Chesterfield Business News

Collegiate School Expands Footprint into Chesterfield County

2012-02-15T08:10:00.000-05:00

New Area Aquatics Center to Be Named After Distinguished Independent School

Collegiate School, a member of the Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership (GRAP), announced today that it will lend its name to the new state-of-the-art aquatics center. It will be officially named the “Collegiate School Aquatics Center”.

Located in Chesterfield County, the aquatics center is the latest addition to Ukrop Park, which is the Richmond Kickers Club’s 46-acre sports complex. The new facility will also be the home of Poseidon Swimming.

“We are thrilled to join with our partners in leading the effort to bring a world-class aquatics center to Richmond and Chesterfield County,” said Collegiate Head of School Keith Evans. “Our investment will provide our swimmers with a home pool while giving us a chance to help GRAP reach its goal of teaching every second-grader to swim by 2020.”

Aquatics Center Features

Located in Ukrop Park at the intersection of Chippenham Parkway and Ironbridge Road, Dale District, Chesterfield County
54,000+ square foot facility
Three pools
50 meter, eight lane, competition pool (the pool used at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in Omaha, NE where some of the country’s best swimmers set many national records)
Therapy pool, complete with two underwater treadmills and diagnostic video equipment
25-yard, warm water pool will be available for lessons
7,000 square foot mezzanine grandstand will seat up to 700 enthusiastic spectators

“Chesterfield County is very pleased to have Collegiate School join the county in this endeavor,” said County Administrator Jay Stegmaier. “Its continued quest for excellence, both in and out of the classroom, has earned Collegiate quite a reputation. We look forward to working with the school to further grow its presence in Chesterfield County.

Collegiate currently holds its swim practices in the evening at St. Catherine’s School. With the opening of the Collegiate School Aquatics Center, the school will shift its practices to afternoons starting next November. “The aquatics center is only 18 minutes from our main campus yet gives us an opportunity to have an expanded presence in the Greater Richmond Metropolitan area. We have terrific partners to work with and have enjoyed the support of Chesterfield County’s leadership from day one,” said Evans.

The Collegiate School Aquatics Center has become a reality due to the collaboration of five of our area’s finest education and sports organizations: Collegiate School, Trinity Episcopal School, Poseidon Swimming, Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club, Sports Backers and the many community leaders who formed the Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership (GRAP).

“This new center will have a catalytic impact by providing a community-wide focus on swimming and water safety,” said Bobby Ukrop, Chairman of the Board, Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership.

The Collegiate School Aquatics Center is centrally located in the Dale District of Chesterfield County.

“What a great announcement for both Chesterfield County and the entire region. With sports being a key component of our overall tourism effort, the new facility will have terrific economic impact attracting visitors from up and down the East Coast,” said Dale Supervisor Jim Holland.

The Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership will be hosting a grand opening event on March 13, 2012.

Media Contacts:

Keith Evans
Collegiate School
kevans@collegiate-va.org
804-741-9702

Bobby Ukrop
Greater Richmond Aquatics Partnership
bobby.ukrop@ukrops.com
804-340-3105

Will Davis
Chesterfield County Economic Development
wdavis@chesterfieldbusiness.com
804-318-8558

New Tourism Video for Richmond Region Posted

2012-02-14T14:00:00.000-05:00

The Richmond Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau has posted a new video highlighting the best of the Richmond Region.

Honeywell to Invest $27.5 million in Chesterfield County

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Company will create 50 new jobs.

Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that Honeywell, a Fortune 100 manufacturing and technology company, will invest $27.5 million to add to its Advanced Fibers and Composites (AF&C) operation in Chesterfield County. AF&C manufactures the lightest, strongest polyethylene fiber available anywhere in the world, which is used for ballistic protection with the U.S. military and law enforcement agencies and in certain industrial applications. The project will create 50 new jobs. Virginia successfully competed against North Carolina and South Carolina.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, "As home to 17 facilities employing approximately 1,800 Virginians, the Commonwealth values Honeywell as a major corporate partner. An investment of this magnitude to manufacture life-saving technology at its operation in Chesterfield County is significant for the region and for Virginia. Honeywell’s AF&C unit supplies the materials that helps keep U.S. soldiers and law enforcement personnel safe by enabling stronger, lighter bullet resistant vests and other armor, and we appreciate the company’s commitment to our country and continued investment in the Commonwealth."

"Honeywell began operations in Virginia as early as 1928, and it is gratifying that the company continues to thrive more than 80 years later," said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. "Approximately 300 are employed by Honeywell in Chesterfield County, and we are pleased that with this investment 50 new jobs will be added."

Honeywell ballistic materials have been trusted to protect military and police forces around the world for more than two decades. They are used in a variety of applications where lightweight strength is critical, including bullet-resistant vests, breast plates, helmets, combat vehicles and military aircraft. The fiber is also used in a wide variety of industrial and recreational applications, including rope and lifting slings, mooring lines, fishing line, sail cloth and security netting.

"Honeywell’s Advanced Fibers and Composites business, based in Chesterfield County, is already a premier supplier of life-saving materials for bullet-resistant vests and helmets as well as for industrial applications. This investment will allow us to better serve our customers with next-generation materials," said Andreas Kramvis, President and CEO of Honeywell Performance Materials and Technologies. "We are grateful for the support of the Commonwealth of Virginia and Chesterfield County, and look forward to continuing our longstanding partnership."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County, the Greater Richmond Partnership and Virginia’s Gateway Region to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McDonnell approved a $300,000 performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Partnership (VIP) program, an incentive available to existing Virginia companies. 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.

"We are so pleased when one of our long-standing existing businesses expands," said Dan Gecker, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. "It demonstrates that they have found Chesterfield County to be a profitable business environment, and we sincerely appreciate their commitment to Chesterfield County and look forward to their continued growth. Honeywell is producing quality leading edge products and it is especially rewarding that their technology is saving lives. We congratulate Honeywell on their success."

Chesterfield Company Selected to Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

2012-01-25T13:21:00.005-05:00

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

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced the acceptance of two 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 Hermle North America of Amherst County and Integrated Global Services of Chesterfield County.

Currently, the VALET program has 50 companies as participants. New participants in the program 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 to assist companies in executing their export initiatives.

These Central Virginia companies join the program as part of the 21st 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 165 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 165 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 continue to assist Virginia companies through the program. We are happy to welcome these companies to VALET 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, Shanghai, Mexico, Japan, India and the United Kingdom.

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

Amazon Site Work Progressing Quickly

2012-01-18T14:36:00.001-05:00

Work on the new one million square-foot Amazon.com fulfillment center in Chesterfield County is moving forward a rapid pace. The roads leading to the site are almost ready for paving and the entire development site has been cleared. The photos below were taken on January 10th.

Meadowville Technology Parkway

Entrance to the Amazon Site

Amazon Development Site

Amazon Development Site Aerial

MTP Master Plan Updated with Amazon Layout

2011-12-22T15:56:00.002-05:00

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

2011-12-22T08:31:00.000-05:00

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

2011-12-16T09:44:00.002-05:00

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

2011-10-28T16:45:00.000-04:00

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

2011-10-25T09:35:00.002-04:00

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

2011-10-24T10:24:00.000-04:00

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

2011-10-12T15:35:00.000-04:00

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

2011-09-09T13:21:00.002-04:00

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

2011-09-08T15:17:00.000-04:00

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

2011-09-08T12:24:00.002-04:00

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

2011-08-04T21:17:00.004-04:00

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

2011-07-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

Read the story on TimesDispatch.com >>>

Mazda Adds Transmission Remanufacturing Line in Chesterfield County

2011-07-27T14:47:00.007-04:00

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

2011-07-12T12:17:00.002-04:00

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

2011-06-17T14:09:00.001-04:00

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

2011-06-16T10:02:00.005-04:00

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

2011-06-15T14:54:00.002-04:00

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

2011-06-14T14:49:00.007-04:00

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

2011-06-14T08:22:00.004-04:00

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

2011-05-31T16:31:00.001-04:00

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

2011-05-25T16:07:00.004-04:00

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

2011-05-13T17:23:00.006-04:00

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

2011-05-05T15:05:00.000-04:00

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

2011-04-27T12:55:00.000-04:00

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

2011-03-15T09:03:00.004-04:00

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

2011-01-21T10:52:00.001-05:00

- 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

2011-01-10T08:17:00.004-05:00

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.

...

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

SportsQuest to Break Ground on Indoor Sports & Fitness Center

2010-12-15T14:34:00.001-05:00

Facility includes 250,000 sq ft of Court Sports, Olympic Pool & Fitness Center Programs

SportsQuest took a major step forward today as the company revealed plans to break ground this week on what has been described as a premium jewel of their West Campus. The impressive building will allow SportsQuest members to enjoy another 13 sports and fitness center activities. The announcement is already sparking attention from Olympic, Professional and Amateur sports groups around the country.

Spectacular Home for Sports Training. With 15 basketball courts underway, Tony Tucker, one of the top basketball trainers in the world recently moved to Chesterfield County to direct the SportsQuest basketball program. “Top NBA players are making commitments to support training at SportsQuest,” remarked Tucker. “If you are an up and coming basketball player, who wants to maximize your game, you need to train with Tony Tucker,” said Chauncey Billups, NBA Player with the Denver Nuggets, “It’s been a great advantage working with Tony throughout my career.” Billups’ personal success is a testament to SportsQuest training programs as Billups’ training with Tucker has been credited as one of the reasons he was the 3rd player selected in the NBA Draft.

