MTP Master Plan Updated with Amazon Layout

The Timmons Group has updated the Meadowville Technology Park master plan to include the new one million square-foot Amazon.com fulfillment center in Chesterfield County.

Amazon.com to Create 1,000 New Jobs in Chesterfield

Company to invest $85 million to establish
fulfillment center in Chesterfield County

 

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that Amazon.com.kydc LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and affiliate of Amazon.com, Inc., will invest a total of $135 million to establish two fulfillment centers in Virginia. The company will invest $85 million and create 1,000 jobs in Chesterfield County, and invest $50 million in Dinwiddie County, creating 350 new jobs.

Speaking about today's announcement, Governor McDonnell said, "This project that includes a $135 million investment and more than 1,350 new jobs is a tremendous win for the greater Richmond region. Amazon is a billion dollar company that is known all over the world, and the new centers in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie counties will fulfill orders from placement to delivery within their target customer range in just one to two days. Amazon operates data centers in three other locations in Virginia, and the establishment of these new operations is testament to the positive business climate and success the company has experienced in the Commonwealth."

"We are so pleased that international Internet giant Amazon has selected Chesterfield County for its new one million square foot fulfillment center," said Art Warren, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. "It is exciting that this outstanding announcement coincides with the opening of the new Meadowville interchange which will benefit everyone, present and future. And, the infrastructure surrounding this announcement further positions the Meadowville Technology Park as a key destination for business. Welcome Amazon as the newest member of our corporate family!"

Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as Books; Movies, Music & Games; Digital Downloads; Electronics & Computers; Home & Garden; Toys, Kids & Baby; Grocery; Apparel, Shoes & Jewelry; Health & Beauty; Sports & Outdoors; and Tools, Auto & Industrial. Amazon Web Services provides Amazon's developer customers with access to in-the-cloud infrastructure services based on Amazon's own back-end technology platform, which developers can use to enable virtually any type of business.

"We look forward to opening two new Amazon facilities in the Richmond area next year, bringing tens of millions of dollars and hundreds of new jobs to the state," said Dave Clark, vice-president, Amazon North American Operations. "We're grateful to Governor McDonnell and other state, county and local officials for their commitment to our investment in Virginia."

As a new member of the Chesterfield and Dinwiddie County communities, Amazon also announced that it is donating $10,000 to the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, which will be allocated to food banks in these counties.

"Chesterfield and Dinwiddie counties were chosen for this significant project due to the ease and speed with which the facilities can be built and become operational," said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. "In addition, the skill and availability of the region's workforce were key factors. We are thrilled that Amazon recognized the assets and solid infrastructure in place in the greater Richmond region and will make a great investment to establish its newest fulfillment centers in Virginia."

"We are extremely proud to have Amazon locate in Chesterfield County. Their name is certainly known worldwide and we are pleased to be a part of their dynamic growth.  We are very fortunate that a strong cooperative spirit, even in tight economic times, has generated positive results," said Jay Stegmaier, County Administrator for Chesterfield County.

Both the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce and the Chesterfield Business Council expressed their excitement and support for Amazon’s announcement. "This major economic development announcement further identifies Chesterfield County has a premier location for business and a place to live, work, and play. Congratulations Amazon and welcome to the community," said Brennan Keene, Chairman of the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce. Mary Ellin Arch, Chair of the Chesterfield Business Council, said, "On behalf of the Chesterfield Business Council, we welcome Amazon to the region and especially to Chesterfield County. We look forward to working with you."

In addition to Chesterfield Economic Development, Amazon was assisted in their site selection process by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Greater Richmond Partnership, and Virginia's Gateway Region. Governor McDonnell approved a total of $3.5 million in grants from the Governor's Opportunity Fund to assist both Chesterfield County and Dinwiddie County with the project. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company's recruitment and training activities.

"The location decision by Amazon, the world's largest online retailer is a true testimony of the tremendous business climate companies enjoy in our region" said Renee Chapline, Virginia's Gateway Region Executive Director.

"The news that Amazon has made two significant investments in our metropolitan area reinforces our strategy of targeting logistics companies to Greater Richmond. Chesterfield County's Meadowville site with its newly opened interchange at I-295 is well positioned to be very attractive to other companies in this industry cluster well into the future," said Gregory H. Wingfield, President, Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.


Chesterfield Economic Development
Contact: Will Davis
Phone: (804) 318-8550
E-mail: wdavis@chesterfieldbusiness.com

Office of the Governor
Contact: Jeff Caldwell
Phone: (804) 225-4260
E-mail: Jeff.Caldwell@Governor.Virginia.Gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Contact: Suzanne West
Phone: (804) 545-5806
E-mail: Swest@yesvirginia.org

Amazon.com
Amazon Media Hotline
Phone:  (206) 266-7180
E-mail: amazon-pr@amazon.com

Chesterfield opens I-295 gateway to Meadowville Technology Park

Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors members
(left to right) Dan Gecker, Jim Holland, Dorothy Jaeckle, Art Warren and
Virginia  Secretary of Transportation Sean Connaughton cut the ribbon for opening
the new I-295 interchange at Meadowville Technology Park. 

Richmond Times-Dispatch writer Zachary Reid has posted an article about the opening yesterday of the new I-295 interchange at Meadowville .

The newest route to business success opened in Chesterfield County on Thursday afternoon, said county leaders and the state secretary of transportation as they cut the ribbon on Exit 16, the latest access point to Interstate 295 and the proposed gateway to the Meadowville Technology Park. 

