South Norfolk Jordan Bridge Is a Prime Example of How Chesapeake and the Way We Do Business Have Changed

ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Message from the Mayor

Welcome to our inaugural report, in collaboration with Inside Business, which highlights Chesapeake’s remarkable achievements. Despite the challenges of a less than robust economy that may have adversely affected other cities, Chesapeake has been able to grow more than $135 million in business investment and create 600 new jobs. Like all of Hampton Roads, our City also benefits from a strong military presence. Prime examples are the opening of a new Coast Guard Retail Exchange, not to mention the Coast Guard Finance Center’s decision to renew its lease and remain one of Chesapeake’s major PRODUCTION COORDINATION employers. City of Chesapeake Chesapeake also is re-engineering practices that might have worked well yesterday, but Economic Development Dept. don’t make sense in a rapidly changing economic climate that demands new ways of thinking. 757-382-8040 www.yeschesapeake.com The new South Norfolk Jordan Bridge is a prime example of how Chesapeake and the way we do business have changed. Where once a bridge application could have languished on a desk Public Communications Dept. 757-382-6241 for up to 15 years, this one was signed, sealed and delivered in less than a year. www.cityofchesapeake.net By using technology and the latest advances in e-government, Chesapeake also is quickly ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER moving toward the day when our City will be open for business on a 24/7 basis. Services such Mike Herron as online permitting and real-time information are but two examples. Inside Business Looking forward, our commitment to our citizens and those who do business in 757.222.3991 Chesapeake remains undiminished. SPECIAL PUBLISHING MANAGER I have said it many times before and I will say it again now: Chesapeake is open for Olga Currie business. Today, I invite you to join us on this journey, as together we build on our EDITOR accomplishments to maintain the quality of life and prosperity we’ve come to expect in Stacey Enesey Klemenc Chesapeake. 757.427.6355

GRAPHIC DESIGN Pico Design & Illustration www.picodesign.net Alan P. Krasnoff, Mayor 757.493.0370

DIRECTOR OF SALES Bill Blake 757.222.3165

ADVERTISING SALES Inside Robin Simmons 3 Community Overview John Kinsley 4 Chesapeake is BUSINESS MANAGER Open for Business Debbi Wilson 6 Business Overview PHOTOS COURTESY OF: 11 Transportation City of Chesapeake, VA 12 Technology Chesapeake Companies 13 Sustainable Environment Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation 14 Education Inside Business 15 Workforce Vincent Schilling Tidewater Builders Association 16 Neighborhoods Chesapeake City Council (from left) Vice Mayor Dr. John Van Horn Photography and Housing Virginia Economic Development Authority M. deTriquet, Dwight M. Parker, C.E. “Cliff” Hayes Jr., 17 Hospitality Patricia Pritchard Willis, Mayor Alan P. Krasnoff, S.Z. Inside Business 18 Lifestyle “Debbie” Ritter, Bryan L. Collins, Dr. Ella Ward and Dr. 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Richard W. West. Norfolk, VA 23510 19 Public Safety 757.222.5353 20 Quick Facts

Community Overview

Chesapeake: The Hub of Hampton Roads

ince its formation in 1963 from the merger of Norfolk County and the City S of South Norfolk, Chesapeake has grown to become the third-largest city in Virginia in terms of population and one of the Commonwealth’s most geographically diverse cities. From the bustling urban center of Greenbrier to the pastoral quiet of Hickory, there truly is something for everyone in Chesapeake. Chesapeake’s 353 square miles sit at the heart of Hampton Roads, making it both a center for business and commerce and a hub for easy access to the region’s many amenities. The City is at once focused on its position in history and the expansive future that lies ahead. Chesapeake’s Chesapeake’s 353 square miles sit at historic importance the heart of Hampton Roads, making reaches back to Amer- it both a center for business and ica’s founding days commerce and a hub for easy access top national honors 90 companies representing 18 countries, and the crucial Battle to the region’s many amenities. in environmental Chesapeake has the largest concentration of of Great Bridge, often stewardship for many international businesses in Hampton Roads. termed by historians years. Chesapeake also can look with pride to as “the Bunker Hill of the South.” This key But while they are firmly rooted in his- its strong municipal financial picture, being engagement is celebrated annually each tory, Chesapeake residents also are clearly fo- rated as AA+ by Moody’s for several years. December and forms the cornerstone for the cused on their future. Technology is evident Despite the challenges of the current national new Great Bridge Battlefield and Waterways throughout Chesapeake, in ways large and economy, the City continues to find ways to History Center being constructed along the small. In fact, IBM recently named the City maximize its resources and make the best, Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal. of Chesapeake a “Smart City” for its exten- smartest use of taxpayer dollars. Water and the environment are key sive adoption of technology to enhance There’s so much to see, learn, experience players to much of the Chesapeake lifestyle. efficiency and workflow. and enjoy in Chesapeake that we’ve only Residents enjoy hiking, walking, biking and This focus on technology is just one of scratched the surface. For more on all that paddling the Great Dismal Swamp’s many the ways Chesapeake shows it’s open for makes Chesapeake Virginia’s finest city, visit trails and waterways. business. The City continues to streamline www.CityofChesapeake.Net, stop by one of Residents also take great pride in its operations and processes to make doing the many community centers or libraries, or preserving and enhancing the community’s business in Chesapeake as easy and call the City’s Customer Contact Center at natural beauty, with the City having earned attractive as possible. Plus, with more than 382-CITY.

The City of Chesapeake is reviewing and updating the Forward Chesapeake 2026 Comprehensive Plan, which Moving was adopted by City Council on March 9, 2005. This new initiative, called “Moving Forward – Chesapeake 2030,” serves as a blueprint to guide the City’s future growth and land use, as well as guide development in Chesapeake, Forward – during the next 20 years. The plan includes the future land-use plan and master transportation plan. It will be organized into three Chesapeake major themes: sustainability, infrastructure and quality of life. 2030 Six community workshops were held in October 2009 to receive input from citizens and stakeholders on elements of the current plan. Additional workshops are planned for summer 2010, with a public hearing targeted for fall/winter 2010. Additional project information can be found at www.CityofChesapeake.Net/movingforward2030 or you can follow the plan updates on twitter.com/@chesapeake2030.