Major Platform for Sports Tournaments. The AAU, the largest youth sports group in the country, is the first sports group to take advantage of the facility by awarding SportsQuest a 20-year commitment for the AAU National Sports Festival. This tournament will be held annually at SportsQuest over a nine day period the last two weeks in June. “The first event is scheduled June 18-26, 2010 and will include over 20 sports,” said Travis Bullock, Governor of Virginia AAU, “our National Sports Festival held at SportsQuest should become one of the largest youth sporting events in the country.” Facility access throughout Richmond is expected to augment the SportsQuest campus spreading the regional benefits. The event will be energized by AAU National marketing to its approximately 600,000 athlete members and is projected to bring over 100,000 players, team supporters, and family members annually to greater Richmond. Sports Tourism economists project the economic impact to bring well over $10 million annually to the greater Richmond region during the nine day event.

Olympic Interests in SportsQuest continues. Recent Olympic visitors were seven senior leaders of Olympic, National Team, and youth Club programs at USA Field Hockey, including Steve Locke, Executive Director, Lee Bodimeade, National Women’s Team Coach, Laura Darling, Olympic and Athlete Development Managing Director, and Karen Collins, Director of Events. “Dr. Burton’s energy is boundless, and he has created a spectacular venue unlike anything I have seen in this country,” said Locke, “the fields are spectacular and the uniqueness of the property is provided through the inclusion of significant sports science, sports medicine, and high tech enhancements.” The announcement falls on the one-year anniversary of the SportsQuest’s Olympic Sports Summit, which attracted over 1,100 local residents and was the largest collection of Olympic Governing Bodies to ever assemble in our region.

The Olympic Pool, Cardio, Strength & Aerobic Fitness Center is going to drive expanded aquatics programming for competitive swimming, water polo and synchronized swimming. It will also provide excellent state-of-the-art fitness and family entertainment for thousands of Family, Couple and Single Campus Members who have decided to make SportsQuest their fitness, sports, and entertainment site.

Professional Sports Venue. The facility will also become the home for SportsQuest Professional Sports like the Richmond Revolution, who are entering the 2nd season after a record setting 13-1 season and winning IFL franchise of the year. Intimate seating for over 3,000 people will create a unique and outstanding experience for our fans to enjoy a wide range of professional indoor sports.

Ground Broken for Bon Secours St. Francis at Watkins Centre

2010-12-10T14:20:00.003-05:00

Bon Secours has celebrated the start of Chesterfield’s newest health-care facility, Bon Secours St. Francis Watkins Centre. The new project will bring an influx of capital investment, 150 new jobs to northwest Chesterfield County and increased availability of ambulatory services for the county’s fast growing population.

St. Francis Watkins Centre will include the area’s only freestanding emergency department as well as an imaging center and physician office space. The new Bon Secours campus will be located at the corner of Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike, just 4.5 miles from Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center.

“Bon Secours has received tremendous support from Chesterfield County and its residents and we are pleased to serve the community,” said Peter J. Bernard, CEO of Bon Secours Virginia. “Five years ago we made a significant commitment to the county with the opening of St. Francis Medical Center. Our expectation is that residents will welcome the services of Watkins Centre as they did our hospital.”

St. Francis Watkins Centre is located in the northwest part of the county, and will service three large residential and commercial areas of Chesterfield, as well as Powhatan, Amelia, Goochland and western Henrico counties.

The facility will be built in phases, with Phase I consisting of 100,000 square feet of space that includes a freestanding emergency department, a comprehensive diagnostic imaging center and a physician medical office building which will house primary care, obstetrics and gynecology and internal medicine physician practices.

When Phase II is completed, the total medical campus will consist of some 200,000 square feet of space. Plans for Phase II are still under development.

“An important part of any community is making certain that quality health care is readily available to its citizens,” said Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling. “The construction of Bon Secours St. Francis Watkins Centre will do just that with a free standing emergency department, imaging center and physician office space. But, this project is also important to our economic development efforts. It will result in significant capital investment in Chesterfield County and create 150 new jobs. We appreciate the strong contribution that our friends at Bon Secours have made to the Commonwealth over the years, and we are delighted that they continue to invest in our state.”

According to Chesterfield Country officials, the Midlothian area surrounding the Watkins Centre is expected to grow significantly in 10 years, creating a need for more medical services to accommodate the growing population.

“The health care industry is one of our primary economic development target markets,” said Daniel A. Gecker, chairman of the Chesterfield Board of Supervisors. “The economic impact of St. Francis Watkins Centre will be significant for Chesterfield; not only are we adding accessible, quality health care, but the number of jobs the project will generate is substantial.”

The project is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, with a completion date for Phase I scheduled for late 2011.

Bon Secours is a not-for-profit Catholic health system with four hospitals in the greater Richmond metropolitan area; St. Mary’s, Memorial Regional, Richmond Community Hospital and St. Francis Medical Center, as well as Bon Secours Medical Group which is composed of more than 40 physician practice groups, home health and hospice.

In this photo from left to right:

The Honorable Daniel A. Gecker,
Chairman, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors

Mr. Malcolm S. Sina,
CEO, The DASCO Companies, LLC

Mr. Peter J. Bernard,
CEO, Bon Secours Virginia Health System

The Honorable Bill Bolling,
Lieutenant Governor of Virginia

Sister Anne Marie Mack, CBS
Senior Vice President Sponsorship, Bon Secours Richmond Health System

The Honorable John C. Watkins,
State Senator of Virginia

Merit Medical Systems to Expand Operations in Chesterfield

2010-11-18T06:05:00.008-05:00

Governor McDonnell Announces 75 New Jobs in Chesterfield County

Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that Merit Medical Systems, Inc., a leading manufacturer and marketer of proprietary disposable medical devices, will invest $1 million to expand its operations in Chesterfield County. The project will create 75 new jobs.

“Merit Medical Systems has become a nationally recognized name since its founding nearly 25 years ago,” said Governor McDonnell. “The company has found success in Chesterfield County since 2004. Despite today’s challenging economic times, Merit Medical continues to serve market demand, which allows the company to grow. I am pleased that this expansion will bring 75 new jobs that perform a vital service for the healthcare industry.”

“As Merit Medical System’s sole Virginia operation, Chesterfield County provides the company with great access to its east coast market,” said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “In addition to a strong local workforce, the company benefits from its strategic location.”

Founded in 1987, Merit Medical Systems, Inc., is engaged in the development, manufacture and distribution of proprietary disposable medical devices used in interventional and diagnostic procedures, particularly in cardiology, radiology and gastroenterology. Merit serves client hospitals worldwide with a domestic and international sales force totaling approximately 125 individuals. Merit employs approximately 2,170 people worldwide, with facilities in Salt Lake City and South Jordan, Utah; Angleton, Texas; Richmond, Virginia; Maastricht and Venlo, The Netherlands; Paris, France; Galway, Ireland; Beijing, China; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Rockland, Massachusetts.

“We are excited to expand our operations in Chesterfield County, where we have found highly-skilled employees and great access to the East Coast,” said Fred P. Lampropoulos, Merit’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Our business there is thriving even in these uncertain economic times.”

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 are so pleased when one of our existing businesses expands”, said Dan Gecker, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “It demonstrates that they have found Chesterfield County to be a profitable business environment, and it certainly gives us a keen appreciation for their continued growth. We congratulate Merit Medical on their success and thank them for their investment and job creation.”

Video Slideshow of Meadowville Interchange Groundbreaking

2010-11-18T05:26:00.000-05:00

NBC 12 Covers Meadowville Interchange Groundbreaking

2010-11-16T08:39:00.006-05:00

Ben Garbarek of NBC 12 covers the groundbreaking ceremony with a news segment.

View the video or read the story on the NBC12.com web site.

Chesterfield Breaks Ground for $17M Meadowville Interchange

2010-11-15T07:46:00.005-05:00

The Virginia Department of Transportation and Chesterfield County, assisted by Congressman J. Randy Forbes, Curtis Contracting, Inc. and the Chesterfield County business community, conducted a groundbreaking ceremony today to commemorate the start of work on the Meadowville Road interchange that will link Interstate 295 to the Meadowville Technology Park.

The project is the result of a successful partnership between the Federal, State, Local governments and the Chesterfield business community, resulting in the funding for this $17 million project. As supported by the business community a portion of the business license tax collection will be used to pay part of the County funding of the project. The project is projected to create 1,100 jobs during construction.

The interchange will serve the 1,300 acre Meadowville Technology Park one of the premiere economic development sites in the state. The property is marketed to business prospects around the world.

VDOT is managing the project and construction will be completed next fall.

Generating new jobs key to county’s economic recovery

2010-11-11T13:05:00.004-05:00

By Will Davis
DIRECTOR, CHESTERFIELD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

This year (2010) has been a challenging but very exciting time for the Chesterfield Economic Development Department. In a recovering economy, our team has worked hard to capture a wide variety of new business projects. These projects will generate jobs and investment in our community that will help improve the business climate for everyone.

We were delighted that DuPont announced it will build its new $20 million manufacturing facility for Energain Separators right here in Chesterfield. These nanofiber-based separators will help generate more power and longer battery life for hybrid and electric vehicles. This project is a perfect example of a “green” industry, which is an important component of our advanced manufacturing target-marketing program.

DuPont could have chosen to build this new operation in any number of other localities. Due to the nature of the operation, competition among communities to land the project was fierce. But DuPont picked Chesterfield because of the tremendous local work force and the success it has achieved at its other Chesterfield operations.