"This is a great day for Chesterfield County," said Board of Supervisors Chairman A.S. "Art" Warren. "What we have here today is the power of partnership." 

The $12.2 million project was paid for by the federal government ($4 million), the state ($5 million) and the county ($3.2 million). 

Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sean T. Connaughton said the fast-moving project — it was completed in less than 14 months — was the kind of thing Gov. Bob McDonnell had in mind as the future of state transportation projects. 

"It really symbolizes what we're trying to do," he said of a project that came about because of county insistence and county willingness to foot most of the bill. 

County Administrator James J.L. Stegmaier said the new interchange was essential to successful development of the area. 

"We always knew for Meadowville to reach its full potential, we would need this interchange to be here," he said.  

(continues...)

Read the entire article on the Times-Dispatch web site. >>>

Stonebridge Development Starts in Chesterfield

Chesterfield County and Crosland Southeast Break Ground on Kroger Marketplace at Stonebridge

Development to provide economic boost and restore former shopping destination to region’s gateway

Chesterfield County, Crosland Southeast and The Kroger Co. broke ground on Tuesday at Chesterfield County’s newest mixed and multi-use development, Stonebridge, which will occupy the site of the former Cloverleaf Mall, just outside the Richmond city limits.

A joint venture between Crosland Southeast and the Hutensky Capital Partners, Stonebridge is being celebrated as a significant advancement in revitalizing one of the region’s popular gateways to Chesterfield County, which borders the city of Richmond on the eastern corridor of Midlothian Turnpike.  

“For years now, we’ve envisioned the next stage in the life cycle of this property and today we embark on that vision,” said Tom Jacobson, Chesterfield’s director of revitalization. “Stonebridge will honor the rich history of Cloverleaf Mall by returning a rich and thriving shopping experience to the community and the region. It’s revitalization at its finest – bringing new life to an old space, and the community supports the decision.”

The first phase of Stonebridge includes the construction of nearly 144,000 square feet of retail space – most notably, the 123,600 square-foot grocery anchor, Kroger Marketplace. This first-of-its-kind store in the Kroger Mid-Atlantic region offers shoppers an experience that combines a top-quality grocery store with 30,000 square feet of non-grocery, home store offerings ranging from furniture to home décor. The remaining square footage of the first phase of development will be constructed for smaller retail shops and restaurants. 

When complete, this Kroger store will employ nearly 250 people. The Kroger Marketplace will be the region’s largest store in size, the Kroger Company’s largest single-store investment in the company’s history and home to the largest Kroger Fuel Center in the region, with nine fuel pumps. 

“Seeing the enthusiasm behind the project confirms and validates our decision to anchor Stonebridge with the Kroger Marketplace,” said Jay Cummins, president of Kroger's Mid-Atlantic division. “It’s an incredible feeling when a company’s enthusiasm is matched by the community’s – and that’s what we’re seeing at Stonebridge with the new Kroger Marketplace.”

Still in the planning phases, Crosland Southeast plans to commence on Phase II of Stonebridge in mid-2012. This next phase is projected to include 175,000 square feet of retail space plus approximately 350 multi-family residences.  

“From the onset, it has been our goal to build a place that restores a sense of community and has the potential to make a positive impact on the region as a whole,” said James Downs, Crosland Southeast partner. “Chesterfield County saw great opportunity in investing in this property and we are working to make that vision a reality.”

Cloverleaf Mall, which opened in 1972 with Sears, JC Penney and Thalhimers as its anchors, is at the intersection of Midlothian Turnpike and Chippenham Parkway in Chesterfield County, just outside the Richmond city limits. The county purchased the site and adjacent property in 2004 to stimulate private-sector interest in a major redevelopment, to serve as an economic catalyst for the Midlothian Turnpike corridor connecting Richmond to the county.

“Once the premier shopping destination in the region, this enterprise zone is ripe with potential and the community is eager for the enhancements,” said Jacobson. “The time to revamp this gateway has arrived and we’re confident that we have the right partners and anchor in place for Stonebridge to flourish in Chesterfield County and the Greater Richmond Region.”

Stonebridge was designed by Pazdan-Smith, engineered by the Timmons Group and will be constructed by HOAR Construction.

“SUCCESS” 2011 Veteran’s Small Business Symposium

The Virginia Gateway Region Economic Development Organization in cooperation with the U.S. Small Business Administration will conduct the “Virginia Gateway Region Veteran’s Day Small Business Procurement Symposium” on November 10, 2011 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Virginia State University’s Gateway Dining and Event Center, 2804 Martin Luther King Drive, Petersburg, VA.  You are invited to attend and participate in this important and extremely informative symposium.

This symposium is designed to give all business owners the tools and information needed for government procurement. It will provide you with the knowledge needed to plan and develop your ability to compete successfully for federal contracts and sub-contracts. This symposium provides the kind of information that highly successful companies and individuals know and what truly differentiates them from others. This symposium can improve your probability of success.

Register today at: http://veteransuccess.eventbrite.com/  Tickets are only $20!!! Space is limited!