3 Chesapeake is Open For Business

hesapeake, one of the 100 largest cities in the United States and the third C largest in the Commonwealth, continues to sustain and thrive. In 2009, more than $135 million in investment and 600 new jobs were generated as a result of the City’s economic development business retention and business attraction efforts. Of special note, Chesapeake employers — such as Canon ITS and the U.S. Coast Guard Finance Center, to name a few — also renewed Dollar Tree’s corporate headquarters is located off Volvo Parkway in Chesapeake’s Greenbrier area. their office leases choosing to stay here and re- Usui International Inc. and Electric tain 1,145 jobs and occupy 473,200 total Motor & Contracting Co. Inc. were the top square feet. performers in industrial expansion investment and created or saved the most jobs. Business Highlights Leading the way in 2009, Dollar Tree, Business Attraction with its corporate headquarters in Chesa- Many entities discovered the City is peake, broke into the ranks of the Fortune strategically positioned as a great place to do 500, joining regional neighbors Smithfield At the May 2009 Chesapeake Business Appreci- business and access multiple markets and Foods and Norfolk Southern. The company ation Event, Usui International was named customers. For instance, the U.S. Census Bu- stock was the best-performing stock of 2008, Chesapeake Business of the Year. Usui Interna- reau recently opened a regional office here returning nearly 61 percent to stockholders tional, headquartered in Japan, completed its and RRMM Architects returned to its city of and logging $4.6 billion in revenue. $22 million expansion in Chesapeake by relo- origin after two decades. Closing out the year, Init Inc. was cating and consolidating its operations into the The Chesapeake Economic Develop- awarded a $35 million contract in the Pacific former Johnson Controls building in Cavalier In- ment staff and Hampton Roads Economic Northwest by the Tri-County Metropolitan dustrial Park. Usui has 130 employees, with plans Development Alliance joined as partners to District of Oregon. Init was chosen to provide to add another 65 over a three-year period. travel nationally and globally to spread the an advanced CAD/AVL system in support of word that “Chesapeake is open for business” TRIMET’s fixed-bus operations and light rail More than $135 million in investment and tout the region’s strategic advantages by vehicles. Init specializes in intelligent trans- and 600 new jobs were generated as a visiting international headquarter companies result of the City’s business retention and and site selection consultants. business attractions efforts. Award-winning real estate 2009 Development Chesapeake won nine awards in 11 cate- Highlights portation systems for public transit and re- gories in the 2009 Deals of the Year competi- cently celebrated its 10th anniversary in tion sponsored by the Hampton Roads Company Investment Chesapeake. Association of Commercial Real Estate (HRACRE) and Inside Business — four Usui International $22 million Business Retention Golds, three Silvers and two Bronzes. Gold First Team Auto $18.5 million and Expansion Program winners were the U.S. Coast Guard Finance Tidewater Community College $10.1 million Economic Development staff formally Center, Greenbrier Portfolio, Coast Guard Re- (Regional Automotive Center) structured this program and as a result con- tail Exchange and the new Walgreens in Electric Motor & Contracting Company, Inc. $8.5 million ducted nearly 200 one-on-one business visits, Greenbrier. many of which included Mayor Alan Krasnoff. In 2009, HRACRE honored the TCC Chesapeake Regional Medical Center $6.5 million (Emergency Department) These visits provided insight about Chesa- Regional Automotive Technology Center with peake companies’ products and services so an Award of Excellence as the Best Institu- Comfort Inn & Suites Hotel $7 million staff can continue to devise useful business tional/Public Building. The 30,600-square- Flow Serve $5.5 million programs and helpful resources. Monthly foot, single-story building in Chesapeake’s Edinburgh Commons Retail Center $4 million Economic Development Advisory Committee Oakbrooke office park houses 15 working And, thank you to our Chesapeake companies that (EDAC) meetings also continued and the year garage bays, nine classrooms, faculty offices, choose to renew their leases and remain here equating was rounded out with quarterly business conference facilities and a dedicated car dis- to 473,200 total sq. ft. and 1,145 saved jobs. events and/or workshops. play area. www.yeschesapeake.com For business opportunities in Chesapeake, please email [email protected] or call 757-382-8040.

2010 Annual Report 4 Development and Permits Department is formed In 2009, Chesapeake began a yearlong process to re-engineer the City’s development review practices. The group consisted not only of staff, but a wide range Staying competitive even in a down of members from the business community including, engineers, developers, contrac- economy is important and the Chesapeake tors, and small and large business owners. As a result of this diverse group’s findings, Economic Development Authority’s 120- the Development and Permits Department was formed in 2009. acre Oakbrooke Business and Technology This new department combined two former departments to provide better com- Park continues to garner strong interest. Be- munication within the City, as well as a more comprehensive quality of customer serv- sides the new automotive center, a 60,000- square-foot Children’s Hospital of The King’s ice for residents and businesses. Several key initiatives include construction plan Daughters office building opened, as well as review meetings to expedite approval, a major streamlining of the sewer and water more than 37,000 square feet in new con- acceptance process, and a new tenant build-out Web site. In 2009, the department struction of office and warehouse facilities. issued more than 12,039 permits with a total building permit value of $224,868,168.

Chesapeake is small-business friendly

• The Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads has opened a new satellite office at the Independence Place Building within the offices of the Chesapeake De- partment of Economic Development. The center, an affiliate of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, will have a library geared toward entrepreneurs. It will help give small business owners improved access to the City’s resources and programs. • The City has initiated a Small, Women and Minority-Owned (SWaM) Business Pro- gram that provides education and financial Founded in 2002, T-Solutions. Inc. is a service-disabled vet- opportunities. SWaM education resources eran owned small business that provides maintenance-en- include partnering with the Chamber of gineering consulting services to military clients worldwide. Commerce, the Small Business Develop- T-Solutions was honored by the Virginia Chamber of Com- ment Center and the City’s procurement di- merce as Virginia’s No. 1 fastest-growing company in vision to provide training in the areas of 2007, the third fastest-growing company in 2008 and the licensing, marketing, writing a business 10th fastest-growing company in Virginia in 2009. The plan, opening a business and doing business Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce also recognized T- with the City. Financial resources include Solutions as Chesapeake’s Small Business of the Year for partnering with local banks and state 2009. Pictured here are Madonna Bossa, Mike Chapman, resources that offer lending programs and Jim Todd, Darlene Todd, Katy Lorince, Mike Phillips, Rochelle options for SWaM businesses. Morelan and Maria Bayer.

To promote committed investment partnerships between the City and its business community, the Economic Development Investment Program was amended to benefit both small and large businesses. City Council modified the existing program in July 2009 to allow more businesses Dr. Harry E. Jenkins, D.D.S., of to qualify for the grant. The minimum investment of $5 million and/or the creation of 50 jobs Harry Jenkins Family Dentistry, received the 2009 Virginia Black was reduced to a minimum investment of $500,000 and the creation of at least five new jobs. Expo Chesapeake Business Leader- The company is also required to be in business for at least three years. At least 80 percent of ship Award. the companies in the City are considered to be small businesses.

5 Business Overview Greenbrier: The best keeps getting better

nce the world’s largest outdoor nurs- ery, Greenbrier is now the most pop- O ular business district in Hampton Roads. This dynamic area contains three million square feet of office space, eight million square feet of industrial space and nearly four million square feet of retail space, making it the largest mixed-use development in Hamp- ton Roads. Greenbrier is also home to some of the region’s largest employers such as Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, QVC Chesapeake, HSBC – North America, Cox Communica- Cox Communications’ regional headquarters are in the Greenbrier District. The company is one of the City’s top five major employers. tions, Dollar Tree Stores, Sentara Home Care Services, General Dynamics Information Technology, Canon ITS, First Data Resources, Givens Logistics, Harris Connect, Mitsubishi Chemical America, Cegedim Dendrite, Chubb & Son, Panasonic, American Funds Service Co., Volvo Penta of the Americas and Yupo Corp. America. Financial, technology, defense, office, manufacturing, logistics — all (From left) Steven Wright, director of Chesapeake The new U.S. Coast Guard Retail Exchange — a can be found here. Economic Development; Chesapeake Council- department store in Greenbrier that sells every- With so many retail opportunities, woman Dr. Ella Ward; John Maddux, presi- thing from apparel, designer brand accessories Greenbrier is the place to shop in Hampton dent/CEO of RRMM Architects; Mayor Alan and cosmetics to electronics, appliances and Krasnoff; and Stephen Childs, president of RRMM liquor — celebrated its grand opening in Octo- Roads. Statistics show this area is the No. 1 Design Build LLC, cut the ribbon to RRMM’s new ber 2009. retail destination in the region. Shoppers headquarters. looking for leading national retailers or that special boutique experience will find the right building. It will serve as a trade area for the heart of Greenbrier. Naming rights place in a safe and friendly environment. more than 162,000 eligible customers are still available. Greenbrier Mall recently attracted Jil- within a 12-mile radius. Up to 70 new • RRMM opening – In December 2009, lian’s, an entertainment venue and family jobs have been created. RRMM Architects bid farewell to Norfolk, restaurant, for this very reason. Jillian’s will oc- • Towne Place @ Greenbrier – Kahn Devel- its home for 21 years, and relocated its 85- cupy 25,000 square feet in the former Pic- opment and Bonaventure recently an- person headquarters to a new LEED Sil- cadilly’s Restaurant space with an opening nounced it would build 250 apartment units ver-certified office on Executive Boulevard planned for spring 2010. for this mixed-use project in 2010. Surf in Greenbrier. The new office space gives Highlights of new commercial office and Rider and Spaghetti Eddie’s are two of the the company almost 10,000 square feet retail developments include: newest restaurants to locate here. more than its previous headquarters for a • A new Coast Guard Retail Exchange – • 1100 Volvo Parkway is a brand-new total of 23,000 square feet. The company Open to all branches of the military as 30,000-square-foot Class-A office build- maintains its central location is convenient well as members of the Department of ing completed at the end of 2009. De- for both its clients and employees but, Homeland Security, it occupies the veloped by Davenport Real Estate most importantly, it chose its new location 42,697-square-foot former Circuit City Group, this building sits on 2.6 acres in because the building is LEED certified.