Austin Brockenbrough & Associates also recently expanded into new offices at the Boulders. This expansion resulted in a $700,000 investment and the creation of 11 new jobs. The Brockenbrough office is the first “green” certified interior design in the Greater Richmond region and the only private sector interior design project in Chesterfield County to earn the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Commercial Interiors (LEED CI) certification. This investment reflects Brockenbrough’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

However, recruiting new business and assisting existing businesses is not enough. The biggest job creators in the county are small businesses. So we are making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow new businesses in Chesterfield.

In September, Chesterfield Economic Development and the Chesterfield County Public Library partnered to launch the new small business initiative, “My Business Starts Here.” Local business operators now have an easier, more comprehensive way to get the information and support they need when starting or sustaining a small business. A new web portal, www.MyBusinessStartsHere.com, helps potential entrepreneurs and existing small businesses navigate the abundant resources available. Users can be guided, step-by-step, through the process of starting a business, zero in on industry specific requirements, ask specific questions about doing business in the county, get guidance about regulations or county processes or identify potential sources of capital.

The Chesterfield County Public Library’s new Small Business Resource Center is designed with the small-business operator’s needs in mind. The center can be used as a second office, a meeting place, a staff- training facility or a research lab. Desktops, laptops, current books and magazines and a variety of small-business tools are available – guided, step-by-step, through the process of starting a business, zero in on industry specific requirements, ask specific questions about doing business in the county, get guidance about regulations or county processes or identify potential sources of capital.

The Chesterfield County Public Library’s new Small Business Resource Center is designed with the small-business operator’s needs in mind. The center can be used as a second office, a meeting place, a staff- training facility or a research lab. Desktops, laptops, current books and magazines and a variety of small-business tools are available – all free of charge. Users can also receive one- on-one assistance from professional librarians or economic development staff. The first Small Business Resource Center opened within the Meadowdale Library branch but future plans include additional centers in other libraries and locations throughout Chesterfield County.

We are beginning to see hopeful signs of recovery in our local economy. With the expansion and growth of our existing businesses and an easier path to starting a business, business really does start and grow in Chesterfield County!

This article originally appeared in www.chesterfieldobserver.com .

Garden Ridge Opens in Chesterfield Towne Center

2010-10-08T08:46:00.004-04:00

Garden Ridge will open the doors of it's new home decor store in Chesterfield Towne Center today. The 109,933 square foot store will occupy the former Dillard's space between J.C. Penney and Sears.

This store will be the first that Garden Ridge has opened in a traditional shopping mall. The retail operation will add home furnishings and home decor to the product mix offered in Chesterfield Towne Center.

The Garden Ridge store is located on the north end of the mall near Koger Center Boulevard. Just across the street, site work and construction of a new Costco Wholesale warehouse continues.

SportsQuest and Richmond Strikers Announce Soccer Partnership

2010-09-08T12:34:00.002-04:00

Focus will be to expand National Tournament Series for Youth and Adult Soccer

For over 30 years the Richmond Strikers have been building a soccer tournament series that today brings about 50,000 people and over ten million dollars of economic impact and 15,000 hotel room reservations to the greater Richmond area every year. Their nationally ranked Jefferson CupTM soccer tournament is already widely recognized by youth soccer clubs, college coaches, and Nike Soccer as one of the penultimate tournaments for high performance soccer teams. The agreement announced today provides for an exclusive 10‐year tournament partnership between SportsQuest and Strikers, who now collectively own and operate the largest platform of soccer fields in the world as well as an operational team perfectly positioned to create similar nationally recognized tournaments for mid‐level youth travel teams, recreational youth teams, and adult teams.

“It was a natural fit and a genuine strategic opportunity to energize our already nationally recognized youth tournament series,” stated Scott Turner, Striker’s Executive Director, “SportsQuest’s expertise in family entertainment, sport development capabilities, and outstanding campus will enhance the services that we offer to families who travel to our soccer tournaments and provide us with enough synthetic turf fields to avoid having to cancel a tournament due to inclement weather. Our partnership will also dramatically increase club revenues used to fund our not‐for‐profit mission to provide high quality soccer programming to youth of all ages and abilities.”

“We were tremendously excited when Scott approached us with the proposal to partner with the Strikers on soccer tournaments,” remarked Steve Burton, SportsQuest CEO, “the Striker partnership provides our business model immediate credibility and is the first of many similar partnership announcements SportsQuest will be making over the next few months.” Turner and Burton reported that the leadership and governing Boards of both the Strikers and SportsQuest voted unanimously to approve the tournament partnership.

Dan Gecker, Chairman of Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors and a strong supporter of SportsQuest, stated, "we are delighted with the partnership between SportsQuest and Strikers to bring tournaments to the SportsQuest venue; it is consistent with our desire to promote sports tourism in Chesterfield County.” Gecker added, “we expect that this is the first of many announcements of top‐quality events coming to the SportsQuest site."

The agreement allows the Strikers and SportsQuest to combine their efforts to develop a platform of excellent soccer programming and family entertainment over a proposed annual series of five soccer tournaments that will ultimately bring over 100,000 people to the greater Richmond area during eight weekends each year.

Turner and Burton both emphasized that their existing agreement is focused singularly on tournaments and does not affect the Strikers current structure or programming, nor does it preclude SportsQuest from partnering with other local youth soccer clubs for league play and sport development programs. “We look forward to continued discussions with the Chesterfield youth soccer clubs,” stated Tim O’Sullivan, Executive Director of SportsQuest Soccer, “we are dedicated to delivering quality soccer at all levels.”

Chesterfield Launches "My Business Starts Here"

2010-09-01T15:06:00.005-04:00

Chesterfield Economic Development (CED) and Chesterfield County Public Library (CCPL) unveiled their new small business initiative, "My Business Starts Here", at Meadowdale Library, 4301 Meadowdale Boulevard, on September 1st.

Local business operators will have an easier, more comfortable, more comprehensive way to get the information and support they need when starting or sustaining a small business in Chesterfield County. The departments were joined by county leaders, local entrepreneurs, and the community, who were the first to access Economic Development's new web portal, MyBusinessStartsHere.com, in the library's new Small Business Resource Center.

The web portal was designed to help potential entrepreneurs navigate the abundant resources available to help start and sustain a small business in Chesterfield County. Users are guided, step-by-step, through the process of starting a business; can zero in on industry specific requirements, can ask specific questions about doing business in Chesterfield County; or can identify potential sources of capital.

Chesterfield County Public Library's Small Business Resource Center was designed with the small-business operator's needs in mind. The center can be used as a second office, a meeting place, a staff-training facility, or a research lab. Desktops and laptops are available to the public, as are current books and magazines and a variety of small-business tools - all free of charge. Users can access the best of the web as chosen by professional librarians, in addition to receiving one-on-one assistance with their business research.

"While there are already a multitude of resources available for small businesses, getting the right help can be challenging" says Jim Holland, Board of Supervisor for the Dale District. "This new initiative eliminates the difficulty potential entrepreneurs experience in getting started and getting help, by providing a coordinated approach to fulfilling their needs."

Individuals can access the new portal from home, or from any Chesterfield County Public Library location. For more information contact Karen Aylward at 804-318-8550 or Karen@chesterfieldbusiness.com.

Lingerfelt Development to Construct $25M OrthoVirginia Building

2010-08-04T15:35:00.007-04:00

Lingerfelt Development Breaks Ground for the $25 million OrthoVirginia Building in the Boulders Office Park in Chesterfield County

Two quality regional healthcare organizations, West End Orthopaedic Clinic and HCA Virginia’s CJW Medical Center, along with Richmond-based developer Lingerfelt Development announce the groundbreaking for the OrthoVirginia Building, the region’s first-of-its-kind, $25 million, two-story, 70,000 sq. ft. medical facility specializing in orthopaedics and sports medicine treatment and rehabilitation. This new building will provide an estimated 180 construction jobs to Chesterfield County.

This initiative brings together highly skilled talents of leading orthopaedic specialists in sports, hand, knee and hip, spine, and pediatrics, as well as sports medicine and outpatient surgery in one technologically innovative building. The team of physicians and administrators recognized this opportunity to provide a regional resource for focused orthopaedic diagnostics, repair and rehabilitation that complements Central Virginia’s highest standards for specialty healthcare, with greater cost efficiency and a more convenient central location for the community and patients.

The project will complement existing West End Orthopaedic Clinic office locations on every major hospital campus in Richmond. The local talent of Lingerfelt Development has been selected to develop this regional, state-of-the-art, technologically advanced medical facility. Lingerfelt will seek LEED certification for this project’s green building design and operation. With ground broken this week, completion is scheduled for summer 2011.

“We’re very excited about this new state-of-the-art facility that offers the community and the region an extraordinary resource for orthopaedic specialties and rehabilitation services allowing patients to be conveniently treated in one location. Adding to our Network of Orthopaedic Specialists, this comprehensive, fully digital facility will offer minimally invasive surgery, electronic patient files, physician records and xrays,” stated West End Orthopaedic Clinic Administrator James Perkins.

“CJW Sports Medicine has been serving athletes in this community for more than 20 years and we are excited that we will be moving our team into this advanced facility,” said Tony Hayes, VP Business Development, CJW Medical Center. “We are also proud to be offering a sophisticated outpatient surgery center in this convenient location.” The development, placed at the entrance to the Boulders Corporate Park at the intersection of Chippenham Parkway and Jahnke Road in Chesterfield County, will continue to provide the community with specialized sports rehabilitation services under the direction of Dr. Douglas Cutter. Critical to selecting this location is accessibility and proximity to the major healthcare facility of Chippenham Hospital. The new facility will offer access via Chippenham Parkway, Powhite Parkway and Midlothian Turnpike, and is just eight minutes from downtown Richmond.