Virginia Gateway Region

“SUCCESS” 2011 Veteran’s Small Business Symposium

November 10, 2011

Virginia State University

Gateway Dining and Event Center

2804 Martin Luther King Dr.

Virginia State University

Petersburg, VA 23806

8:30 – 9:00          
Opening Remarks
- Pat Hood, Crater SBDC & Presentation of the Flag                                  
- Welcome Dr. Keith T. Miller, Virginia State University President            
- Renee Chapline, Virginia’s Gateway Region Executive Director        
- Ron White, Congressman J. Randy Forbes District Military Liaison            
- Ron Bew, Small Business Administration District Director                    
- A. John Shoraka, Small Business Administration Regional Administrator

9:00 – 9:10          
Some Thoughts on Achieving SUCCESS in the Federal Marketplace
- John Karafa, Leebcor Services

9:10 – 9:20          
Break

Concurrent Workshops

9:20 – 10:05          
SBA Certification Programs
- Tammy Proffitt – Small Business Administration
or
Navigating the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 19 Small Business Programs
- Joanne Tompkins – Crater Planning District Commission Procurement Technical Assistance Center

10:05 – 10:15
Break

10:15 – 11:00
Show Me the Money!! “Are your Finances in Order?”
Panel Discussion
- Scott Dailey – SBA Moderator
- Tanner Collins – REDC Community Capital Group
- Bud Yerly – SunTrust
- Dai Barth – Wells Fargo
- Letitia Green – Virginia Active Angel Network
or
Contracting with the Federal Government
- Richard Rosanelli – Central Virginia Procurement Technical Assistance Center

11:00 – 12:15        
Lunch Speaker
Julien G. Patterson, Chairman OMNIPLEX World Services Corporation

12:15 – 1:00
Joint Ventures and Teaming Arrangements
- W.M. Jordan Company
or
Leveraging your Advertising Dollars Using Social Media
- Dave Saunders – Madison + Main

1:00 – 4:00
Matchmaking

Register today at: http://veteransuccess.eventbrite.com/  Tickets are only $20!!! Space is limited!

NTS Cuts Ribbon for HQ Expansion in Midlothian

The Chesterfield County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting event for Networking Technologies & Support, Inc. (NTS) on October 20th.

NTS is expanding its headquarter operations location in Chesterfield County, creating 140 new jobs over the next three years.

NTS is a full service systems integrator providing customers with a single source for a broad range of high-technology products and services. The company has a national service delivery capability and is currently servicing 22 major metropolitan locations in 15 states and the District of Columbia.

Learn more about the NTS expansion project here.

Cloverleaf Mall Sale Paves the Way for Mid-Atlantic’s Largest Kroger

Stonebridge Realty Holdings purchased 28.4 acres of the former Cloverleaf Mall site from the Chesterfield County Economic Development Authority for $5.7 million. This transaction will allow the demolition of the Cloverleaf Mall and construction of a flagship Kroger with fuel pumps and additional retail shops. Work on the site is scheduled to begin the week of October 17th.

Dan Gecker, Midlothian District Supervisor stated, "This long awaited project can now begin. Despite difficult economic times, we will now start the revitalization of the Cloverleaf Mall site and the Eastern Midlothian Turnpike corridor."

Kroger plans to open its 123,000 square foot store, the largest in the Mid Atlantic region, as well as an associated fuel station, by November 2012. Stonebridge Realty Holdings will purchase the remaining 54.6 acres of the former Cloverleaf Mall site over the next several years to complete its planned mixed use, retail, office and multi-family residential Stonebridge development.

The Stonebridge project is expected to spur additional investment and renewal in the surrounding area. This revitalization effort was made possible through a working partnership among the County, the Chesterfield County Economic Development Authority, the Chippenham Place Community Development Authority, Stonebridge Realty Holdings and Kroger.

Demolition will include the main mall building as well as the Tire America and movie theater buildings. Firestone and Bank of America will remain open during demolition and construction.

Free Event Scheduled: Doing Business with Government

Chesterfield Economic Development invites you to join us for a “Business Resource Roundtable - Doing Business with Government”

Monday, September 19, 2011
2:00 – 5:00 pm
Meadowdale Library
4301 Meadowdale Boulevard
Richmond, Virginia 23234-5467

Topics include government procurement at the federal, state and local level and government resources available that support entrepreneurship and business growth.

Scheduled Speakers: Joanne Tompkins, Crater Procurement Assistance Center, Dave Fuller, Virginia Department of Business Assistance, Mike Bacile, Chesterfield County Purchasing, and Karen Aylward, Chesterfield Economic Development.

This is a free event but space is limited so reservations are required.

Please register by calling Karen Aylward at 804-318-8550 or email to AylwardK@chesterfield.gov.

Midlothian, Virginia Named a Perfect Suburb by CNBC

CNBC.com has posted a list of 10 "perfect suburbs" and Midlothian, Virginia is number six on the list.

To create the list, CNBC consulted Location, Inc., the data and analysis company and creator of the consumer reference site NeighborhoodScout.

The analysts used their bank of databases to find the suburbs with the best mix of affordable housing, good schools, educated neighbors, low crime, employment, and reasonable commutes.

Andrew Schiller of NeighborhoodScout explains why these good suburbs are hard to find: “Americans have been leaving the central cities for the suburbs for years in search of more elbow room, better schools, less crime, more affordable home prices, and other amenities. But as many suburbs matured, crime followed, schools declined, and housing prices crept up. So people moved further out. The result was ... that to find those good schools and family-friendly environments, a family would have to trade off with a very long commute that itself can be costly in both real dollars and time lost. And those close-in suburbs that maintained low crime and great schools with nice homes? They became so expensive that most Americans were priced out. Hardly a perfect suburb if one cannot afford to buy a home there.”

