Civil Municipal View Feb2023

107 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 PORTSMOUTH , V I RGINI A Enviably situated on the banks of the Elizabeth River in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, the City of Portsmouth is a thriving place with something to offer everyone with a robust lineup of economic development projects in the pipeline as we welcome in a new calendar year. Portsmouth is home to nature reserves, art walks, restaurants, and more. It’s also a city that comfortably offers its inhabitants ample professional opportunities and entertainment for the entire family. Portsmouth’s development is closely connected to the United States Navy. The city is home to the nation’s oldest naval shipyard and navy hospital. “Our tradition, and legacy of service, of citizens working with the military is unique to Portsmouth. We’re extremely proud of our city, and all are Portsmouth Proud,” says Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover. E Portsmouth’s shipyards still construct and repair vessels, supporting the country’s defense efforts. One of five Port of Virginia terminals situated in the city, the Virginia International Gateway Terminal, is a state-of-the-art facility that handles cargo and freight from across the globe. The Commonwealth of Virginia has invested billions of dollars into infrastructure around the city, not just at the ports but also in facilities associated with shipping. These investments include building and developing warehousing, distribution, logistics, and operators. Maintaining these assets is essential as they are a pivotal part of the state and nation’s supply chain, which, during COVID, became a national talking point. “Coming out of the pandemic highlighted the importance of free flow trade to our economy. Fortunately, we have a world- class operation in the city,” says Director of Economic Development Brian Donahue