Recognizing the area’s strengths, City Council established a Tax Increment Financing district as a means to help keep Greenbrier a vibrant live/work/play location. Planned projects include improved pedestrian access, parking decks, City Park improvements, a new internal transit system and new streetscapes. Improvements to date include streetscape improvements along Eden Way, with construction planned or under way along Crossways, Kristina, Jarman and Stephanie Way.

2010 Annual Report 6 South Norfolk: The Greening The Gateway at SoNo beckons of Greenbrier

eveloped by Liberty Property First phase of Gateway at SoNo, a mixed-use develop- Trust, Independence Place and ment, which at completion will D Liberty Three are the first LEED consist of 130 condominiums certified buildings in Chesapeake and the and 40,000 sqare feet of of- Hampton Roads region to receive this fice and retail space. The com- designation from the U.S. Green Building bined value of these two projects is over $60 million. Council.

ince the first mound of dirt was moved at the corner of Poindexter Street and S Bainbridge Boulevard, the Gateway at SoNo has been a dream in the making for many in South Norfolk. Jerry Harris, development manager of Harris-Judah Development LLC, says progress couldn’t have happened Streetscape improvements at Poindexter Street without joint cooperation of the community, and Bainbridge Boulevard are examples of the business leaders and the City of Chesapeake. South Norfolk Tax Increment Financing (TIF) dol- Awarded LEED Gold certification in 2009, The neighborhood revitalization project lars at work. Independence Place is a 73,345-square-foot brick-and-metal office building in Battlefield has been years in the making and a huge un- Corporate Center. It has many green features dertaking for Harris and everyone involved. Its including waterless urinals, a white-rubber location is sure to be enhanced after the new membrane roof, energy-efficient glass, advanced Jordan Bridge is constructed. Work should be energy-management system, state-of-the-art tele- completed by 2011. communications, fiber optics, water-efficient The recently opened multi-use/mixed- landscaping, bike racks and reserved parking for income complex now offers retail and profes- Tidewater Staffing Inc., a temporary service fuel-efficient vehicles. Current tenants include the sional office space and condominium lofts provider headquartered in Chesapeake, has Chesapeake Economic Development Department, that will attract new businesses, young pro- consolidated its operation in a brand new two- TEKSystems and Web Teks Inc. fessionals and much-needed revenue for a story building on Poindexter Street. The company community that’s ready for change. provides temporary personnel to clients throughout the Eastern United States. Signs of revitalization can be found all over 130 one- and two-bedroom condominium South Norfolk. The new Oscar Smith Middle units are on the drawing board. School has opened, three new restaurants Signs of revitalization can be found all have opened in less than a year and two over South Norfolk. The new Oscar Smith more are under construction. Middle School has opened, three new restaurants have opened in less than a year and two Taylor Made Diagnostics Inc., which more are under construction. A new insurance operates and manages occupational health clin- company, Buster’s Bistro and the SoNo Flea ics in Hampton Roads, recently opened a new Market have opened up shop on Bainbridge location at the Gateway at SoNo. The company Boulevard. offers a broad range of high-quality, cost-effec- Eden Pellets recently leased 60,000 Liberty Three on Executive Boulevard is a tive, occupational health care services and drug square feet in a building on West Dexter Street 75,000-square-foot LEED Silver-certified of- and alcohol management programs. that once housed Chesapeake Hardwood fice building with lakefront views, walking The developer, the Virginia Housing De- Products. Company owners plan to hire 20 trails and state-of-the-art telecommunica- velopment Authority and the City are very workers and spend $6 million to start a wood tions. Centro Trade, Devry University, Keller committed to revitalizing South Norfolk. pellet manufacturing business that will pro- Graduate School of Management, RRMM Much more is planned for the Poindexter cor- duce wood pellets for horse bedding and burn- Architects, The Capital Group Cos. Inc. and Virginia Business Bank are current tenants. ridor and additions to Gateway that will add able pellets to produce energy. They hope to more retail and office space. Plus, plans for have operations up and running by April 2010.

7 Business Overview

Western Branch: Crossroads of commerce

ith the various transportation assets in Western Branch — I-664, W Hampton Roads Executive Air- port and Rt. 58 and 460 interchange at Bower’s Hill — it’s no wonder it remains the commercial center in western Hampton Roads. And although this area has encoun- tered several challenges in 2009, the future looks bright as many public projects are under way or in the final planning stages that will continue to encourage private investment in the district. The Department of Public Works has secured the necessary federal funding to widen and improve First Automotive Group transformed a former Lowe's on Western Branch Portsmouth Boule- Boulevard into one of the largest Toyota showrooms in Virginia and the vard from the I-664 largest Scion showroom in the U.S. This location serves as First Team's interchange to the corporate headquarters. Suffolk line. Public works is working with Chesapeake Square Shoppes VDOT to finalize traffic counts and the project is entering the de- the United States. The project created 85 sign phase. high-paying jobs. The 85,000-square-foot Western Branch High School is currently dealership also serves as First Team’s corpo- undergoing an approximate $29 million ex- rate headquarters. pansion and upgrade, with the anticipated Other recent successes include the completion date in the fourth quarter of Chesapeake Square Shoppes, anchored by 2010. The new school will accommodate ABNB Federal Credit Union and Five Guys 2,400 students and technology upgrades will Burgers. Dollar Tree Market and Tuesday equal those at Grassfield High School. Morning will open in the former Circuit City Brothers John and Kirk Galiani, Onelife Fitness Center (formerly Gold's Gym); Chesapeake Global and national market forces also space, while the Department of Economic De- Mayor Alan Krasnoff; Chesapeake City Council- had an impact on Western Branch, anchored velopment continues its work with Simon Prop- woman Dr. Ella Ward; and Robin Tull, Chairman by Chesapeake Square Mall. Significant clo- erties to fill the former Dillard’s locations. The of the Board, Chesapeake Regional Medical sures included two of the mall’s anchor ten- Dragas Cos. will begin construction on a 416- Center, cut the ribbon to Onelife's new 60,000 ants, the Dillard’s East and South stores. unit condominium complex that includes a 4.2- sq ft facility. Circuit City’s bankruptcy forced the store at acre parcel for future commercial development. space. Kotarides Development also is plan- Crossroads Center at Chesapeake Square to On the west side of I-664, which is part of ning a 304-unit apartment complex as part of close. City leadership has taken a pro-active the Chesapeake Square submarket, the City the new community. stance and made the continued vibrancy of has prospered with the opening of Onelife Fit- Economic Development also has set its the Western Branch commercial sector a pri- ness (formerly Gold’s Gym) and a Cracker sight on two major properties along Portsmouth ority by working with various stakeholders. Barrel. There also are several new tenants at Boulevard. The largest property is the 250-acre The private sector has taken notice and the Shops at Chesapeake Square including a Pine Grove development. Preliminary plans call despite the recession, Western Branch has ex- Huntington Learning Center, ERA Residen- for residential and commercial development, perienced a surge of new business. The First tial Brokerage office and a day-spa. including an 80-acre parcel that’s ideal for of- Team Automotive Group invested approxi- Proposed developments in the Chesa- fices for defense contractors and modeling and mately $18.5 million to acquire and transform peake Square market include Wirth Devel- simulation companies. A second property of a former Lowe’s on Western Branch Boule- opment’s Jolliff Landing, which will include about 150 acres, known as the Boyd property, vard into one of the largest Toyota showrooms 84 townhomes, 20,000 square feet of office is ideal for a commerce park or mixed-use in Virginia and the largest Scion showroom in space and 100,000 square feet of commercial development.