9/11 Commemorative Concert at Henricus Relocated to Clover Hill High School

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA — Due to the recent inclement weather, the 9/11 commemorative concert by the Richmond Symphony originally scheduled at Henricus Historical Park is relocating to Clover Hill High School, Sunday, Sept. 11, at 5 p.m.

Clover Hill High School is located at 13301 Kelly Green Lane, Midlothian. For more information, visit www.richmondsymphony.com.

 ###

Amy Sheets
Chesterfield County Department of Public Affairs
(804) 318-8314
sheetsa@chesterfield.gov
www.chesterfield.gov

Cuore to Hire 400 by End of the Year in Chesterfield

Tara Morgan of NBC12 reports on the plans of Cuore to hire 400 new workers.

In this bleak job market, a Chesterfield company is breathing new life into an old call center. It's looking to fill several hundred positions by the end of the year...

Read the entire story on NBC12.com >>>


 

Video of Mazda Expansion in Chesterfield

Read the story on TimesDispatch.com >>>

Mazda Adds Transmission Remanufacturing Line in Chesterfield County

Only Facility of Its Kind in North America.

Chesterfield County is pleased to announce that Mazda North American Operations is adding an automatic transmission remanufacturing line at its Rotary Engine Remanufacturing facility in the County. Mazda will invest $2.3 million and add 21 full time jobs.

In addition to the rotary engine remanufacturing line the facility also includes a power steering pump line, a dealer training center and information call center. Mazda has established a power train investigation group to perform in-depth analysis of failed units and provide feedback to improve its future designs and diagnostic capabilities. The company currently employs 41 full time and 29 temporary employees at this facility.

“Mazda is thrilled with its location in Chesterfield County, it has enabled us to effectively serve our desired distribution area,” said Mazda’s Vice President of Customer Service and Parts, Yasuo Kunita. “With the quality workforce in Chesterfield, the facility’s central east coast location and the continued support and assistance of Chesterfield Economic Development, we have been able to deliver quality service to our customers efficiently and cost effectively. We look forward to doing the same with our transmission line.”



The Automatic Transmission Line will disassemble and remanufacture Mazda automatic transmissions for the MAZDA3 and MAZDA5. The projected volume is 3,000 units per year. On the Rotary Remanufacturing Line, Mazda disassembles and rebuilds its one-of-a-kind Renesis rotary engine, used in the rotary-powered RX-8 sports car and produced over 5,000 remanufactured engines last year. The Power Steering Pump Line disassembles, remanufactures, and tests power steering pumps in support of the power steering pump recall for the MAZDA3 and MAZDA5 and has remanufactured over 150,000 pumps in 11 months of operation. Mazda expects to produce almost 200,000 pumps in support of the recall. The Training Center facility houses the training center for dealer technicians as well as a technical assistance hotline.

“We are extremely pleased that Mazda Motor Corporation is expanding in Chesterfield County. They are a prominent member of our international manufacturing community and we are proud that they are expanding as a result of the success they have experienced in Chesterfield.” said Art Warren, Chairman, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.

Mazda leases 133,000 square feet of space from Weingarten Realty in Enterchange @ Walthall, Building A. The building is located at the Walthall interchange on Ruffin Mill Road and is in the Walthall Enterprise Zone.

In addition to Chesterfield Economic Development; Mazda will be assisted in their expansion process by Virginia Jobs Investment Program and the State Enterprise Zone Program.

Contact: Tamara Mlynarczyk, Sr. Representative, Public Affairs, Mazda North American Operations (202) 467-5092

Networking Technologies & Support Expanding Headquarters Operation in Chesterfield

Governor McDonnell Announces 140 New Jobs in Chesterfield County

Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that Networking Technologies and Support Inc. (NTS) will invest $1.5 million to expand its headquarters operation in Chesterfield County. The project will create 140 new jobs over the next three years.

Speaking about today's announcement, Governor McDonnell said, "What began as a two-person IT company in Chesterfield County in 1997 has grown to a national business that serves 15 states. I am thrilled that NTS has maintained its Virginia roots, and with this project will expand its headquarters operations still located in Chesterfield. The addition of 140 new jobs will bring the company's employee total to nearly 300 people. I look forward to NTS' continued growth and success."

"To grow from two employees to a successful company of 280 speaks volumes about NTS' capability," said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. "The company has built a solid customer base serving the IT needs of health centers in the mid-Atlantic, and with this expansion will increase client capacity."

NTS is a full service systems integrator providing customers with a single source for a broad range of high-technology products and services. The company has a national service delivery capability and is currently servicing 22 major metropolitan locations in 15 states and the District of Columbia.

"Family and quality of life are of utmost importance to our NTS employees", states Bernard Robinson, President and CEO of NTS. "Add to that an extensive labor pool of skilled technology individuals and an excellent economic climate, the logical choice for our headquarters and expansion is Chesterfield County, Virginia."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company's recruitment, training and retraining activities. The company also qualifies for a Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit.

"The growth of our existing business is the heartbeat of economic development. We are so pleased to see Networking Technologies and Support expand in Chesterfield County and create 140 new jobs," said Dan Gecker, Board of Supervisors, Midlothian District.

