houses that they rent through such sites as Airbnb or VRBO to operate legally. Previously, short-term rentals were only allowed as an “accessory use” to a home that is a...

Planning Commission will consider additional apartments at Peninsula Town Center

Sept. 19, 2023 - Additional apartments and townhouses for Peninsula Town Center are on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting on Thursday. The meeting begins at 3:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 22 Lincoln St. It is open to the publ...