The teams looked for local development talent and selected Lingerfelt (LingerfeltCo.com) to construct the facility. Three generations of the Lingerfelt family have been developing in this area for over 50 years, encompassing over 10,000,000 s.f. of medical and professional office, industrial, retail, elderly housing, and multi-family developments in the eastern United States including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland and Illinois. Their history of fast-track development success enables them to deliver a development on time and on budget consistently, project after project.

“The economic development team at Chesterfield County was extremely helpful in moving this development forward and assists us in delivering a quality project on time,” stated Ryan Lingerfelt, Principal, Lingerfelt Development. “We are certainly pleased that West End Orthopaedic Clinic and HCA Virginia’s CJW Medical Center have chosen Chesterfield County for their new medical offices. Developed by Lingerfelt Development, this new 70,000 s.f. facility in the Boulders Office Park is a testament to the continued commitment from our medical community and to Chesterfield County as a ‘First Choice’ business location,” said Jay Stegmaier, County Adminstrator for Chesterfield County.

Lingerfelt has selected architectural firm Price Studios, construction firm Hourigan Construction and engineering firm Rummel, Klepper & Kahl as part of the team to work on this development project.

Governor McDonnell Announces $20 Million DuPont Facility in Chesterfield County

2010-08-03T12:56:00.008-04:00

Company Will Manufacture State of the Art Components of Lithium Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles

Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that DuPont will invest $20 million to establish a facility in Chesterfield County to make the first nanofiber-based polymeric separators for high-performance lithium ion batteries for electric vehicles and many other potential commercial uses.

The facility, an early commercial-scale plant to produce the new material for this growing market, will be located at a leased building in Chesterfield County and will begin operations in early 2011. Virginia successfully competed against a number of other locations for the project.

"DuPont is a science leader and a major employer in the Commonwealth. The company has been in Chesterfield County since 1929 and this exciting new battery technology facility will continue DuPont's history of innovation in the Commonwealth of Virginia. We are committed to helping our existing employers expand their operations in the Commonwealth. This announcement is positive news for our economy, and for the competitiveness of Chesterfield County and the entire Commonwealth in the global marketplace," said Governor McDonnell.

The facility will further refine and develop DuPont™ Energain™ separators, a nanofiber-based material that improves safety by allowing high-performance lithium-ion batteries to operate at higher temperatures and can increase power up to 30 percent.

"DuPont™ Energain™ separators will be key to battery manufacturers making huge advances in lithium-ion batteries," said Thomas G. Powell, President, DuPont Protection Technologies. "DuPont enjoys a great, long-term partnership with Virginia and the technology development it enables enhances our presence here as a major employer."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia. The company is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

"It gives Chesterfield County great pleasure to partner with our largest private employer on this exciting and innovative project. DuPont is one of our oldest businesses and we are delighted that they continue to choose Chesterfield County as the location to grow and prosper," said Dan Gecker, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman.

DuPont™ and Energain™ are trademarks of DuPont.

Governor McDonnell Welcomes Sabra Dipping Company to Chesterfield

2010-05-26T17:16:00.004-04:00

Cuts Ribbon at Company's New State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Plant

Governor Bob McDonnell traveled to Chesterfield today for the official ribbon cutting ceremony opening Sabra Dipping Company's new food manufacturing plant. The plant will make Sabra branded dips and spreads, including the country's best-selling Sabra hummus and vegetable dips. The opening of the plant will create 260 new jobs. Sabra's decision to move to Virginia was announced by former Governor Tim Kaine in November 2008.

Speaking about today's ribbon cutting ceremony Governor McDonnell noted, "I want to thank my predecessor, Governor Tim Kaine, for his successful effort to bring this great international company to Virginia. Working with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Kaine Administration was aggressive and proactive in convincing Sabra to choose the Commonwealth over two other states that were under consideration for this same project. The result is 260 new jobs in the Richmond/Tri-Cities area, and this Administration was pleased to be a part of the finalization of the venture over the last few months. I look forward to working with Sabra in the years ahead, and I welcome this great corporate partner to Virginia. As Governor I will be vigilant in ensuring that the Commonwealth remains a great, pro-business host for Sabra and all our job-creating employers. We will do that by keeping taxes low, regulations and litigation at a minimum and putting in place the policies our private sector employers need in order to grow and be successful. The number one priority of our Administration is job creation, and today is another positive step forward in this effort."

Chesterfield County wishes to congratulate Sabra Dipping Company on the occasion of their grand opening and thanks them for their commitment to Chesterfield. As Sabra begins manufacturing at its state-of-the-art food processing plant in Chesterfield County, the company will begin to see benefits from locating within the county. Sabra will produce award-winning Sabra branded dips and spreads including the country’s best-selling Sabra hummus and vegetable dips.

The 110,000 square foot facility on 49 acres in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park is located in the Walthall Enterprise Zone. The Enterprise Zone enables the company to take advantage of numerous local and State benefits such as; waved permitting fees, utility discounts, tax rebates, job creation grants and real property investment grants.

The plant was built using the county’s “Fast Track” Project Review process and enabled the company to get underway quickly to meet their projected time line. Constant contact with the company’s development team, and the site and building review teams in Chesterfield County, helped resolve issues quickly and efficiently keeping the company on tract to meet their scheduled opening.

To staff the facility, Sabra is taking advantage of Chesterfield's large and diverse labor pool. The new plant is able to take advantage of a skilled labor pool of approximately 653,000+ people in the region to fill the 260 available positions.

These advantages, both tangible and intangible, helped Chesterfield County attract a high profile international company who is the top brand in the growing dips category. Sabra Dipping Company is jointly owned by Strauss Ltd and PepsiCo. The Sabra joint venture draws on both Strauss Group and Frito-Lay North America’s marketplace expertise to continue building this growing business. Frito-Lay is a business unit of PepsiCo. This will be the first new facility built since the formation of the Sabra Dipping Company joint venture.

In addition to Chesterfield Economic Development; Sabra was assisted in the site selection and development process by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Gateway Region and the Greater Richmond Partnership.

Chesterfield County is pleased to welcome Sabra as an important part of our business community and pledges to continue to do everything possible to help the company grow and benefit from locating in Chesterfield.

2010 First Choice Business Award Winners Announced

2010-05-20T12:36:00.005-04:00

Chesterfield County Announces 2010 First Choice Business Award Winners at Annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business! Event

Village Bank President and CEO Tom Winfree, center, accepts the Business of the Year award from Bermuda District Supervisor Dorothy Jaeckle, County Administrator James J. L. Stegmaier, Matoaca District Supervisor Marleen Durfee and Economic Development Director Will Davis. The annual business awards event was held at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Chester. Awards were determined by a committee of business operators in the 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. The intent is to give recognition to businesses that consistently contribute to the community by giving back to the residents of Chesterfield County through community service, that create and deliver products or services that are innovative to its customers, is a leader in valuing its employees, and upholds the principles and standards of ethical business practices.

This year’s First Choice Business Award winners were announced at the annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business! appreciation event held on May 19, 2010.

The Innovation Impact Award winner was Alliance Engineering, Inc. They seized the challenging economic climate as an opportunity to develop an innovative strategy diverse from their traditional client base. Their new initiative, Alliance Biosciences, allows for their team to collaborate on multi-discipline projects in a diverse field, in the combating of infectious disease.

Flagstop Corporation was the winner of the Employee Impact Award. Flagstop sets high standards for their employees and they rise to occasion. Their team provides exceptional customer service. Employees are rewarded with bonuses, profit sharing, and top quality training and professional development opportunities.

The Environmental Stewardship Award is new this year and 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, Southern RV, held environmental education clinics with over 470 attendees. The company has an aggressive recycling program for oil, batteries and paper. Company staff also takes pride in maintaining the appearance of their site by keeping it clean of trash and debris.

The 2010 First Choice Business of the Year was awarded to Village Bank. Village Bank has been a leader in the County for several years, celebrating their tenth year of serving Chesterfield County and the metropolitan Richmond area. Their flagship headquarters set a high standard for the future development of Watkins Center.

They have a strong company commitment, both on a corporate and individual level, to community service. Tom Winfree, President and CEO, is a founding member of the Families of the Wounded Fund. Village Bank also sponsors an annual Charity Golf Tournament that benefits several local charities including Connor’s Heroes and Make A Wish Foundation.

In this past year of economic turmoil, not only have they over-come adversity but Village Bank has actually shown marked growth, adding investment services and a mortgage subsidiary to their portfolio of services. Village Bank and their staff take seriously the “community” in “community bank”.

The Board of Supervisors at the July 28, 2010 meeting will recognize the First Choice Business Award winners.

For more information on this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield Business! contact Tina Shreve at (804) 318-8564, or email at tina@chesterfieldbusiness.com

New Taxiway Opens at Chesterfield Airport

2010-05-18T11:38:00.006-04:00

Melissa Correa of NBC 12 reported yesterday about the opening of the new taxiway that allows for larger planes at Chesterfield County Airport. Her report included interviews with Chesterfield Airport Manager Tom Trudeau and Dominion Aviation CEO Mike Mickel.

