City Council Approves Regal Way Rezoning for 327-unit Apartment Development
Projects clears final hurdle as Newport News Council unanimously backs housing proposal
At its August 12 meeting, Newport News City Council unanimously approved an ordinance rezoning 13 acres at 100 and 115 Regal Way from commercial use to high-density residential. The decision clears the way for redevelopment of the Regal Cinemas site into a seven-building apartment community.
The vote followed a lengthy public hearing in which about 20 speakers voiced both support and opposition. Council members acknowledged the concerns raised but ultimately cited the need for new housing, removal of blight, and economic revitalization as reasons to move forward.
Project details
The rezoning allows up to 327 apartments, ranging from one- to three-bedroom units, in a master-planned complex featuring a clubhouse, pool, dog park, fitness center, walking paths, and landscaped parks. Developers have committed to a 40-foot landscape buffer along the southern edge of the property to reduce impacts on nearby neighborhoods.
The site is part of the Kiln Creek Corporate Center and will remain under the broader homeowners’ association, ensuring shared maintenance of common areas.
Arguments for and against
Council members pointed to the city’s housing shortage and low vacancy rates as justification for the project. They described the proposal as a chance to replace a deteriorating commercial property with new housing that could attract professionals, support nearby businesses, and generate additional tax revenue.
Several residents and business representatives spoke in favor, saying the apartments would revitalize the corridor, improve walkability, and help stabilize the area. Planning staff and the City Manager also recommended approval, noting the project aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan.
Opponents, primarily from nearby neighborhoods, expressed concerns about increased traffic, noise, and potential impacts on property values. Some suggested alternatives such as senior housing or lower-density development. Residents also described frustration with existing congestion along Victory Boulevard and Commonwealth Drive.
Council members acknowledged these concerns and pledged to monitor traffic and quality-of-life issues. They emphasized that leaving the property zoned commercial could allow more intensive development by right, potentially creating greater impacts than the proposed apartments.
Next steps
With the rezoning approved, the property owners and developer can proceed with detailed planning. While the Regal theater remains open for now, redevelopment is expected once the site becomes available for conversion.
City leaders said the project represents an opportunity to transform a declining property into a new community that meets the city’s housing and economic development goals.
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