First Choice Business Award Winners Recognized

Wednesday evening night, the Board of Supervisors, County Administrator Jay Stegmaier and Economic Development Director Will Davis recognized the First Choice Business Award winners for 2011.

The Business of the Year Award went to Austin Brockenbrough & Associates LLP. Partners Carrie Langelotti, Craig Matthews and Bruce Sadler were present to receive the recognition.

The Employee Impact Award went to Priority Automotive. Bob Saunders, general manager of Priority Toyota; Jacy Poul, general manager of Priority Nissan; and Roger Johnson, general sales manager of Priority Kia attended.

The Community Impact Award was received by Hoover and Strong, represented by CEO George Hoover and President Torry Hoover.

The Environmental Stewardship Award was presented to Ironbridge Sports Park, represented by General Manager Stacy Bolton.

The Innovation Impact Award was given to ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center. Joyce Steed, general manager, and Jill Bunn, PREP outreach director, were present to receive the award.

For more information contact Tina Shreve at 804-318-8564, or email tina@chesterfieldbusiness.com

Four Companies Add Jobs in Chesterfield This Week

Richmond Times-Dispatch writer Zachary Reid has posted an article about the four new economic development projects announced in Chesterfield this week.

The Shoosmith Brothers landfill joined a nearly weeklong parade of capital investment and job creation in Chesterfield, unveiling on Wednesday morning a recycling center that will divert 100 tons to 200 tons a day of waste out of the landfill and ultimately back into the consumer market. It will employ about 30 people.

Gov. Bob McDonnell also announced Wednesday that Chesterfield will be home to a $1 million distribution center for Emerson Ecologies. The company makes nutritional supplements for the health-care market. Its facility could employ up to 60 people.

The Shoosmith and Emerson projects were the third and fourth major jobs-related developments in Chesterfield this week, following projects involving the groundbreaking for an aquatics center and the announcement of a large entertainment complex. They total about $37 million in investment and 260 jobs.

Read the entire article on the Times-Dispatch web site. >>>

..

Emerson Ecologics Opening Distribution Center in Chesterfield

Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that Emerson Ecologics, LLC, the leading provider of professional-grade nutritional supplements to the healthcare practitioner market, will invest up to $1 million to open a distribution facility in Chesterfield County. The project will immediately create 35 new jobs, growing to a total of 60 jobs over the next three years.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, “This project marks Emerson Ecologics’ first operation in Virginia. Chesterfield County offers an available facility that meets the company’s needs, as well as a strategic location that allows access to their customer base within a two-day delivery cycle. I am confident that Emerson Ecologics will find success in the Commonwealth.”

“We welcome Emerson Ecologics as a corporate partner that is new to both Chesterfield County and to Virginia,” said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “The company’s goal is providing solutions for optimal patient health, and its newest location will help quickly reach customers in the mid-Atlantic region.”

Emerson Ecologics is the leading provider of products and services to the professional integrative healthcare community, distributing over 20,000 products from hundreds of industry leading manufacturers.

“The Richmond area was selected for our new Eastern distribution center based on many factors, including the ability to reach a majority of our East and Midwest doctors via small parcel ground shipping in two days. We take pride in our two-day delivery commitment and strive to achieve this as efficiently and reliably as possible,” said Andy Greenawalt, CEO of Emerson Ecologics. “As we investigated the region, we were impressed by the business-friendly climate, as well as the access to well designed, climate-controlled facilities that met our needs. Our new facility will result in a 50% increase in our overall distribution capacity, which is critical in supporting our future growth.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County and the Greater Richmond Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance (VDBA) will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities.

"We're delighted that Emerson Ecologics has chosen Chesterfield County as the site of their new distribution facility, and pleased that the venture will create exciting new employment opportunities for residents from throughout the region," said Chesterfield County Administrator James J. L. Stegmaier.

To learn more about Emerson Ecologics or their employment opportunities, visit www.emersonecologics.com or contact the Virginia Employment Commission.

Uptown Alley Groundbreaking Held in Chesterfield

Developer Steven Uphoff and his family are joined by Chesterfield county officials at the ground breaking for Uptown Alley this morning.

The 55,000+ square-foot facility sits on a 14.5-acre commercial site at the southwest quadrant of Commonwealth Center Parkway and Brad McNeer Parkway.

New Entertainment Complex Coming in Chesterfield

Developer Steven Uphoff to Break Ground in Chesterfield to Build the Largest Entertainment Complex in Virginia



Steven Uphoff and family, founder of the 68-store chain of Uppy’s Convenience Stores and Southside Oil, the largest ExxonMobil fuel distributor in the US, will officially break ground on its 55,000+ square-foot bowling and entertainment complex called “Uptown Alley” at 11am on June 14, 2011. Members of the media are encouraged to attend the event, which will be held at the site of the $19.6 million venture off Commonwealth Center Parkway at Route 288 and Hull Street. Uptown Alley, to be managed by the Uphoff family and Trifecta Management Group, will feature 40 bowling lanes, two full-service restaurants, the “Uphoff Rotunda” (a round, wooden bar that will seat 100+ persons), and conference rooms for private and corporate functions. The entertainment center is Phase I of a larger construction plan for the 14.5 acre commercial development project that the Uphoff family is developing at the Chesterfield, VA location.

