Newport News Council Approves $33M+ in Waterworks Funding
Projects include dam repairs, pump station upgrades, and neighborhood water system improvements
During its August 12 meeting, the Newport News City Council voted 7-0 to approve a series of resolutions appropriating funds for Waterworks capital projects. The approved funding represents over $33 million in appropriations, including $17.75 million for major safety upgrades to the Little Creek Dam. The items, recommended by the City Manager, advance efforts to address long-standing infrastructure needs, prepare for future environmental regulations, and modernize facilities.
Summary of Approved Ordinances
Little Creek Dam Improvements – $17.75 million – Construction funding will address seepage and erosion issues at the Little Creek Dam in James City County. Planned upgrades include berm installation, swale repairs, riser tower improvements, and reservoir monitoring. The project aims to restore the reservoir to normal operation.
Lee Hall Complex Enhancements – $4.94 million – The appropriation funds property acquisition at 15680 Warwick Boulevard and supports the Lee Hall Complex Master Plan, which includes new administrative offices, customer service facilities, training areas, and upgraded fuel islands.
West Hampton Neighborhood Distribution Improvements – $4 million – This project will replace more than three miles of water pipelines, service connections, and valves in the West Hampton neighborhood, improving system reliability and addressing aging infrastructure.
PFAS Compliance Project – $3 million – Funding will support design, permitting, testing, and start-up services for new treatment systems at the Lee Hall water treatment plant. The project aims to meet federal limits for PFAS chemicals by 2028.
Diascund Creek Dam Remediation – $2 million – Funding supports detailed design and environmental mitigation measures for safety improvements to the Diascund Creek Dam, which has been rated in poor condition. The project will be partially supported by a pending FEMA grant.
Copeland Park Pump Station Improvements – $1 million – Funding will support engineering studies and preliminary design to assess rehabilitation or replacement options for the aging Copeland Park Pump Station, originally built in 1965.
CSX Embankment Project – $1 million – The appropriation covers pre-construction analysis and design work for stabilizing the CSX rail embankment that bisects the Lee Hall Reservoir. Construction is anticipated in FY 2028–2029.
Next Steps
Several of the projects approved this week are in pre-construction or design phases, with construction scheduled between 2027 and 2029. Waterworks will continue coordination with state and federal regulators, pursue outside funding sources such as FEMA grants, and return to City Council for future appropriations as projects advance.
A Newport News Daily contributor used AI tools and these sources:
