Newport News Seeks Federal Funds for Seafood Industrial Park Overhaul
Harbor improvements and new seafood market docks slated for transformative project
The City of Newport News is planning major upgrades to its Seafood Industrial Park (SIP) and is seeking federal funds to support the effort. A public notice issued on June 11, 2025, outlines the city’s intention to request funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through Congressional-directed Community Project Funding.
The project will improve the harbor at 917 Jefferson Avenue, including dredging and replacing aging docks and piers. The new facilities will accommodate 10 to 12 commercial boats and feature concrete decking, pilings, safety ladders, throw rings, fire protection, utility hookups, and upgraded lighting. A new recreational pier is also planned to support a future seafood market.
An Environmental Review Record (ERR) found no significant environmental impact. The ERR is available for public review, and written comments may be submitted to the City’s Department of Development through June 30, 2025. City Manager Alan K. Archer is overseeing the project.
To support the improvements, the City Council approved a lease on May 13, 2025, allowing the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to take control of Parcel 1-A at the north end of the SIP. The parcel, partly leased to Lucky Dog Crab and Seafood Co., will be the future site of the seafood market. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2025.
The 20-year lease, with an optional 20-year renewal, comes at no cost to the EDA. Rent collected through subleases will go to the City. Permitted uses include seafood processing, marine repair, retail sales, restaurants, and event spaces.
Established in 1979, the SIP is Newport News’s only publicly owned working waterfront. It supports a range of businesses including seafood processors, marine services, and boat builders. Over the years, it has received federal and state funding for improvements, including dredging, mooring expansion, and pier upgrades.
The SIP is located along Hampton Roads Harbor and Newport News Creek and is a key economic and maritime gateway for the city. The City hopes to preserve its role as a hub for seafood and marine industries while improving infrastructure and access for future growth.
A Newport News Daily Contributor produced the article with AI and these sources:
Excerpts from "Development | Newport News, VA - Official Website"
Excerpts from "Seafood Industrial Park - Newport News Economic Development Authority (EDA)"
|Excerpts from Resolution Authorizing the Lease of the City-Owned Seafood Industrial Park Parcel 1-A to the Economic Development Authority of the City of Newport News, Virginia (EDA)
|Excerpts from Newport News City Council Meeting 06-10-2025
Excerpts from Comprehensive Plan - Adopted