“It has been over three years in the making, but if you want to build and deliver a high quality project that serves the public with the ‘WOW factor’ and provides world class food, stellar service and entertainment, then the extra time in development and planning is worth every penny,” said Steven M. Uphoff, President & CEO of Uphoff Ventures, LLC, the real estate development company of the Uphoff family that currently owns over $100 million in developed Virginia real estate assets. “Everyone is extremely excited to begin work on Uptown Alley. We believe it will be a popular and safe destination spot for families, young adults, business teams and other groups looking for entertainment. It will most definitely make an incredible economic impact on the Chesterfield community. Chesterfield County is pro-business and has made it very easy for us to grow and prosper. We certainly want to thank the Chesterfield Department of Economic Development for their continuing assistance.”

Upon its opening, tentatively scheduled for June, 2012, Uptown Alley is expected to create at least 100 full- and part-time jobs with an annual payroll of $1.8 million, as well as generate $153,000 in annual tax revenue to the county. The 55,000+ square-foot facility sits on a 14.5-acre commercial site at the southwest quadrant of Commonwealth Center Parkway and Brad McNeer Parkway, which is already a burgeoning market for new commercial entities, such as Commonwealth Center.

“What a great project,” said Art Warren, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “A $19.6 million dollar investment with 100 new jobs, and one that enhances the region’s quality of life. Uptown Alley even further positions Chesterfield County as a destination for great entertainment.”

Marlene Durfee, Matoaca District Supervisor, further reinforces Chesterfield’s excitement and support of the project. “We are certainly pleased to have Uptown Alley in Chesterfield County,” Durfee said. “The location of this new project is central to the County and perfect for providing a new venue of entertainment for everyone. Thank you, Steve Uphoff, for your continued commitment to Chesterfield County.”

For more information regarding the groundbreaking of Uptown Alley on June 14th, please contact Dave Saunders, President & Chief Idea Officer of Madison+Main, at 804-521-4141 or daves@madisonmain.com.

About Uptown Alley
Uptown Alley is Phase I of a 14.5-acre commercial development project that the Uphoff family is now developing in Chesterfield, VA. The high tech facility will consist of 55,000+ square-feet of high end entertainment, food and beverage services in a two-story complex, and will be managed by the Trifecta Management Group, behind Commonwealth Center in Chesterfield, Virginia. The ground-up, new facility will boast 40 bowling lanes on two floors, two full-service restaurants, the “Uphoff Rotunda” (a round, wood bar that will seat 100+ persons), arcade games, four private rooms for group and corporate functions, Wi-Fi accessibility and classroom settings, and state-of-the-art electronics for fun or professional use throughout the facility. The complex is scheduled to break ground in June, 2011 and open for the public in June, 2012. The Uphoff family is also the founder and largest single stock owner of Uppy’s Convenience Stores, the Richmond-based, 68-store chain of high end Virginia Convenience stores, Southside Oil, the largest ExxonMobil fuel distributor in the US, and Mid Atlantic Convenience Stores (MACS), all headquartered in Chesterfield, VA.

Chesterfield Avenue Enhancements in the Village of Ettrick

Community leaders and Chesterfield County officials unveil enhancements to Chesterfield Avenue in the Village of Ettrick in southern Chesterfield County.



The Village News has posted a news article about the project.

New VSU Commerical

Virginia State University, located in southern Chesterfield County, has posted a new commercial on YouTube.



"Through education we can create a better world." President Keith T. Miller, Virginia State University.

Costco Opens in Midlothian

Costco opened a new state-of-the-art warehouse facility in Midlothian at 1401 Mall Drive on Thursday, May 12th. The new 148,000 square foot building replaces the original 111,000 square foot warehouse that was located on Hull Street Road. The building has the latest services that Costco offers, including a Gas Station, Hearing Aid Center and a Fresh Deli with Rotisserie Chicken.

“In addition to exciting new and expanded services, the relocation of a new, bigger and better Chesterfield facility will provide our members with an expanded product selection in numerous categories – including fine wines,” said Warehouse Manager Reid Cardon.

Prior to opening, Mr. Cardon and other employees of Costco participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony with members of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors and Administration, the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, and the Department of Economic Development.

2011 First Choice Business Award Winners Announced

Chesterfield County Announces 2011 First Choice Business Award Winners at Annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business! Event

(Chesterfield County) – Each year Chesterfield County honors local companies that contribute to the county’s economy and its citizens through the annual First Choice Business Awards. This year’s award winners were announced at the annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business! event held on May 3, 2011, at the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center.

The Innovation Impact Award winner was ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center. ACAC Fitness & Wellness Center is the gold standard for health and wellness facilities. Their mission is to change lives and they are committed to serving people of all ages and fitness levels. ACAC’s physician referred exercise program, PREP, is groundbreaking in the health and fitness industry in that it unites the medical community, fitness professionals and residents towards a common goal of increasing physical activity & improving health among the citizens of Chesterfield County.

Priority Automotive was the winner of the Employee Impact Award. Priority Automotive group opened in the Richmond market in 2004. Since then, they have grown and Priority knows their success is because of their employees. They try to find new ways in which to show their employees how much they value them. The President of the company, Dennis Ellmer, attends monthly “birthday & anniversary luncheons.” The company hosts employees & their families to the circus each year to show their appreciation. Other events include beach parties and the annual Christmas party. Also, employees are able to participate in the company’s profit sharing program.