2010 Annual Report 8 College District: Growing at a healthy pace

he Tidewater Community College Chesapeake Campus is the fastest-grow- T ing campus in the TCC system, having grown more than 63 percent over the last five years. The 70-acre site is located between the rapidly growing communities of Great Bridge and Deep Creek. It serves as the anchor for the business area known as the College District. Home to more than 13,000 students, this campus offers a variety of educational opportunities for transfer degree preparation, career development and technical training. Courses of study include Accounting, Administration of Justice, Administrative Support Tech, Business TCC Chesapeake Campus Management and Administration, Childhood Development, Communication Studies and Theater, Electrical Technology, and Health. Besides the TCC campus, the College District also includes Dominion Commerce Park, a 239-acre private development that fea- Dominion Business tures a new 38,000-square-foot multitenant Center industrial building and a new 20,000-square- foot multitenant Class-A office building, both with flexible floor plans. Current tenants in- • Mobile Satellite Technologies expanded Across the street, Grassfield High School, clude Hearndon Construction Corp., Ander- its operations and relocated from its a state-of-the-art facility, is designed for 2,400 son-Douglas Inc., Crossfit Chesapeake, Greenbrier location to a new 13,200- students in grades nine through 12. Grassfield Edward Jones and Sentara Physical Therapy. square-foot building in the park. features four academic quads which houses In addition, Dominion Commerce Park • Chesapeake Montessori, now located in classrooms, a 2,000 seat gymnasium, media has a variety of land opportunities ranging Great Bridge, is currently building a new center, food court and a 1,001 seat audito- from 1 to 150 acres for sale. Recent construc- 15,000-square-foot school scheduled to be rium. Chesapeake Public Schools’ Technology tion activity includes: completed this summer. Academy is also at this location. Great Bridge: Where history comes to life

t’s no secret Great Bridge is the site of one of the most important battles in our nation’s I founding. It’s also no surprise that Great Bridge plays a key role in the founding of Chesa- peake. Home to the City’s sprawling Municipal Center, this district is frequented daily by residents and companies conducting their day-to-day business and patronizing various restaurants and retail establishments. Locke’s Point Park — located along the Plans are currently under way to create the Historic Battlefield District as part of Great Bridge Village. A joint venture of Chesapeake, the Army Corps of Engineers and the Great Bridge Battlefield & Intracoastal Waterway — remains the dis- Waterways History Foundation, the park will encompass the four quadrants of land that surround the trict’s focal point and gives Great Bridge its intersection of Battlefield Boulevard and the canal at Great Bridge. In 2009, the foundation broke ground character and maritime feel. on what will be the centerpiece of the park — a 12,000-square-foot visitor’s center/museum. Recent progress in Great Bridge includes Kelly’s Tavern, which opened in the old Center. The City’s Department of Public Great Bridge Village and address needed Locke’s Point restaurant site, and Chili’s, Works also has made significant traffic im- drainage improvements. which opened in the Great Bridge Shopping provements to enhance the “walkability” of the

9 Business Overview

Deep Creek and South Military Highway: Business is good in Deep Creek, home to 2009 Homearama

avalier Industrial Park, located off South Military Highway, continues to C provide a strong industrial tax base for the City with over 100 companies in the park. In 2009, the City’s top two industrial business expansions occurred here. Usui International completed its $22 million total investment in the former Johnson Controls building off Cook Boulevard. Electric Motor & Contract- ing Co. is moving forward with its $8.5 million investment, expanding its facilities with an additional 52,000 square feet. Electric Motor & Contracting Co. Inc.’s $8.5 million expansion will add on 52,000 square feet Developers Dilip R. Patel and Hampton to its existing 110,000-square-foot facility. According to Steve Newing, EMC president, “We Roads Hospitality Inc. wanted to provide a looked at many options when considering our current expansion, including relocating our much-needed, mid-priced hotel facility to the entire company. After reviewing these options, and considering our positive business relation- ship with the City of Chesapeake for the last 25 years, we made the decision to leave our head- In February 2010, the Comfort Inn and Suites quarters in Chesapeake and continue our growth in this area.” officially opened on South Military Highway as part of the Choice Hotels International chain, bringing $7 million in investment and 25 new jobs.

Military Highway/Deep Creek area. In Febru- ary 2010, the Comfort Inn and Suites officially opened on South Military Highway as part of the Choice Hotels International chain, bringing $7 million in investment and 25 new jobs. At Cavalier Industrial Park, Bay Warehouse, owned by First Potomac Trust, completely leased The adjacent restaurant/lounge is currently units 94,330-square-foot and 396,000-square-foot buildings in 2009. Newly signed tenants are dergoing renovation and is planned to open in Cort Business Systems, Ehrlich Distribution and Flow Serve. Harrison Moving and Storage also June 2010. A 100- to 150-seat function meet- leased overflow warehouse space. First Potomac Trust owns and leases a total of 2,864,206 ing room will complete the full-service aspect square feet in Chesapeake. of the hotel, appealing to both local businesses as well as social and tour groups. Landing. Twelve custom homes, six of which pedestrian-friendly design that incorporates Despite a less than stellar housing mar- were already sold when the event kicked off, community buildings with parks, open spaces ket, the Deep Creek area of Chesapeake was were showcased Oct. 3-18 at the 488-acre res- and neighborhood gardens. When complete, chosen by Tidewater Builders Association to idential development. Home prices ranged its mercantile district will encompass 40,000 host Homearama 2009 which showcased the from around $230,000 to about $500,000. square feet of commercial office and retail Robinson Development Group’s Culpepper Culpepper Landing features a mixed-use, space.

he Gilmerton Bridge, a major transportation artery in the Deep Creek and South Military Highway area, is T currently being replaced. This $158 million project will be open for traffic in 2013.

