The City of Newport News is inviting bids to supply new service weapons, optics, and holsters for its Police Department, Fire Marshals, Park Rangers, and City Security. The department aims to outfit its firearms instructors first, with 25 units delivered by mid-October, followed by the remaining units by early 2027.
The solicitation stems from the Police Department and other city agencies’ plan to transition their currently issued sidearms to a newer generation of the same pistol line, according to bid documents. Glock, the manufacturer, describes the newer generation as incorporating updated ergonomics and a design compatible with an attached sighting optic, intended to improve grip control and adaptability for duty use. Specifications call for a variant configured for the mounted optic, of which the city is seeking 555 units. The city also specified compatible holster models.
Separately, it included a trade-in provision for a similar quantity of currently issued pistols and holsters, all described as in excellent or good condition. Those credits will be subtracted from the purchase cost when the city compares bids for the weapons and optics. Per the solicitation, the actual exchange of trade-in items cannot begin until all police personnel have transitioned to the new pistols. Bids are due August 28, 2026.
In other news:
Government
Newport News launches free flood risk assessment program for homeowners The City of Newport News has introduced the FloodREADY Homes Program, a city initiative supported by the Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund. According to the city’s official website, participating homeowners in vulnerable areas receive a no-cost resilience assessment, a customized mitigation report, and an Elevation Certificate documenting their home’s elevation relative to FEMA’s Base Flood Elevation. The program will also help the city evaluate the feasibility of a larger, expanded mitigation effort and pursue future funding. Interested residents can apply through an online interest form.
Education
Newport News Public Schools Releases Key Back-to-School Dates for 2026-27 Newport News Public Schools is preparing for the 2026-27 school year with several important dates for families to note. The Bus Stops and Zonefinder will be updated today at 1 p.m., while middle school schedules become available at noon on that same date. High school schedules will be released at noon on Thursday, August 20.
Christopher Newport University junior researches alcohol’s effects on brain Peyton Gary, a junior neuroscience major at Christopher Newport University, is participating in the school’s Summer Scholars program, according to a CNU social media post. Her research focuses on how alcohol affects myelin in the brain. The program gives Gary hands on experience in research and data analysis while helping prepare her for graduate school.
Business
Virginia Peninsula Chamber announces Business Connection After Hours event The Virginia Peninsula Chamber announces a Business Connection After Hours event scheduled for Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. The networking gathering will be hosted by Southern Bank at their location on Rock Landing Drive in Newport News.
Community & Services
Virginia Peninsula Chamber invites community to 2026 Military Recognition Breakfast The Virginia Peninsula Chamber reminds the community that registration is now open for the 2026 Military Recognition Breakfast, an event dedicated to recognizing the men and women who serve and protect the country. Individual tickets are available for $45 and include breakfast.
Newport News Housing Summit set for September at Christopher Newport University Newport News Housing & Neighborhood Services will host the Newport News Housing Summit on September 25 and 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Christopher Newport University’s Gaines Theater. According to the event graphic, the two day summit, themed Building Home. Building Community., invites housing industry professionals, organizations, and residents to workshops, networking, and expert discussions on housing innovation, homeownership, and expanding community opportunities. The event is sponsored by Virginia Housing. Registration details will be announced soon.
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Makes a whole lot of sense.