The Environmental Stewardship Award is designed to recognize a Chesterfield County business which has successfully displayed their efforts in being a responsible protector of the environment. This year’s winner was Ironbridge Sports Park and they were established in 2007. Some of their activities this past year included recycling paper, equipment oil, cooking oil, batteries and ink cartridges. They have donated family activity packets for fundraising events to over 400 organizations, donated 1,000 free park passes to each Chesterfield County public school and hosted Chesterfield County’s Anti-Litter Program Volunteer Celebration. They take pride in their facility by using earth friendly cleaning products and doing regular litter pick up.

This year’s winner of the Community Impact Award was Hoover & Strong. Hoover & Strong has a strong company commitment both on a corporate and individual level to community service. The company has supported numerous local organizations, donating $60,000 dollars this past year to groups such as the Alzheimer’s Association, MDA of Richmond and the American Red Cross just to name a few. Their employees have given generously to CHASM Thanksgiving basket program, sponsored four families during the Christmas holiday and collect money each year for the “Hoover Gift”. This year’s Hoover Gift was donated to the Richmond Food Bank. It is Hoover & Strong “family” philosophy to give back to the community.

The 2011 First Choice Business of the Year was awarded to Austin Brockenbrough & Associates. This award is designed to recognize a Chesterfield County business, which has been a leader in terms of overall impact to the County.

Austin Brockenbrough & Associates (AB) is a multi-disciplined consulting engineering firm. They recently completed their expansion into new offices in the Boulders Office Park in Chesterfield County.

AB has a long history of providing high quality services to Chesterfield County working on such projects as the Reams Gordon Library plan and Eastern Midlothian Streetscape project.

To confirm their commitment to environmental stewardship, Brockenbrough took a “green” whole-building approach to their office up fit and earned the first ever Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Commercial Interiors certification (LEED CI) in the Greater Richmond Metropolitan area.

The company’s commitment to giving back to the community is exemplary. They have provided assistance to several county projects such as the new dugouts at Thomas Dale High School and mentoring students in the LC Bird Pre-engineering specialty center.

AB is a true example of commitment to community and has had a profound positive impact on Chesterfield County.

“Existing business is the heart beat of economic development. Their sustainability and growth are paramount to Chesterfield County’s continued stability and strength. We are very proud to recognize our 2011 Business Award winners,” said Chesterfield County Administrator James J. L. Stegmaier.

“Congratulations to all of our 2011 First Choice Business Awards winners. This Board is dedicated to economic development as a priority and is committed to creating a business climate that is conducive to growth,” said Art Warren, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.

The Board of Supervisors will recognize all the First Choice Business Award winners at their June 15, 2011 meeting.

For more information on this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield Business! contact Tina Shreve at (804) 318-8550, or email at tina@chesterfieldbusiness.com

2011 Celebrate Chesterfield Business! Event

Chesterfield County Economic Development Announces Celebrate Chesterfield Business!

Chesterfield County and this year's sponsors join the Commonwealth of Virginia in celebrating Business Appreciation Week throughout the Commonwealth. Coordinated each year by the Virginia Department of Business Assistance, Business Appreciation Week is scheduled for May 2nd–6th, 2011.

This year's Business Appreciation Week theme is “Entrepreneurship and Innovation for a Sustainable Future”. The Commonwealth and Chesterfield County recognize the efforts of each business – corporate leaders and small business owners alike - for their continuous work and dedication. Virginia businesses play a pivotal role in strengthening the Commonwealth by embracing job creation, innovative technologies and employing a diverse workforce to preserve the economic well being of all citizens. “Local businesses contribute to the strength of our local economy and provide enhanced quality of life for our residents,” said Chesterfield County Administrator James J. L. Stegmaier. “I am privileged to officially thank every business in our community during Business Appreciation Week.”

Chesterfield County Economic Development along with Dupont, this year's Master Sponsor and the Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center, the Venue Sponsor, will host this year's Celebrate Chesterfield Business! for local businesses in honor of Business Appreciation on May 3rd, 2011 from 4:30 –7:30 PM. An invitation to the event is required. If you are interested in attending, and are a Chesterfield County business, please contact Economic Development. Driving directions are avaliable here.

This year’s Media Sponsor is the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Other sponsors include Townes Engineering, Dominion Virginia Power, Columbia Gas of Virginia, Village Bank, Chesterfield County Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Richmond Partnership.

This year Chesterfield County will be announcing the Annual First Choice Business Award winners during the event. Village Bank was the 2010 Business of the Year recipient.

For more information on this year's Celebrate Chesterfield Business! contact Lori Perez at (804) 318-8567, or email at lori@chesterfieldbusiness.com

Greater Richmond Aquatics Center to Open in Chesterfield in 2012

Area Groups and Community Leaders Come Together to Make Swimming More Accessible to Richmond

An unprecedented number of area organizations and community leaders are coming together to elevate the sport of swimming while giving greater access to swim lessons and water safety education to youth in the region. The Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership, which merges some of our area’s finest education and sports organizations including Collegiate School, Trinity Episcopal School, Poseidon Swimming, Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club and Sports Backers, today announced the construction of the new Aquatics Center.

One of the primary goals of the Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership is to establish programs for Richmond’s underserved youth who do not currently have access to swim lessons. With an estimated 60% of minority kids not able to swim, the new Aquatics Center has as its goal the ability to offer accessible programs for area youth while promoting health and wellness among all area residents.