Read the story on the NBC12.com web site >>>

The Richmond Times-Dispatch has also posted an article about the ceremony and the new improvements to the airport. http://bit.ly/cFIFHi

Historic Route 1 Promotes Tourism in Chesterfield

2010-05-18T10:10:00.002-04:00

President of the Jefferson Davis Association Scott Rogers shows us some of the historic landmarks travelers can see along Route 1.

2010 Celebrate Chesterfield Business! Event Planned

2010-05-14T16:59:00.004-04:00

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 16th – 22th, 2010.

Chesterfield County Economic Development will host Celebrate Chesterfield Business! for local businesses in honor of Business Appreciation on May 19th at the Courtyard by Marriott in Chester. Sponsors for this year’s event include DuPont, Village Bank, Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center, Dominion, and Courtyard by Marriott.

Learn More >>>

Historic Route 1 project launched in Chesterfield

2010-05-12T08:52:00.002-04:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has posted an article about the Historic Route 1 project in Chesterfield. Times-Dispatch writer Wesley P. Hester reports on the first leg of an effort to transform U.S. 1 from a worn and weary highway into a 2,400-mile tourist attraction.

A crowd of about 50 gathered with umbrellas yesterday at the Half Way House Restaurant on U.S. 1 to celebrate the honor for U.S. 1, as well as the launch of a related website and improvements to Jefferson Davis Highway.

“In Virginia, tourism is big business,“ said Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling from the porch of the manor house restaurant, built in 1760. “Anything we can do to help share the Virginia story with the rest of the nation is a wonderful thing to do, and that’s exactly what this project is designed to do.“

The new web site is located at HistoricRouteOne.com

Read the entire article online at the Richmond Times-Dispatch web site >>>

Hill PHOENIX Previews 2nd Plant in Chesterfield

2010-05-05T15:41:00.002-04:00

County officials, along with current company employees, were invited to a sneak preview of Hill PHOENIX's second manufacturing plant in Chesterfield County Virginia. Hill PHOENIX currently operates an existing 508,000 square foot facility on Ruffin Mill Road and is preparing to open a second 317,000 square foot facility on Battery Brook Parkway in the James River Industrial Park. The company designs and manufactures refrigerated display cases.

Venture Forum Presents "Lunch with CEOs"

2010-05-05T15:40:00.007-04:00

A Roundtable discussion between emerging entrepreneurs and veteran CEOs

Date: May 13, 2010
Time: 11:30 a.m. Registration & Networking
Program: 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Lunch & Mentoring
Location: Westwood Club
6200 West Club Lane, Richmond, VA 23226
Cost: $25 including lunch

Entrepreneur Qualifications:
(some discretionary exceptions might be made)
• Established Business
• At least $100,000 annual revenue
• Committed to fast growth
• At least two employees
• On track to create new jobs

Qualified applicants who cannot be accommodated for the May13th event will be placed on a waiting list for the next Lunch With CEOs event scheduled for August 21st. Entrepreneurs will be admitted by invitation only (limited openings) Each Roundtable discussion will include three Entrepreneurs seeking mentoring, two CEOs Mentors who have built multi-million dollar businesses and one Sponsor representative.

Contact:
Chuck McCabe
804-204-1040
cmccabe@peoplestax.com

Venture Forum
804-267.3370

“Lunch with CEOs is a ‘must-go’ event for new entrepreneurs and rising businesses. It’s a great opportunity to meet with and learn from successful, veteran business owners. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to attending future meetings!” Farah Hottle, Founder, eMommie.com.

“Thank you for the invite to the Lunch meeting. I really enjoyed myself and it was a very useful investment of my time.” Prince Rich, Founder & President, Rich Technology Group

NxLevel Business Writing Course Offered

2010-04-19T14:19:00.002-04:00

The Crater Small Business Development Center of Longwood University in partnership with the Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, Colonial Heights Chamber of Commerce, Hopewell Chamber of Commerce and ConnectSouthside will be offering an 8 week Business Plan Class using the popular curriculum NxLevel. NxLevel is a comprehensive Business Writing course. The class focuses on teaching the necessities for improving business practices while producing a comprehensive business plan to assist business expansion decisions and activities.

Topics that are covered:

Planning & Research: Entrepreneurship
Organizational Structure & Management
Marketing: Analyzing & Understanding
Marketing Strategies, tactics & Implementation
Financial Overview: books, records & control
Managing Your Money
Understanding Financial Statements
Financing Your Business – alternative sources of money

Dates:
April 27, May 4, May 11, May 18, May 25, June 1, June 8, June 15th

Time:
4:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Location:
Crater Planning District Commission Board Room
1964 Wakefield Street, Petersburg, VA 23805

Cost:
$250.00
*$200.00 for those in the Cameron jurisdiction and Petersburg, Colonial Heights & Hopewell Chamber Members

RSVP:
girardijm@longwood.edu
804-518-2003

Space is limited - Registration will be required!

*The Cameron Foundation jurisdictions: Cities of Petersburg, Colonial Heights and Hopewell, the counties of Dinwiddie, Prince George and Sussex and the portion of Chesterfield lying South of Route 10.

JES Construction Grows Staff

2010-04-05T15:07:00.002-04:00

JES Construction, a leading engineering solutions company specializing in foundation repair, basement waterproofing and crawlspace moisture control, has added additional staff to continue to provide outstanding service and work to their growing clientele in the greater Richmond area. JES introduces Crystal Randolph of Carson, Va., as a service coordinator; Michelle McLees of Chesterfield, Va., as a marketing coordinator; Harold Jones of Midlothian, Va., as a home improvement specialist and Rob Scott of Richmond, Va., as an inspector.

Randolph brings 8 years of office management and customer service experience to the service department. She will be responsible for scheduling service appointments and responding to customer inquiries. Her problem solving and people skills will help to maintain JES’ strong reputation for customer care and satisfaction.

McLees has over seven years of experience in the fields of public relations and marketing communications and has worked for successful brands and organizations such as 3M, the American Heart Association, Bag Boy and U.S. Cellular. McLees will coordinate marketing and public relations efforts at JES. She has a BS in Business Administration from Old Dominion University.

Jones previously owned and operated Jones Quality Construction in Smithville, N.J. which specialized in crawlspace and basement work and repair. He has also managed construction crews and worked hands-on in the home building and remodeling industry for over 20 years. His knowledge and experience is a tremendous addition to the JES team.

Scott comes to JES from S.D. Services, a geotechnical drilling company, where he managed projects as well as served as the site foreman. He is also certified by OSHA as a responsible person on site for soil classification. As an inspector at JES, his knowledge of soil evaluation and how it aids in the design and construction of stable and lasting foundations will be an asset to this position.

“Our experienced, upbeat and dedicated staff is why we are a successful and growing company,” says Jesse Waltz, P.E., President of JES Construction, Inc. “Crystal, Michelle, Harold and Scott are great additions to the JES team and will help us to continue to deliver superior work and service to our customers.”

For more information about JES Construction please visit www.jeswork.com.

Local Ad Agency Teams up with NASCAR

2010-04-05T14:55:00.003-04:00

Franklin Street Marketing, a Chesterfield-based healthcare marketing and advertising agency, recently finished producing a groundbreaking national campaign for Health Management Associates (HMA), a nationwide network of hospitals. The campaign features one of NASCAR's best and most beloved drivers, Mark Martin, as the spokesperson and touts HMA's ER Extra, a new system-wide initiative to improve ER wait times.

The ER Extra campaign is the first in the hospital category to feature a celebrity of Martin's caliber as the spokesperson. It is also the first to feature Martin's wife, Arlene, and is Mark Martin's only healthcare-related sponsorship this season.

The campaign included point-of-purchase and event promotion materials, four television spots, and several print ads, radio spots, and outdoor boards. The television spots are available to view on YouTube.

Franklin Street Marketing is a Chesterfield County-based company with over 20 years of experience in marketing and advertising for hospitals and other health organizations. The company strives to make a difference in our community and nationally by helping healthcare organizations provide care to their patients. When hospitals can get their message out, they are in a better position to prevent and detect illness early on, and save lives.

For more information on Franklin Street or the HMA ER Extra campaign featuring Mark Martin, visit franklinstreet.com.

Sabra Featured in Times-Dispatch Article

2010-03-27T10:10:00.004-04:00

Sabra Dipping Co., a New York-based food manufacturer is putting the finishing touches on a new factory in Chesterfield County...

In an article published today, John Reid Blackwell describes the progress made by Sabra on its new facility in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park.

View the online article here. >>>

MIRR Breaks Ground to Improve Midlothian Turnpike

2010-03-16T12:41:00.003-04:00

Midlothian Initiative to Revitalize Rights of Way (MIRR) broke ground today on a landscaping project that promises to bring visual improvements to a stretch of Route 60 in Chesterfield County. Senator John Watkins, Jay Stegmaier, Dan Gecker, Will Davis, Bill Levitt, Ray Birk, Duane Schumaker, Tom Jacobson, and Pete Stith participated in the groundbreaking ceremony. The MIRR Task Force is a sub-committee of the Greater Southport Business Association.

The subcommittee and Chesterfield County have been working with Timmons Group to develop a plan to improve, beautify and revitalize the roadways, medians and rights of way in the Huguenot/Courthouse/Midlothian area. The design plan calls for several phases.

The first phase will enhance the medians along Midlothian Turnpike from Alverser Drive on the west to Johnson Willis Drive on the east. The work will cost approximately $680,000 (including maintenance) and will be paid over five years through a special tax assessment of the area property owners.

A presentation showing the area being planned for improvements, type of landscaping being considered and before/after photos is available for download on the Greater Southport Business Association web site.

