News Summary
The Newport News drainage improvement project around Hilton Shopping Center is delayed for another year due to unforeseen underground problems and power line relocations. Initially launched in 2024, the initiative aims to mitigate flooding on Warwick Boulevard. As construction is extended until late 2026, local business owners express concerns over reduced customer traffic due to ongoing disruptions. The city plans to increase stormwater management fees to fund necessary improvements amidst rising costs and construction hurdles that have impacted local commerce.
Newport News has announced that its drainage improvement project around the Hilton Shopping Center is set to be delayed for another year. This initiative, which aims to mitigate flooding on Warwick Boulevard, has been in progress for nine months but was previously paused due to construction issues. Originally launched in March 2024, the project hit a snag in December when unforeseen underground problems arose, leading to the suspension of work.
The planning for this drainage project dates back to 2012, focusing on connecting existing sewer lines between Center Avenue and Raleigh Road to the main city sewer pipe. The upgraded drainage system is designed to enable stormwater to flow into a concrete-lined ditch built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which will eventually lead into the James River.
Complications arising from the project’s timeline have predominantly stemmed from the need to relocate power lines owned by Dominion Energy. These power lines were found to conflict with the planned stormwater pipe layout, necessitating a pause in construction to provide ample time for Dominion Energy’s crews to undertake necessary relocations. Since September 2024, Dominion Energy has successfully moved two spans of power lines, with the final relocation completed in early March 2025.
As a result of these delays, the project’s budget has seen an increase, which raises concerns about the funding for other city initiatives, such as street resurfacing. The prolonged construction timeline has also had a considerable impact on local businesses. Danielle Prince, owner of Tastefully Philly Cafe, has reported that the disruption caused by ongoing construction has contributed to a decline in customer traffic. Changes in traffic flow and road conditions have made access to her cafe more challenging for potential patrons.
Current city plans indicate that construction is not expected to resume until November 2025 and will require an additional year to complete, pushing the original completion timeline back significantly. Newport News Engineering Director Craig Galant has expressed that, once finished, the project will effectively address the persistent water ponding issues on Warwick Boulevard.
Local business owners continue to voice concerns regarding the stability and longevity of their businesses as they navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing construction. Many are seeking alternative strategies to cope with the reduced customer flow. City officials have received numerous complaints from residents and business owners alike concerning the delays and the adverse effects the construction has had on local commerce.
In response to the prolonged challenges and financial strains related to the city’s drainage improvement efforts, a proposed city budget plan outlines a modest increase in stormwater management fees. This adjustment aims to secure funding for necessary drainage improvements, itself prompted by the ongoing construction hurdles. The city is attentive to the needs of both residents and local businesses as it works towards completing this vital infrastructure project.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Newport News Drainage Improvement Project Faces Delays
Significant Road Closure in James City County
Additional Resources
- Pilot Online: Warwick Boulevard Construction Delays
- Google Search: Newport News drainage improvement project
- WTKR: Road Improvements Coming to Newport News
- Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
- Daily Press: Newport News Drainage Upgrade
- Google Scholar: Newport News construction projects
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