"With nearly 158,000 children under the age of nine in metro Richmond, offering a swim education program is vital for the safety and physical fitness of our kids," said Bobby Ukrop, President, Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership. "Currently, the YMCA runs programs for 35 of the more than 120 elementary schools in the area. That means 70% of our schools are not participating in any kind of swim program. My fellow team members and I are hoping to close that gap while at the same time elevating swimming as a lifelong participatory sport among the million residents of our region."

At over 50,000 Square Feet, the Aquatics Center will feature three pools including the pool used at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in Omaha, NE where some of our country's best swimmers set many national records. This 50-meter eight-lane competition pool with moveable bulkheads will be the cornerstone of the center. Aquatics Center patrons will also have access to a therapy pool and a 25-yard warm water pool available for lessons and other water sports. A vast 7,000 square foot mezzanine grandstand will seat up to 700 spectators.

Construction of the Aquatics Center is slated for later this month and is expected to take ten months. The facility will boast a community room, an indoor fitness facility, ample parking, locker rooms and plenty of storage space. In the future, it will offer a 5,000 square foot space for physical therapy and rehabilitation services. Membership fees for use of the fitness and pool facilities will be announced at a later date.

The Aquatics Center will also provide an economic boost to the region. With the ability to host significant swim competitions-- high school local and state swim meets; local, state and regional club swim meets sanctioned by Virginia and USA Swimming--the Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership anticipates the facility will bring over $2 million to the area annually through sports tourism.

Jon Lugbill, Executive Director of the Sports Backers said, "The economic benefits go beyond the $2 million annual economic impact of events held at the pool, but bring an immeasurable benefit to Richmond by raising the confidence of our kids who will take part in these new swimming opportunities provided by the Center. We are looking forward to being able to fuel the local economy and develop the youth of the region—all at the same time.”

The Aquatics Center will be located in Ukrop Park, near the intersection of Chippenham Parkway and Route 10 in Chesterfield County, and will cost an estimated $14 million to build. To date, the Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership has raised all but the $4 million needed to finish construction and is kicking off a capital campaign to raise these funds.

"The Aquatics Center will be a wonderful addition to Ukrop Park and the perfect complement to the Kickers’ dream of providing a sports venue that entertains, invites community participation and inspires our residents," said Leigh Cowlishaw, Director of Soccer/Head Coach, Richmond Kickers Pro Team. "Sports provide countless character building moments and offer the perfect vehicle to teach life skills　to nurture the next generation of role models for our community."

A Campaign Cabinet of some of Richmond's most influential leaders has been assembled to see this vision come to life. Some of the members include Bill Axselle, Bobby Ukrop, Marcus Weinstein, John Watkins, Fred Tattersall, Shawn Boyer, Tom Chewning, Keith Evans, Mary Doswell, Rob Estes, Jon Lugbill, Jerry Fox, Palmer Garson, Bruce Heilman, Jim Holland, Stephanie Kirksey, Bryce Powell, Tom Rohman, Rick Sharp, Wally Stettinius, Nancy Thomas, Walter Robertson, III, Jim Weinberg, and Marcus Newsome.

For more information about the Aquatics Center, visit www.greaterrichmondaquaticspartnership.org

Alliance Engineering Selected to Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

- Two-year program provides resources to support international business -

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced the acceptance of four Central Virginia companies into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. Launched in January 2002, the program assists exporters in the Commonwealth that have firmly established domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as an expansion strategy.

The new companies accepted into the program include Alliance Engineering, Inc. of Chesterfield County; FDP Virginia, Inc. of Essex County; Mikro Systems, Inc. of Albemarle County; and Northland Forest Products, Inc. of Fluvanna County.

Currently, the VALET program has 40 companies as participants. Because of the proven results of the program’s graduates, the VALET program will continue to expand to work with more Virginia companies over the course of the next six months. In addition, new participants in the program will have access to $15,000 in reimbursement funds from the Commonwealth. The program provides participating companies assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help them meet their international goals. Private sector service providers such as attorneys, Web designers, bankers, translators and freight forwarders contribute essential expertise for expansion into international markets.

These Virginia companies join the program as part of the 19th class of VALET companies. To participate, each eligible business must meet several quantitative criteria and complete an application process. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growth through export. Currently, more than 140 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

“The VALET Program generates international sales for Virginia companies,” said Paul Grossman, VEDP Director of International Trade and Investment. “Since its inception in 2002, the program has worked with more than 140 companies to increase their international sales. Because of the program’s proven success and because jobs are created when Virginia companies sell more into global markets, it is important that we expand the VALET Program to assist more Virginia companies. We are happy to welcome these companies to the program and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, a marketing organization, was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. The Partnership is a state authority, which is governed by a 22-member Board of Directors appointed by the Governor and the Virginia General Assembly. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade. VEDP has offices in Virginia, Belgium, Hong Kong, Mexico and Japan.

To learn more about VALET program, visit www.ExportVirginia.org.

Chesterfield County's Will Davis has visions of growth

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has posted a profile in the Metro Business section about Chesterfield Economic Development Director, Will Davis. Times-Dispatch writer Zachary Reid reports on the interesting economic development work happening Chesterfield County .

Will Davis can sell a piece of land.

He will look over a swath of earth most people would never notice and figure out some way to make it a community.

It could be full of complementary retail outlets, or it could be industrial factories. What the project is doesn't matter as much as that there is a development.

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Read the entire article on the Times-Dispatch web site >>>