Austin Brockenbrough Cuts Ribbon to Open New Office

2010-03-16T12:30:00.002-04:00

Austin Brockenbrough & Associates, a multi-discipline consulting engineering firm, celebrated their expansion and relocation to their new offices in the Boulders Office Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 9, 2010. Formed in 1955, Brockenbrough provides surveying, civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering services to a wide variety of public and private clients.

As a result of their commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment, they invested in renovations that comply with LEED principles such as energy efficient systems, recycled materials and low VOC paints and hope to receive LEED certification for their efforts.

Brockenbrough differentiates itself by providing superior quality control, maintaining conservative fiscal and ethical management and having only highly qualified professionals responsible for projects.

Kenco Logistic Services Expands in Chesterfield

2010-03-05T09:29:00.002-05:00

Kenco will be adding 25 - 30 new jobs and investing $1.6 million at their current site at the Walthall Enterchange in Chesterfield County.

Kenco Logistic Services is one of the nation’s leading third-party logistics providers and has grown to over 100 facilities and more than 25 million square feet of warehouse space in 32 states and Canada. Kenco manages facilities for the automotive, food, textile, appliance, and health-care industries.

For more information, visit ChesterfieldBusiness.com >>>

America's First Successful Site Search

2010-03-02T08:51:00.001-05:00

America's first agricultural business was started in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

Chesterfield Company Selected for VALET Program

2010-02-12T10:17:00.002-05:00

Sealeze Selected to Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

Two-year program provides resources to support international business

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) has announced the acceptance of a Chesterfield company, Sealeze, 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.

Sealeze joins the program as part of the 17th 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 100 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

Sealeze is the industry leader in providing brush-based solutions for industrial, military and aerospace applications. The company’s brush products provide a simple, cost-effective way to flexibly seal, shield, protect, close gaps, guide, position, dissipate static, clean and address many other applications. Sealeze weather seals close gaps around all types of doors, significantly reducing building energy costs and they provide an effective barrier to pests like rodents, birds and insects without impairing door movement. Custom-forming capabilities enable shapes and designs that best meet application needs. Sealeze is known for its ability to turn-around engineered solutions about twice as fast as the industry average. Sealeze’s high customer satisfaction is supported by their ISO9001:2000, Kaizen, and Lean TPM programs.

Read more on the VEDP web site >>>

Call for Nominations - 2010 Chesterfield County First Choice Business Awards

2010-01-26T07:57:00.000-05:00

Each year Chesterfield County Virginia honors local companies that contribute to the county’s economy and its citizens. The intent is to give recognition to businesses that consistently contribute to the community by giving back to the citizens of Chesterfield through community service, create and deliver products or services to its customers which are innovative, is a leader in valuing its employees, and upholds the principles and standards of ethical business practices.

Do you know a deserving Chesterfield County company? Then nominate them for a 2010 First Choice Business Award!

Nominate a Company >>>

SportsQuest Gets $15 million More in Federal Stimulus Bonds

2010-01-21T18:41:00.003-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has posted an article about the SportsQuest project in Chesterfield. Times-Dispatch writer Wesley P. Hester reports on the additional funds now available to the project.

SportsQuest -- the 250-acre, $250 million sports mega-complex slated for groundbreaking in weeks in Chesterfield County -- has gotten another significant financial boost courtesy of federal stimulus funds.

The county today announced plans to allocate an additional $15 million in recovery-zone bonds to the project through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

SportsQuest received its first $15 million allocation in December as the only private economic development project in the county that qualified.

Earlier this month, unused bonds from across the state went into a pool. Then-Gov. Timothy M. Kaine last week allocated the additional money to Chesterfield for SportsQuest.

Read the entire article online at the Richmond Times-Dispatch web site >>>

Precision Recycling Sees Green in Glass

2010-01-13T10:09:00.006-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has posted an article in the Business section about Precision Recycling Industries of Virginia. Times-Dispatch writer John Reid Blackwell reports on the interesting work happening at The Sustainability Park in eastern Chesterfield County .

Bill Richardson doesn't think of himself as an environmentalist so much as a "green entrepreneur."

"I like taking something that is thrown away and making it into a useful product, especially a product that replaces hazardous materials," he said.

Richardson's green venture is all about glass, as illustrated by the 25 tons of shattered glass piled at the bay doors of his company's plant in Chesterfield County. The broken bits of green, amber and clear glass are what is called "post-consumer" waste, including jars and the remnants of countless castaway beer bottles.

"What we are doing is taking glass that would go into landfills, diverting it from landfills and making 100 percent green products," he said.

...

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

Bon Secours to Build a $30 million Ambulatory Care Campus in Chesterfield County, Virginia

2009-11-10T09:06:00.003-05:00

A new $30 million Bon Secours ambulatory care campus will bring an influx of capital investment and 100 new jobs to northwest Chesterfield County in addition to increased availability of ambulatory services for the county’s fast growing population.

The new campus of Bon Secours will be located at Watkins Centre, at the corner of Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike, just 4.5 miles from Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center. Scheduled completion for Phase I of the project is 2011.

Chesterfield.gov and GRPVA.com Redesigned

2009-07-13T13:06:00.003-04:00

Chesterfield County government and the Greater Richmond Partnership have both launched redesigned web sites.

Chesterfield County, Virginia is a thriving, affluent, suburban community located in the Richmond, Virginia metropolitan area.

The Greater Richmond Partnership is a regional economic development organization which the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and the City of Richmond, Virginia.

Main Street at Westchester Commons Ready for Tenants

2009-06-30T16:05:00.005-04:00

The pedestrian-friendly section of Westchester Commons named "Main Street" is now available for leasing. Anchored by Regal Cinemas on one end and Gold's Gym on the other, the Main Street retail space is divided by tree-lined sidewalks and public gathering places. Books-A-Million has already opened it's doors and Noodles & Company is expected to open soon.

Gold’s Gym Opens at Westchester Commons

2009-06-26T14:50:00.005-04:00

The Midlothian Exchange has posted an article by Erika Maguire about the grand opening of Gold’s Gym at Westchester Commons on Midlothian Turnpike in the Watkins Center development. Erika writes,

Gold’s Gym, located in Westchester Commons on Midlothian Turnpike, is now taking the movie experience to the next level, substituting reclining chairs with treadmills and ellipticals.

Known as their cardio cinema, Gold’s Gym is now providing their members with full-length movies during their workouts. The movies, which change everyday, are played in a dimly-lit room filled with various cardio equipment for members’ enjoyment. Yet this feature is only one of the unique amenities offered by the gym...

>>> Read the entire story from the Midlothian Exchange here.

New Federal Identity Theft Laws Puts Employers At Risk

2009-06-26T14:25:00.002-04:00

Identity Theft Seminar Offered Regarding FACTA and the New “Red Flags Rule”

Identify theft is one of the fastest growing crimes, and it is reported that 1 of every 4 Americans will suffer some form of identify theft.

The US government passed new laws recently that places responsibility squarely on the shoulders of companies to protect their employees’ and their customers’ personal information. Consequently business and/or business owners are liable to ensure that proper steps are taken to protect the identities of their employees and customers.

Starting August 1, 2009, millions of small businesses that extend credit or defer payments for goods and services will be subject to a new set of rules under the Fair and Accurate Transaction Act aimed at helping curb identify theft. The new rules — known as the FACTA Red Flags Rules — are basically federally mandated precautions certain businesses must take to protect customers from identity theft crimes.

Whether it is social security numbers, check information, credit card information, medical data, or the like, if it is mishandled, lost or stolen, it can have a serious impact on the business.

Legions of small businesses that will now be covered — including auto dealers, jewelers, furniture companies, mortgage brokers, doctors, dentists and many others — are still unaware of this looming regulatory issue. Business owners who are aware are most likely confused about what they’ll have to do. And forget about an extension. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the enforcing agency, already stretched the compliance deadline, originally set for last November.

The coming FACTA Red Flags Rules require covered businesses to create a process for detecting so-called “Red Flags” in identity verification, such as:

Discrepancies in address history
Fraud alerts on credit reports
Suspicious use of Social Security numbers
Inactive accounts that suddenly become active
Credit-freeze notifications
Credit reports with suspicious activity patterns
Notices from identity theft victims or law agencies, among others.

A number of consulting firms offer guidance on how to comply with the new FACTA Red Flags Rule. One such company is The Risk Management Group. Village Bank and The Risk Management Group will be holding an Identity Theft Seminar on June 30, 2009 at the Village Bank Community Room, 15521 Midlothian Turnpike. The Seminar runs from 7:30 – 8:30 AM and is free of charge. For additional information and to register contact Richard Swed at Richard@TheRiskMgmtGroup.com or call 804-840-2918.

TopNotchRichmond.com: One of Chesterfield's Newest Businesses

2009-06-08T16:32:00.004-04:00

TopNotchRichmond.com is one of Chesterfield County's newest businesses. The region’s new online referral resource business is locally owned and operated by a recently laid-off worker. By taking control of his career and pursuing his passion, Richmonders now have free access to tried, trusted and tested service companies.

Tom McCormick, owner of TopNotchRichmond.com says, “Consumers are more consciences now than ever of how they spend their hard earned cash and businesses are looking for that extra edge to get the work and stay in business. TopNotchRichmond.com creates a win-win for both.” He added, “Consumers are too often disappointed in the quality of their experience; whether it’s home repair, having a car serviced or hiring a photographer for those long overdue family pictures. Top Notch Richmond does the leg work, helping the consumer make better choices, while generating more referrals for Top Notch area businesses.”

