Planning Commission Backs New Luxury Apartments for Regal Theater Site
Fate of 327-unit multifamily development now moves to City Council
The Newport News Planning Commission voted 7–1 at their scheduled meeting on July 16, 2025 to recommend a zoning change to allow the redevelopment of a 13-acre site at 100 and 115 Regal Way, currently home to the Regal movie theater, into a high-density luxury apartment complex.
The proposed development includes up to 327 units across seven buildings, with a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Amenities would include a clubhouse, resort-style pool, dog park, pedestrian paths, fitness center, and multiple park spaces. The project also proposes a 40-foot-wide landscape buffer along the residential edge, preserving some mature trees and adding evergreen screening to minimize visual and noise impacts.
While the theater remains open for now, property owners have placed the site on the market, and the developer has indicated plans to pursue the residential project once the site becomes available.
City planning staff supported the rezoning, citing alignment with the One City, One Future 2040 comprehensive plan, which envisions the site as suitable for high-density housing. Staff emphasized that the project could improve housing variety, support walkability, and help revitalize a declining commercial area.
Public Feedback: Support and Concern
The public hearing drew mixed reactions. Some nearby residents strongly opposed the project, citing concerns about its scale, traffic congestion, and the compatibility of four-story apartment buildings next to existing single-family homes. Others raised worries about environmental strain, crime, property values, and affordability, questioning whether luxury apartments meet the city's real housing needs.
Several residents advocated for alternative uses, including single-family homes or developments geared toward older adults. Still, a local business owner spoke in support, calling the proposal a much-needed update that would benefit surrounding retail and provide a logical transition between commercial and residential zones. The city also received over 100 emails in support of the project, though not all were from nearby neighborhoods.
Commissioners Weigh In
Commissioners acknowledged both sides of the debate, with many expressing confidence that the project’s design—including setbacks, landscaping, and enclosed stairwells—would help reduce potential impacts on adjacent neighborhoods. Some commissioners pointed to a similar nearby apartment development that has integrated well with surrounding homes. Others noted the city’s growing need for additional housing and the potential benefits of revitalizing an underutilized site.
The sole dissenting vote came from Commissioner Lamonte Williams who questioned whether continued apartment development addresses the city’s need for affordable homeownership. While acknowledging the area's commercial struggles, he urged consideration of lower-density options that could offer ownership opportunities for working families or retirees.
Next Steps
With the Planning Commission’s recommendation secured, the rezoning application now heads to Newport News City Council for consideration. A public hearing is scheduled for August 12, 2025, where a final decision is expected to be made.
A Newport News Daily contributor produced this post with AI tools and these primary source:
Newport News Planning Commission Meeting 07-16-25
CZ-2025-0003, REGAL CINEMAS, INC. and PLATINUM MANAGEMENT LLC