July 2026

Update from the President & CEO: 

Friends of the Gateway Region,



Momentum is exciting, but momentum alone doesn't create jobs or strengthen communities. What matters is turning opportunity into action. And across Virginia's Gateway Region, that's exactly what's happening.


This month, we're highlighting projects that have moved well beyond the announcement stage. In Petersburg, construction continues on the new courthouse complex and the permanent Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia, two transformative investments that will serve residents, attract visitors and support downtown growth. In Prince George County, a new speculative industrial building is creating ready-to-occupy space for future employers. And at Virginia State University, a new residence hall will welcome hundreds of students while supporting the university's continued growth and its role in developing tomorrow's workforce - and a new admissions facility is also under construction.


These projects represent more than new buildings. They send a powerful message to businesses, developers and investors that this is a region where projects move forward, partnerships deliver and communities are committed to growth. Every crane on the skyline is another sign that Virginia's Gateway Region is investing in its future.



Success has a way of building on itself. As these projects become reality, they create new momentum, attract new investment and reinforce what we already know: Virginia's Gateway Region is a place where progress isn't just promised – it's happening.



Keith Boswell

President & CEO

Connecting VGR to the Global Life Sciences Community

Last month in San Diego, Alex Wood represented VGR at BIO 2026, the world's largest biotechnology convention, bringing together more than 20,000 biotechnology and pharmaceutical executives, researchers, investors and economic development leaders from around the world. The conference opened with a Virginia breakfast hosted by our colleagues at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership – a strong reminder that collaboration is one of the state's greatest competitive advantages.



From pharmaceutical manufacturing to emerging life sciences opportunities, we're proud to help showcase why VGR is a place where companies can innovate, invest and grow.

Port of Virginia Project Delivers Deepest East Coast Shipping Channel

With completion of the Norfolk Harbor dredging project, Virginia is now home to the deepest commercial shipping channel on the East Coast – another investment that strengthens the Commonwealth’s logistics and manufacturing advantages. The Port of Virginia is an investor and valued partner in our region. Together, we're building the infrastructure and connectivity businesses need to compete globally.

 

Read more


Strong Economic Development Starts with Strong Relationships

VGR's Alex Wood traveled to Toronto for FABTECH Canada, one of North America's premier events focused on manufacturing, fabrication and industrial innovation. As advanced manufacturing continues to evolve, we must stay connected to the companies, technologies and trends shaping the industry's future. Events like FABTECH provide valuable opportunities to build relationships, gain market intelligence and share the advantages that make Virginia's Gateway Region an attractive location for growth.


Gaining Insights on Turning Brownfields into New Opportunities

VGR's Amy Everett joined economic development, environmental and redevelopment professionals from across the state at the 2026 Virginia Brownfields Conference in Staunton last month. The conference provided valuable insights into emerging trends, best practices and tools that can help communities transform underutilized properties into sites ready for new investment and growth. 


Networking Event Connects Sussex Business, Community Leaders

VGR's Amy Everett recently participated in the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce's Coffee Connections breakfast, hosted at Schultz Lawnscapes. The networking event brought together business and community leaders to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships.

More News Headlines from June

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