After 20 years in management within a high tech manufacturing environment, McCormick understood the importance of the customer, of quality and of continuous improvement. He also recognized these qualities were too often lacking in the companies providing everyday consumer services, such as home remodeling and repairs, auto service, photographers, etc.

After several months of planning and preparation, McCormick has now launched TopNotchRichmond.com, the online referral resource that promotes only those companies who excel in the area of customer service quality. Top Notch Richmond screens and certifies companies based on specific, measurable quality criteria. Only those that make the cut are listed on TopNotchRichmond.com. Consumers now have a third party advocate while top notch service companies get the recognition and visibility they deserve.

CED and Atlantic Constructors Announce Celebration

2009-05-06T16:59:00.005-04:00

Chesterfield Economic Development and this year’s master sponsor Atlantic Constructors, Inc. 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 10th – 16th, 2009.

Learn More >>>

Chesterfield Airport is an 'economic machine'

2009-04-02T09:21:00.004-04:00

The Midlothian Exchange has posted an article written by Eric Millirons that describes the economic value of the Chesterfield County Airport to our community. Eric writes,

Cloistered behind a large stand of evergreen trees, off of State Route 10, just north of Route 288, the airport is one of Chesterfield’s truly hidden economic gems. It ranks fourth in the number of planes based at a Virginia airport. While state studies have shown that its economic impact is in the millions of dollars, there are more discernable factors that display its importance. Looking only at the personal property tax paid on the 130 or so planes based at Chesterfield, the result is over $400,000 for the county’s General Fund coffers. When this information is coupled with the employment generated by the county and Dominion Aviation employees, numbering in excess of 100 with over 90 percent of them being county residents, its worth to our economy becomes even more evident.

>>> Read the entire story from the Midlothian Exchange here.

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NBC 12 Covers Opening of Westchester Commons

2009-03-06T10:56:00.002-05:00

Beth Danziger of NBC 12 reported yesterday about the opening of Westchester Commons at Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike later this week. Her report included an interview with Chesterfield Economic Development director Will Davis.

Read the story and view the video on the NBC12.com web site >>>

Westchester Commons Opening This Week

2009-03-03T09:47:00.004-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch had an article in the Metro Business section yesterday about the opening of Westchester Commons this week. Times-Dispatch writer Louis Llovio reports on the transition of of the area from a rural to urban area.

When John Watkins looks out across the wide open landscape that used to be his playground, he doesn't see Westchester Commons, one of the largest retail developments in the Richmond area.

The Republican state senator from Powhatan County points over a half-built row of retail stores. "That is where my parents lived. Where I grew up."

Then he turns to another spot a few hundred yards north, this one between two buildings. "That's where my house was. Where I raised three kids," Watkins said.

The land has changed since Watkins was boy.

Acres of trees spread out as far as the eye could see back then. He and his cousins camped out in the woods and had the run of the place.

His family had owned the property since 1876. Watkins Nursery operated there before moving to Amelia County.

Now, the land has been stripped of those trees and is becoming one of the Richmond area's newest shopping centers.

Westchester Commons is the retail component of the Watkins Centre development at state Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County.

Watkins Centre was zoned in 2006 for 1.3 million square feet of retail space and 2.1 million square feet for offices on 640 acres.

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

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RichmondJobNet.com Launched by GRP

2009-02-04T08:16:00.004-05:00

The Greater Richmond Partnership has developed an online centralized career resource center, RichmondJobNet.com, organized to simplify the job search process using a comprehensive listing of area job boards, tools and tips for job seekers including resume, cover letter and interview preparation. Resources for those interested in starting their own business are available as is a comprehensive career event calendar including job fairs and educational opportunities.

Regional Quality of Life Video Released

2009-01-29T22:33:00.003-05:00

Chesterfield County's southern regional economic development partner, The Virginia's Gateway Region, has teamed up with Dominion Virginia Power to create a quality of life video showcasing some of the amenities the region has to offer. Quality of life is important to prospective companies as they look to expand or relocate their business.

Chesterfield Firms Part of International Presence in Richmond

2009-01-19T12:04:00.006-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article in the Metro Business section today about international companies doing business in the area. Several companies located Chesterfield County are among those referenced by Times-Dispatch staff writer John Reid Blackwell.

Foreign-based food companies seem to have a particular taste for the Richmond area.

Fiorucci Foods, an Italian meats company, has had a plant in Chesterfield County since the late 1980s. So has Maruchan Inc., a maker of those instant noodles that so many college students depend on for quick, inexpensive meals.

Goya Foods Inc., an international seller of Latin American cuisine, opened a $5.1 million distribution center in Prince George County in 2006 to ship some of its more than 1,500 products to markets in the Southeast, where demand for its products has been growing.

Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee Inc., a Canadian-based company, announced plans in April to open a coffee-roasting facility in Ashland that will employ 85 people.

Last week, Sabra Dipping Co., a kosher, vegetarian food manufacturer, broke ground on a $59.3 million food-processing plant just north of Colonial Heights. Sabra is a joint venture between PepsiCo and Strauss Group, Israel's second-largest food and beverage company. The plant is expected to employ 260 people when it opens by mid-2010.

For food companies, it is often more practical and economical to manufacture products closer to their end markets, said Will Davis, Chesterfield's economic-development director.

"A $60 million investment and 260 jobs, even in an up economy, is a home run," said Pat Gottschalk, Virginia's secretary of commerce and trade. "Frankly, in a down economy, it is a grand-slam home run."

The entire Richmond area benefits from geographic advantages.

"Richmond was a very good location for us, because it is next to the port, and we import everything from Austria to Norfolk," Roos said. "It is a very central location."

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

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Sabra Breaks Ground on New Chesterfield Plant

2009-01-14T17:22:00.002-05:00

Sabra Dipping Co. held a ground breaking ceremony on Tuesday, January 14, 2009 to celebrate the start of construction on its new $60 million manufacturing facility in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

More information is available on Chesterfield Business News. >>

Sabra Dipping Co. targeted, reeled in

2009-01-14T07:49:00.005-05:00

John Reid Blackwell has written an article in today's Richmond-Times Dispatch about the economic development effort that went into helping Sabra Dipping Co. select Chesterfield County for its new food manufacturing facility. The company will hold a ground breaking ceremony today to kick off construction of the 110,000-square-foot plant in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park.

In the article, Blackwell writes,

The international flavor of food companies in the Richmond area was a key ingredient in attracting the region's newest maker of cultural cuisine, local economic developers said.

State and local economic development officials worked for about a year to land an investment by Sabra Dipping Co., a maker of kosher, vegetarian foods such as salads and hummus.

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

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Olympic Training Facility in Chesterfield Proposed

2008-12-24T09:58:00.006-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article today about a proposed new Olympic training facility in Chesterfield County.

Construction on a $100 million, 50-acre Olympic training facility in the Waterford Business Center in Chesterfield County could begin in February.

The project at Route 288 and Powhite Parkway, announced yesterday at Chesterfield's Department of Economic Development, is the brainchild of Steve Burton, CEO and chairman of SportsQuest, a company he developed for this purpose.

Read the entire article at timesdispatch.com>>

Building Progresses at Westchester Commons

2008-12-19T12:30:00.001-05:00

American Infrastructure, the site contractor for Westchester Commons, has once again provided to Chesterfield Economic Development recent aerial photographs of the project. Westchester Commons is being developed by Zaremba Metropolitan Midlothian, LLC. Since June, a great deal of progress has been made on this project.

Westchester Commons is a 900,000 square foot retail shopping center located at the northwest quadrant of Route 60 and Route 288. Westchester Commons is part of the 640 acre Watkins Centre mixed use development.

Westchester Commons will consist of large, national retailers including Target, Petco, Jo-Ann Fabric and Regal Cinemas around the perimeter of the center, with a concentration of small shops along an interior, pedestrian-friendly Main Street. Books-A-Million will be opening a new store at one end of Main Street. And Gold’s Gym is building a new 45,000 square-foot, $8 million facility near the other end of Main Street. A grand opening scheduled in the spring of 2009.

Wako Chemicals USA: Little firm, big responsibility

2008-12-15T08:11:00.011-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article in today's Metro Business section about the important work going on at Wako Chemicals USA here in Chesterfield County.

The somewhat arcane but vital business of keeping you alive is thriving in Chesterfield County.

In a nondescript building off an industrial stretch of Bellwood Road between Interstate 95 and the James River, a Japanese chemical company is busy producing a fine, white powder used to test the safety of injectable medications and artificial joints.

Read the entire article at timesdispatch.com>>

Alstom Power Expanding Chesterfield County Plant

2008-12-05T17:10:00.003-05:00

Alstom Power, Inc., held a groundbreaking celebration on December 3, 2008 for its new Blade Manufacturing Facility at their Willis Road plant in Chesterfield County.

The new 20,000 square foot facility will enable them to manufacture turbine blades from 2” to 38” in length. They are currently able to manufacture approximately 7,000 blades each year at their present facility but expect that this expansion will allow them to more than double their annual blade production.

Alstom opened its operations in Chesterfield County in the early 1970’s and have undergone several expansions. They currently employ over 150 employees at the Willis Road plant and expect to add 25 new employees over the next 36 months as their blade production capacity increases. The $7.5 million expansion is scheduled to be complete in early June 2009.