2010 Annual Report 10 Transportation

Two new bridges are on Chesapeake’s horizon

n the near future, Chesapeake will welcome two replacement bridges over the I Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River. The $100 million South Norfolk Jordan Bridge project, which will connect South Nor- folk to Portsmouth, will be a privately funded toll span built by Figg Bridge Developers, a company that’s been designing and building bridges for 30 years. Electronically monitored tolls are projected to be about $2. At 145 feet tall, the new bridge will provide unrestricted water and highway access. Work should be completed by 2011. The old Jordan Bridge, located at Poindexter Street in South Norfolk west of I- 464, was closed in November 2008 because of safety concerns. Built in 1928, it was the

Jordon Bridge The $100 million South Norfolk Jordan Bridge project, which will connect South Norfolk to Portsmouth, will be a privately Boulevard update funded toll span built by Figg Bridge De- velopers, a company that’s been designing Another critical transportation project, and building bridges for 30 years. Dominion Boulevard, continues to be a top priority for the City with an estimated oldest operating lift bridge in Virginia. Each budget of $437 million. The project’s de- year, it lifted more than 10,000 times to make sign is 60 percent complete, with the de- way for in excess of 21,500 marine vessels. sign plans targeted to be finished by About 7,000 commercial vehicles and com- Gilmerton Bridge December 2010. muters used the bridge daily. The Gilmerton Bridge replacement is fully funded and construction has begun. The its closed position, requiring less openings Bridge will open for traffic replacing the exist- new bridge will be four lanes with growth po- which will result in fewer disruptions to road- ing double-leaf bascule bridge constructed in tential of up to six lanes. The vertical lift will way users. 1938. The new four-lane, lift-span bridge will be approximately 35-feet above the water in In 2013, the $158 million Gilmerton be operated by the City of Chesapeake.

Chesapeake is the transportation hub of the region, • I-64 originates in Chesapeake, and I-264, I-464 linked to one of the most modern interstate and state and I-664 also serve the City. highway systems in the country. • U.S. Route 58 connects Chesapeake to the princi- • Typical commute to work is only 21.6 minutes. pal north/south highways on the East Coast: I-95 and I-85. • Norfolk International Airport is only 20 minutes away, offering more than 250 daily flights. • U.S. Route 13 connects the City to Virginia’s East- ern Shore. • Chesapeake Regional and Hampton Roads Executive Airports provide corporate flight service • The Chesapeake Expressway (Route 168) is a 16- within the City. mile-long, four-lane divided highway that links I-64 to North Carolina and the Outer Banks.

11 Technology

IBM recognizes Chesapeake as a ‘Smarter City’

n December 2009 at “Smarter Cities — City of Chesapeake — Summit for Indus- I try Leaders,” IBM recognized Chesapeake as a “Smarter City” for using technology to better serve the community. The City implemented an asset management program called Maximo that allows precise tracking of everything from water pipes to police dogs. This recognition has resulted in worldwide attention. IBM made the announcement in front of an audience of nearly 40 City leaders, Council Members, and area business leaders. The summit, hosted at the City’s newly opened eco-friendly Economic Development Department headquarters, included presen- tations by IBM Regional Executive Dom Cottone, Chesapeake Mayor Alan P. Krasnoff, At a leadership summit press conference in December 2009, Chesapeake Council Member C. E. “Cliff” City Manager William Harrell and Chief In- Hayes Jr. addresses (from left) City Manager William Harrell, Chesapeake Mayor Alan P. Krasnoff, CIO formation Officer Peter Wallace. Peter Wallace and IBM Regional Executive Dom Cottone. The City also was featured at IBM’s Pulse Conference this year in Las Vegas. road. If it’s an equipment part, it can be pur- More than 5,000 people watched a video chased together with other departments to Chesapeake companies that about Chesapeake’s efforts and heard from get the best price. In cases where there’s an one of the project leaders. emergency need, having a city-wide inven- achieved significant milestones Every major Chesapeake City depart- tory means that public works can check the in the technology arena include: ment uses IBM Maximo to maintain and inventory of public utilities to see if it has the manage the vital assets and City resources needed item. The replacement of items that responsible for Public Utilities, Police, Fire, expire can be anticipated and included in Public Works, Facilities and Parks and Recre- the budget. • Cegedim Dendrite ranked 49th on ation. The software allows the City to keep According to IBM, “The City of Chesa- the 2009 edition of Software Top track of all assets, from water lines to vehicles, peake, with technology and services from 100, the leading and independent but the real benefit comes when that informa- IBM, is a leading example of a truly inter- online review of the world’s largest tion is used to make smarter decisions. It allows connected and intelligent city. The commit- software companies. the City to anticipate what will be needed. ment and understanding of the value of If it’s vehicle maintenance, it can be technology from the mayor, City manager planned for a time when the vehicle isn’t in and CIO clearly pulsates to all branches and use instead of when it’s on the side of the departments across the city.”

• Canon Information Technology Serv- Permits now available online ices was recognized in PC Maga- In a first within the region, the City of Chesapeake has launched a new serv- zine’s Annual Readers Choice Survey ice that opens Chesapeake for business 24/7. The Ez-Permit Center enables busi- as providing the best level of techni- nesses and residents to apply for and receive City permits online. This process is part cal support and customer service in of an initiative to encourage business development by streamlining the process of the camera and printer category. doing business in Chesapeake. Canon ITS has received this honor for Launched in March, the service will enable users to secure certain permits the past six consecutive years — and anytime without a trip to City Hall. Plumbing permits were the first available, with is going for seven in 2010. more to be added soon.

2010 Annual Report 12 Sustainable Chesapeake

Green practices are here with more to come

broader agenda of environmental leadership was officially endorsed when the A Chesapeake City Council adopted the City’s first sustainability plan Dec. 15, 2009. An outcome of the Sustainable Chesa- peake Initiative Committee formed in 2008, the plan provides a roadmap toward making the City a more environmentally sustainable community, with both long- and short-term goals. Seven major focus areas have been iden- tified to launch the City’s green practices: fuels/vehicles/emissions, green infrastructure, green purchasing/acquisition, sustainable buildings and resource conservation, recycling/ waste prevention, education/awareness and water quality. In 2007 the City joined the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and adopted a green-building policy requiring all new city- funded buildings of 5,000 square feet or more Construction of the City’s first building designed to meet LEED standards is expected to begin in April to be built to meet the criteria of the USGBC 2010. Chesapeake’s new 31,500-square-foot animal services facility will be built on a brownfields site Leadership for Energy and Environmental and will include an array of green features, including passive solar water heating, rainwater Design (LEED) Certification Program. Con- harvesting, daylighting, low/no VOC interior finishes, energy-efficient HVAC system, energy-efficient T-8 fluorescent lights, and a white reflective “cool” roof. struction of Chesapeake’s first LEED-certified municipal building will begin in 2010. buildings, energy awareness training, a Listed below are a few accomplishments solar photovoltaic project, development of and ongoing initiatives: a Comprehensive Energy Master Plan for City operations and other items. The City In October 2009, Chesapeake Economic is also collaborating with Norfolk and Vir- Development located its office to ginia Beach to develop a regional green- Independence Place, the region’s first Gold house gas inventory. Level LEED Certified Building constructed • Central Fleet has received the Environ- and owned by Liberty Property Trust. mental Enterprise designation from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Environmental Excellence Pro- • Chesapeake participated in the Virginia gram. The environmentally friendly City Municipal League (VML) “Green Gov- fleet contains hybrid and flex-fuel vehicles, ernment Challenge,” a friendly competi- with some using biodiesel. tion among Virginia local governments to encourage specific environmental poli- • Chesapeake will complete work on an cies/practices that reduce carbon emis- Urban Forest Management Plan in 2010. sions. Chesapeake was one of only 26 This is a first for the City and Hampton Virginia local governments VML desig- Roads region. nated as a “Green Government” in 2008. Progress toward meeting the plan goals as The City received the designation again well as updates will be summarized annually in TFC Recycling was awarded the contract to collect in 2009. a report titled “The State of Chesapeake’s En- and dispose of the City’s recyclable products. In November 2009, Chesapeake enhanced its bi- • Department of Energy Block Grant – vironment.” For further information on this ini- weekly curbside recycling program and transi- tiative, check out the Sustainable Chesapeake Chesapeake staff applied for and was tioned from 18-gallon bins to 95-gallon rolling awarded a $2.06 million formula grant for Web page at www.CityofChesapeake.Net/ carts. Today, 65,000 households are part of the extensive energy retrofits in up to 40 City services/citizen_info/green/index.shtml. Big Blue Bin recycling effort.

13 Education

Outstanding school system ranks among the best

hesapeake has every reason to be tion rate in the South Hampton proud of its schools and the students Roads area. C who attend them. One reason the Of the 500 graduates re- City is distinguished as such a desirable ceiving college scholarships, place to live and work is that Chesapeake is more than 130 were awarded known for its outstanding school system. scholarships in excess of With an enrollment of almost 39,000 $40,000 each. Career and tech- students, Chesapeake Public Schools is the nical education students earned seventh largest school division in the state and 1,046 industry certifications

They are also the City’s largest employer — with almost 6,000 employees and a budget of $397 million. Athletic success quickly translates into a very positive impact for the community, and The new, $56 million Oscar Smith Middle School, which opened in fall 2009, was built next door to the 2009 proved to be a banner year in the ath- old one in South Norfolk. It serves about 875 students in grades six through eight in the Chesapeake letic arena. Last year, the high schools won Public Schools. four state championships — Girls Softball, Boys Outdoor Track, Theatre and Football.

With a fleet of more than 450 buses traveling more than four million miles per year, the schools operate the City’s largest transportation system.

Academics in Chesapeake are top- notch. Chesapeake students’ performance on Grassfield High School off Dominion Boulevard in Chesapeake is a 347,549-square-foot facility de- the Standards of Learning assessments was signed for up to 2,400 students in grades nine through 12. It is the site of Chesapeake Public Schools' Technology Academy. exceptional. The entire school division is 100 percent fully accredited, achieving this goal the second largest in Hampton Roads. The from industry, trade, professional or state or- two years ahead of the state’s deadline. City boasts 45 public schools and more than ganizations. More than 620 students worked A major challenge to most school divi- 1,600 acres of campus. Its seven high schools in 570 local businesses as part of a marketing sions is the provision of adequate school fa- offer a comprehensive program, including spe- and business education work program. These cilities. However, Chesapeake has made cialized academies such as the International students earned more than $2.4 million in progress to help alleviate overcrowding by Baccalaureate program and the Technology wages, obtained hands-on work experience building two new state-of-the-art schools: Academy. The newest academy, which is in and earned high school credit while also hav- Grassfield High School and Oscar Smith the planning stages, will focus on medicine. ing a positive impact on local businesses. Middle School. In December, the school The seven high schools in Chesapeake The schools contribute greatly to the board approved a Capital Improvement Plan, awarded more than 3,000 diplomas to the local economy in other ways, too. With a fleet which calls for an additional $352 million graduating class of 2009. This class achieved a of more than 450 buses traveling more than over the next five years to go toward three graduation rate of 86.5 percent, a rate higher four million miles per year, the schools oper- new schools and major repairs, moderniza- than the state average and the highest gradua- ate the City’s largest transportation system. tion, and renovations to existing facilities.

2010 Annual Report 14 Workforce

Chesapeake companies still hiring

hesapeake, similar to communities across C the nation, is experi- encing fluctuating unemployment levels. As of December 2009, Chesapeake’s unemployment rate is relatively low at 6.3 percent. The City’s rate fares better than Hampton Roads’ 6.9 percent and Vir- ginia’s 6.8 percent and con- Cox Communications is among the best places to work in ‘It’ Factor Job Club Chesapeake according to Inside Business 2009 Best Places to Work. siderably lower than the (Photo by Vincent Schilling/Inside Business.) launches in Chesapeake nation’s hovering 10 percent unemployment rate. (Source: Jobs EQ.com and • Init Inc. – First-place for the Best Small (From left) Chesapeake-based “It” Factor Job Bureau of Labor Statistics) Company Club co-founders Michelle Pippin and Laurie Baggett chat with Tory Johnson, author of In spite of the challenging economy, new • Sumitomo Drive Technologies – Best “Fired to Hired” and Good Morning employment opportunities for City residents Place to Work and the region were generated by Chesapeake America correspondent, during a book sign- • Damuth Trane – Best Place to Work ing in Chesapeake. Johnson inspired Pippin employers such as QVC, Canon ITS, Chesa- and Baggett to form a local group to help peake Regional Medical Center, Sumitomo • Homeland Contracting Corp. – Best unemployed people find jobs. The 13 original Drive Technologies, TFC Recycling, Coast Place to Work job club members have all netted results by Guard Retail Exchange, Onelife Fitness and • Monarch Bank – Best Place to Work landing new jobs; starting entrepreneurial the U.S. Census Bureau regional office. Job searching can be a SNAP ventures and pursing advanced education. Chesapeake also had seven companies To date, three other job clubs have been To assist unemployed and underemployed out of the top 25 Best Places to Work in the started. (Photo by Vincent Schilling.) region’s Inside Business annual listing in 2009: individuals with online job searching, resume • Cox Communications – Third- Place writing and other job search services, Large Company Chesapeake Public Libraries and Opportunity A $250,000 Workforce Development Inc. have partnered to establish SNAP centers Grant Award (Job Help @ the Chesapeake • UrsaNav Inc. – First- place Mid-sized Public Library) funds a partnership between Company at its library branches at Cuffee, Greenbrier, Indian River, South Norfolk, Central, Russell the library, Tidewater Community College, and Major Hillard. Economic Development, Opportunity Inc., Short for Shared Network Access Points, the Virginia Employment Commission, SNAPs are locally operated one-stop service Chesapeake Adult Continuing Education and points that are part of a statewide workforce other community partners. Together they offer The U.S. Census Bureau opened a 6,600- development initiative. Each SNAP center area residents educational opportunities for square-foot regional office off South Military holds online job-hunting classes where patrons career advancement and a wide range of em- learn how to register and use the system to ployment resources to help them acquire skills Highway in the Deep Creek area with a staff search for jobs. to land new jobs. of 20 new administrative and managerial positions to support the 2010 census operations in 11 counties. An additional 1,100 to 2009 Unemployment Rates Source: JobsEQ(R) & Bureau of Labor Statistics 1,200 temporary workers will be employed 10.0 during the census’ peak operations. 9.0

8.0 Military presence in Chesapeake Chesapeake has contributed to the low unem- 7.0 Hampton Roads Virginia ployment rate with a high rate of 6.0 active duty service members % Unemployed USA choosing to live in the City. 5.0 4.0 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

15 Neighborhoods and Housing

Quality of life is on the rise Homearamas are at home in Chesapeake

With its strong neighborhood and community base, Chesapeake was once again selected by Tidewater Builders Association (TBA) to be the host City for its annual Homearama. Pictured above is Culpepper Landing in the city’s Deep Creek area with home prices ranging from $230,000 to $500,000. The event Of the 28 Homearamas held since the new home showcase began, 15 have been in was held Oct. 3-18, 2009. Chesapeake. One of the sites, Edinburgh Meadows, is pictured here. n 2008, the Alliance for Innovation recog- scores in mathematics, reading and science. nized Chesapeake’s Neighborhood Qual- Called the Heart of Compassion Partner- he very first Homearama was held I ity of Life (QOL) Study with one of its ships, the program also aims to reduce be- in 1982 in Chesapeake’s Bayberry Outstanding Achievement in Local Govern- havioral problems by modeling integrity, T Woods and the most recent was ment Innovation awards. The QOL study is accountability and leadership skills. The pro- held at Culpepper Landing in 2009 in an innovative and practical policy to guide gram supports children’s well-being by pro- the Deep Creek section of Chesapeake. the measurement of neighborhood-level viding a safe environment and an alternative Sponsored by the Tidewater Home quality of life conditions across the City. Its to risky behaviors during out-of-school time Builders Association, the showcase of goal is to increase public awareness and un- during the school year and summer break. new homes annually draws tens of thou- derstanding of critical QOL issues and to The Youth Entertainment Studio (YES) sands of visitors from across the region find solutions to challenges facing the City. Project was awarded a Neighborhood Qual- to view elegantly appointed homes that By working together, citizens, elected offi- ity of Life Enhancement Grant. The YES feature cutting edge treatments and cials, businesses, community groups and project, which targeted youth 13 to 18 years state-of-the-art building techniques. staff can create stronger neighborhoods old, resulted in an original DVD where throughout Chesapeake. youngsters denounce gang involvement Since the study’s findings have been put based on personal experiences. YES also pre- into motion, Chesapeake has received several sented two 10-week gang prevention men- neighborhood QOL grants over the past year. toring programs for young ladies and a Zip it up In Harbour North, driveways have been five-week performing arts and music video paved to eliminate hazardous potholes and a camp. hesapeake’s exceptional upscale neighborhood park has been built with Most recently, the Crossings Civic real estate offerings routinely ex- amenities partially funded by QOL monies. League was awarded a Neighborhood Qual- C ceed those in surrounding Waste collection services have been en- ity of Life Enhancement Grant to repair and Hampton Roads’ communities in both hanced by adding two dumpsters in the improve the neighborhood’s primary entry- value and attractiveness. neighborhood, resulting in reduced litter and way in spring 2010. The grant will pay for re- In the 2009 Inside Business Book of debris. Property maintenance violations have pairs to the neighborhood’s sign, lights at the Lists, a publication of The Virginian- been addressed in response to a code sweep entrance and landscaping for the entryway’s Pilot, four of Chesapeake’s zip code and rental inspection. In June 2009, 31 island. areas were ranked second, sixth, 15th Serve the City volunteers partnered with res- The enhancement program is a compet- and 16th out of the top 21 wealthiest zip idents and repaired 13 homes. All total, 43 itive grant that creates community partner- codes in Hampton Roads — the most projects have been completed. ships, and impacts crime, social, economic listings for any single city in the area. A tutoring and mentoring program that and physical conditions in neighborhoods. All Median household incomes range targets neighborhood youth in Campostella grant monies must be matched by the from $83,312 for the number two spot Square has been established to increase SOL grantee through in-kind donations. to $63,819 for the 16th.

2010 Annual Report 16 Hospitality Events and accommodations lure more people to City

hesapeake has some successes to tout with new hotel openings despite the C economic challenges faced nationally by the tourism industry with low visitation and reduced hotel stays. The opening of five new hotels in late 2008 presented new demand opportunities in Chesapeake for 2009, resulting in increased lodging revenues. The Chesa- peake Marriott, a full-service, seven-story 157,817-square-foot hotel with 226 guest rooms represented a $20 million investment. Other hotel properties opening in late 2008 were the Aloft Hotel, Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn & Suites and the Candlewood Suites. With its central location in the Hampton Roads region, Chesapeake is steadily building The new Chesapeake Marriott Hotel had a full a reputation among first-time and repeat operating year in 2009 and restored much-need tourists and business travelers who bed down lodging revenue to the City. in one of the City’s 4,335 rooms in 44 hotels, 15 of which are located in the Greenbrier The Comfort Inn & Suites on area. In 2009, two new hotels opened in South Military Highway fills the niche for a mid-priced hotel in Chesapeake, the Comfort Inn & Suites and the Deep Creek area. Value Place. With its 124 rooms, Comfort Inn & Suites provides a very welcome, mid-priced other housing solution, Value Place brings 121 Eddie’s is now serving pasta where customers hotel facility in the Military Highway/Deep new rooms to Chesapeake. With a commit- of the Purple Cow once grazed. Creek area. An adjacent restaurant/lounge, ment to guest safety, unmatchable cleaning which will include accommodation for groups standards and so much more, Value Place of- Hospitality highlights of up to 150 people to gather, is currently fers all the convenience of a hotel and all the • Ten City-wide conventions — events that being renovated. It should be open for busi- essentials of a furnished apartment. utilize the Chesapeake Conference Cen- ness in time for the upcoming summer sea- In addition to the two new hotels, vacant ter and one or more hotels — were son, completing the full-service aspect of the restaurants are seeing a resurgence of life. In booked in 2009. hotel. Towne Place, for instance, the local family- • In 2009, lodging tax revenue increased by Whether you’re searching for an ex- owned Surf Rider seafood restaurant has set 5 percent, which added up to nearly tended-stay hotel, a studio apartment or any up shop in the former Sterling’s and Spaghetti $200,000.

The Chesapeake Conference Center The Chesapeake Conference Center is an important tool in the City’s economic development and revenue-generating efforts, hosting approximately 1,800 events annually and generating more than $4.8 million in revenues in fiscal years 2008 and 2009. Each year, more than 100,000 guests are served myriad meals during events that range from elegant receptions for 100 people to multicourse dinner banquets for 1,000 guests. To keep the Conference Center competitive, City staffers are strategically developing a long-range plan to identify building improvements and other enhancements. This meeting facility meets the needs of current and future businesses, organizations and individuals. Signature events are the U.S. 9-Ball Cham- pionship, Chesapeake Regional Medical Center Annual Gala, the Conference Center’s Jingle Ball that’s well attended by local small business owners and employees in Hampton Roads, various Chamber of Commerce events, Chesapeake Rotary events, and a host of social events for business and private clients.