Richmond BizSense Covers Details of Sabra Project

2008-12-05T17:04:00.002-05:00

Richmond BizSense has a good article about the deal that brought Sabra Dipping Company to Chesterfield County.

http://www.richmondbizsense.com/big-biz/543-how-hummus-arrived-in-va.html

Sabra Dipping Company To Open New Plant In Chesterfield

2008-11-19T14:59:00.007-05:00

Sabra Dipping Company will open a state-of-the-art food processing plant in Chesterfield County. The plant will produce award-winning Sabra branded dips and spreads including the country’s best-selling Sabra hummus and vegetable dips. Current projections estimate 260 new jobs will result from the facility, beginning in mid 2010. Chesterfield County successfully competed against two other states for the project. The 110,000 square foot facility will be located on 49 acres in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park at the Walthall interchange off Interstate 95.

More information can be found on Chesterfield Business News.

Better Business Bureau Moving to Chesterfield County

2008-11-19T12:22:00.003-05:00

The Better Business Bureau of Central Virginia has leased 7,000 sf. in the Moorefield V building located on 720 Moorefield Park Drive in Chesterfield County. The bureau, along with 25-30 employees is relocating from Richmond and will take occupancy in January 2009.

Chesterfield Firms Part of Export Boom

2008-09-09T06:37:00.003-04:00

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports today that exports from Virginia companies have reached an all-time high. The article mentions two Chesterfield county firms, Premier Pet Products and Filtrona Richmond, as companies benefiting from this export boom.

>>Read the Richmond Times-Dispatch article

German Automotive Supplier Will Open Facility in Chesterfield

2008-09-04T08:07:00.006-04:00

Chesterfield Economic Development has announced that ept Automotive has leased 46,300 square feet of manufacturing space in River's Bend in Chesterfield County for a new facility to produce electrical connectors for the automotive industry.

The $5 million manufacturing operation will open in October and is expected to create more than 50 jobs during the next three years.

ept (Electronic Precision Technology) automotive is a subsidiary of ept GmbH, Peiting, Germany, located about 60 miles southwest of Munich. A global supplier to the automotive industry for integrated solutions for electrical connection technology, the firm has more than 700 employees.

Chesterfield County Launchs Citizen Wi-Fi

2008-09-02T10:32:00.002-04:00

Chesterfield County has launched a new service called Citizen Wi-Fi. The service enables library users and people visiting several other county buildings to access the Internet through their own wireless-enabled devices, such as laptops and PDAs.

There is no charge for this service, however, customers must have their own equipment, wireless card and software. The county’s Wi-Fi access is as secure as any open public access network, such as dial-up Internet accounts or public telephones, although it is recommended that customers use an SSL-encrypted Web page prior to sending or receiving confidential data.

To access the service, customers will need a Wi-Fi compliant (802.11 b/g) device installed on their laptops or PDAs, equipped with a standard Internet browser, to access the network. The system will work with either Mac or PC computers as long as the computer or PDA is equipped with a wireless card and the appropriate software.

For more information visit the Citizen Wi-Fi web page.

Candlewood Suites opens in the Walthall Enterprise Zone

2008-08-22T08:44:00.008-04:00

Candlewood Suites recently opened in the Walthall area on 15820 Woods Edge Road. The 42,588 sq ft, 3-story hotel has 82 suites and is conveniently located off I-95 at the Woods Edge Road exit. The company plans to have a grand opening celebration in September.

Theses suites are designed especially for stays of a week or more. Each suite is equipped with a full kitchen including a dishwasher and refrigerator/freezer. For more information, visit www.CandlewoodSuites.com.

New medical practice to open in the Jefferson Davis Enterprise Zone

2008-08-22T08:25:00.001-04:00

In mid-September, Dr. Jolanta Herrera will open a new medical facility on 2552 Aldridge Ave at the corner of Jefferson Davis Highway. Dr. Herrera specializes in diabetes, high blood pressure, skin infections and women’s health. This practice accepts walk-ins and welcomes both Spanish and English speaking patients. La practica de la dra. Herrera acepta pacientes de habla hispana.

Bachrach Store Coming to Chesterfield Towne Center

2008-08-18T10:22:00.002-04:00

Chesterfield Towne Center has announced the addition of Bachrach, an upscale men’s apparel and accessories store. The center will be the retailer’s first Richmond location and is expected to open in November 2008.

The Bachrach brand features men's suits, detailed dress shirts, and distinctive silk ties as well as other fashion essentials for the business professional and fashion-conscious male.

Bachrach will feature both exterior and interior entrances on the Huguenot Road side of Chesterfield Towne Center which has been undergoing redevelopment. The new store will occupy 4,140 square feet and will be located near the North mall entrance and Coldwater Creek. Bachrach’s other Virginia location is at Macerich’s Tysons Corner Center in McLean.

In the past year Chesterfield Towne Center has announced six new retailers including Aldo, Barnes & Noble, Charlotte Russe, Coldwater Creek, Hollister and Red Robin. At the same time, the center has been redeveloping the Huguenot Road side of the center to create a streetscape atmosphere with exterior facing retail.

On Target for March 2009

2008-08-15T11:55:00.007-04:00

Construction is well under way at the new Target store at Westchester Commons. The 900,000 square foot retail shopping center is located at the northwest quadrant of Route 60 and Route 288. Westchester Commons is part of the 640 acre Watkins Centre mixed use development.

Westchester Commons will consist of large, national retailers including Target and Regal Cinemas around the perimeter of the center, with a concentration of small shops along an interior, pedestrian-friendly Main Street. In addition to offering residents convenient and quality shopping options, Westchester Commons will also provide a sense of charm and community with its gathering places.

Construction began in the fall of 2007 with a grand opening scheduled in the spring of 2009.

Virginia Is Best State for Business in 2008

2008-08-01T08:30:00.002-04:00

For the third year in a row, Forbes.com has ranked Virginia as the best state in the nation for business. Virginia has been number one in the Best States ranking since 2006. Forbes uses six measures in its rankings: business costs, labor supply, regulatory environment, current economic climate, growth prospects and quality of life.

Forbes writes, "Virginia remains an excellent location for new or existing businesses. It has the best regulatory environment by our count, thanks to the second-best incentive programs in the country--as well as the fifth best tort atmosphere. Other high points include energy costs 30% below the national average and an educated labor force fueled by its proximity to Washington, D.C., and top colleges like the University of Virginia and William and Mary."

Read the rest of the story on Forbes.com.

Village Bank Plans Move to New HQ Building

2008-07-29T09:40:00.007-04:00

Louis Llovio reported in the Richmond Times Dispatch yesterday that Village Bank and Trust Financial Corp. plans to move into its new corporate headquarters building in Watkins Centre on August 8th.

The company will utilize two floors of the 80,000 square foot building. The other two floors will be available for lease. The Village Bank mortgage division will relocate to the new facility from its current location in the Arboretum Office Park.

Regal Walls Rising in Westchester

2008-07-25T10:51:00.004-04:00

The Westchester Commons 16 Theater is now under construction. The 66,185 square foot movie theater will feature 16 screens and more than 3,000 stadium style seats. The Regal Entertainment Group is constructing the first-class motion picture theater as an anchor of the “Main Street” section of the Westchester Commons mixed use power and lifestyle project.

The photograph featured on the right was taken from Route 288. The project is located at the northwest corner of Route 288 and Route 60.

GRP Launches Its YouTube Channel

2008-07-23T21:54:00.003-04:00

While it's probably not an "official launch", the Greater Richmond Partnership has begun posting videos on its YouTube Channel. Check them out at http://www.youtube.com/GRPVA

Here's an example of one of the GRP videos.

Chesterfield Reports on Enterprise Zone Results

2008-07-22T15:07:00.002-04:00

Barbara DelVillar, Chesterfield's Enterprise Zone Coordinator, has submitted the 2007 Local Enterprise Zone Program Annual Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development. The activity in both enterprise zones was significant.

In the Jefferson Davis Enterprise Zone, which includes the Hull Street Road subzone, there were 96 new or expanded businesses. These projects created 221 new jobs and invested more than $41.7 million.

In the Walthall Enterprise Zone, which includes the Midlothian Turnpike and Meadowdale/Meadowbrook subzones, there were 45 new or expanded businesses. These projects created 231 new jobs and invested more than $78.7 million.

Virginia Pewtersmith Profiled in the Richmond-Times Dispatch

2008-07-21T08:43:00.006-04:00

Joan Tupponce has written an article in Metro Business section of the Richmond-Times Dispatch about a Virginia Pewtersmith.

Family pewter shop perfects its craft
Chesterfield firm finds success in increasing sales and helping the disabled
>>> Read story

Virginia Pewtersmith, which is located at 420 Southlake Boulevard in Midlothian, produces a wide variety of hand crafted pewter items. http://www.virginiapewtersmith.com/

Midlothian Makes Money's list of America's best small cities

2008-07-18T07:30:00.003-04:00

Top 100 Best Places to Live
"Plentiful jobs, excellent schools, affordable housing - America's best small cities have all that and more."

The August 2008 issue of Money Magazine has ranked Midlothian, Virginia as one of the top 100 "Best Places to Live".

The magazine writes,

"Founded as a coal-mining village centuries ago in the Virginia Colony, Midlothian has emerged as an in-demand suburb connected to greater Richmond.

The heritage is still visible, though, in the historic homes, taverns and railroad beds in town. The building of a major highway in 2004 spurred rapid growth in the village, including the ongoing construction of the Watkins Centre, a massive office complex and retail center two miles west of the village

But local residents have joined together to preserve the village's historic buildings, and members of the Midlothian Garden Club have been known to grace the stone entryway into the village with flowers."