17 Lifestyle 2010 recreational events in Chesapeake offer something for everyone

hesapeake has plenty of entertainment on the books for 2010 for resi- C dents and visitors alike. Headlining this year’s lineup is the ever- American Indian popular Chesapeake Jubilee, selected as one Festival of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Events for May 2010. Thousands flock to Chesapeake City Park at 900 Greenbrier Parkway each spring for this annual four-day festival that has scores of activities and rides, a smorgasbord of tasty temptations and un- forgettable fireworks. Musical acts from all Battle of Great Bridge genres take the stage daily and nightly, while admission is still just $1. The fun this year begins May 20 and runs through May 23. www.ChesapeakeJubilee.org For those interested in a more physically challenging event, consider the Dismal Swamp Stomp Half Marathon April 17. Run- ning along the scenic and flat Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, this annual event highlights the historic Great Dismal Swamp Canal, part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. There’s Symphony Under the Stars Chesapeake Jubilee fireworks also a Half-Mile Cub Run for children 12 and under. www.DismalSwampStomp.com features the renowned U.S. Fleet Forces Dec. 4-5: Battle of Great Bridge Besides celebrating and stomping, here Band. Music starts at 7:30 p.m. Concession are a few other things on this year’s recre- Great Bridge Bridge area, 116 Callison Drive stands are open. Admission is free; $5 fee for ational agenda: Step back in time and witness Revolu- on-site parking. Bring lawn chairs and/or tionary War camp life and re-enactments of blanket. May through September: two pivotal battles: the Battle at Kemps Land- www.CityofChesapeake.Net ing and the Battle of Great Bridge. Historical Under the Stars displays, lectures, artisan demonstrations, Bagley Stage, Chesapeake City Park Sept. 18-19: Heritage Days children’s crafts and activities. Admission is The Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission Chesapeake City Park free for this certified Virginia Green Event. and the Virginia Arts Festival team up to pres- Heritage Days celebrates traditional rural 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ent a series of evening musical performances. skills passed from generation to generation. www.vafest.com Civil War period re-enactments, spinning, For more information or for details about weaving, children’s activities, live music, these and other upcoming events not listed June 5-6: American Indian Festival crafter/vendor tent and farm animals. Free here, call (757)-382-6411 or visit the Web site Chesapeake City Park admission and parking for this certified Vir- at www.CityofChesapeake.Net/ ParksandRec. 14th annual celebration features Ameri- ginia Green Event. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Be sure to visit the many parks, large and can Indian storytelling, traditional dancing, small, spread throughout Chesapeake. From food, jewelry, crafts and demonstrations. Ad- Dec. 4: Holiday Tree Lighting the expansive Northwest River Park to the mission is free. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. City Hall, 306 Cedar Road many neighborhood parks, there’s something www.CityofChesapeake.Net/PRevents The 5 p.m. ceremony kicks off Chesa- for everyone. Coming in 2010, the new Deep peake’s holiday season just before the Great Creek Park will begin construction with ball- July 3: Independence Day Concert Bridge Jaycees’ Parade. Christmas songs will fields, multipurpose areas and much more. Chesapeake City Park be performed by a Chesapeake Public School Be on the lookout for this new highlight to the Holiday concert with a fireworks finale chorus. growing parks family.

2010 Annual Report 18 Public Safety Chesapeake moves police precinct and fire station

The fifth precinct will soon move into the former Chamber of Commerce building.

o allow for more efficient deployment With its new headquarters at 400 Volvo FBI ranks of police officers and firefighters, Parkway, the site of the former Chamber T Chesapeake has relocated or is relocat- of Commerce building, the precinct will ing two public safety facilities. provide residents with a highly visible Chesapeake Chesapeake’s newest fire station opened and permanent home in one of the City’s in March at 1801 Rokeby Ave. Located busiest corridors. very safe across the street from the original station built in October 1951, Chesapeake Fire Sta- The Chesapeake Police Department’s In 2008, the FBI ranked Chesa- tion No. 3 replaces the oldest station in the fifth precinct is scheduled to relocate this peake 58 out of 194 similarly sized cities City. The new 10,000-square-foot building, summer to the heart of the Greenbrier busi- (population of 100,000 to 249,000) for designed by Waller Todd and Sadler Archi- ness area. With its new headquarters at 400 safety. Of the cities nationwide in this tects and constructed by W.B. Meredith II Volvo Parkway, the site of the former Cham- population range, 68 percent have a Inc., is built on 21.5 acres. It is home to 18 ber of Commerce building, the precinct will higher crime index than Chesapeake. fire and emergency medical services person- provide residents with a highly visible and Source: Chesapeake Police Department and the nel who serve the nearby Indian River com- permanent home in one of the City’s busiest FBI National Uniform Crime Report munity and the growing commercial corridors. The fifth precinct is currently off development in that area. Debaun Avenue in a business park.

Crime Reduction Plan is under way The Chesapeake Police Department is committed to implement Chief Kelvin L. Wright’s Crime Reduction Plan. To be successful, they are asking all City employees, citizens, business owners and educational institutions to help the department focus on five major components: prevention, visibility, enforcement, accountability and education. The plan calls for increased law enforcement at every level, delivery of police services in a timely manner and greater police visibility in the community. To educate the public in target- hardening methods, the department is increasing its crime prevention efforts. It will prevent, deter or solve crimes and incidents at the patrol level more frequently. Police are refocusing spe- cialty units to help patrol officers be more effective. They will identify persons and properties causing recurring problems and devise plans of action to reduce their impact on the community.

19 Quick Facts

Chesapeake, Hampton Roads and Virginia Accolades in 2009

• Virginia Named No. 1 State for Doing Business in U.S. by Forbes • Virginia Named Top State for Business by CNBC • Chesapeake and the Hampton Roads metro area cited by the MetroMonitor, Brookings Institute, as one of the top-20 strongest-performing metros in the U.S. • Chesapeake and the Hampton Roads metro area ranked as the third lowest in annual operating expenses for regional corporate headquarters by Boyd Co., a Princeton-N.J. based site selection consulting firm.

Major • More than 180 manufacturers, employing more than 95,000 people Globally • 20 percent of the region’s largest employers are in Chesapeake, including: Employers Connected... - Chesapeake Regional - EDS - Sentara Home Care Medical Center - Cox Communications Services Locally Invested - QVC - Dollar Tree - General Dynamics More than 90 companies from at least - Maersk Distribution - HSBC – Information 18 different countries (46 percent of the Service Inc. North America Technology entire region) call Chesapeake “home,” - Lifetouch National - Mitsubishi Chemical and for good reasons: Studio America • Excellent telecommunications backbone • Efficient transportation system of water, rail, roads and air Demographic comparisons • One of the safest cities in America Hampton • Quality of life recognized by vari- Chesapeake Roads Virginia U.S. ous national publications as among the best anywhere 2000 Population 199,184 1,576,332 7,078,515 281,279,915 More than 24 countries are represented 2009 Population 216,184 1,683,451 7,850,505 305,921,712 regionally, and 12 foreign consulates Median Age 36.7 35.5 37.6 37.1 have offices in Hampton Roads. The area’s banking and legal resources are Male 48.5 48.8 49 49.4 among the best around in helping in- Female 51.5 51.2 51 50.7 ternational companies, and their em- White 63.9 61.1 69.5 73.9 ployees, make the smooth transition to African American 29.2 31.7 19.6 12.4 living and working in the United States. Asian/Pacific Islander 3.8 3.5 5 4.6 Hispanic or Latino 3.3 4.2 7.1 15.6 Economic Facts Median household income $64,053 $54,167 $59,564 $53,679 Average household size 2.7 2.6 2.5 2.6 • One of the 100 largest cities in the $100,000 or more 23.2 18.5 25.1 21.2 U.S. and third largest in the Commonwealth of Virginia $75,000 - $99,999 17.7 14.1 13.6 12.8 • Centrally located and within $50,000- $74,999 21.8 21.6 19.5 19.3 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) of $25,000 -$49,999 22.4 26.2 23.1 24.5 two-thirds of the nation’s popula- Under $24,999 14.8 19.7 18.7 22.1 tion and industrial activity • Adjacent to the world’s largest Graduate Degree 11.8 10.1 14.3 10.4 natural harbor and the world’s Bachelor’s Degree 16.1 17.3 20 17.6 largest naval base Associate’s Degree 9 8.9 6.6 7.5 • Midpoint of the Intracoastal Some college 22.8 23.2 18.5 19.4 Waterway, stretching from Maine High School graduate 31.1 30.1 27.2 30 to Florida

2010 Annual Report 20 Cox Hampton Roads - connecting our community

Serving your home and business. Cox is a local company that knows the value of staying For Your Home: 222-1111 connected. That’s why we can support all of your For Your Business: 369-4400 communications needs whether at home or at work. • Digital Cable for home or ofﬁ ce • High Speed Internet, including dedicated ﬁ ber services for your business • Telephone, with options for your business that provide personal mobility