Community First: How the Virginia School Engagement Project Shapes Hampton Roads

Reviving the Virginia School: A Community Initiative

The Virginia School Engagement Project is a significant community initiative aimed at honoring the legacy of the former Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind, while also investing in the local neighborhood. With 10 acres of the school's property still under the stewardship of the City of Hampton, the community is primed for meaningful engagement. The surplus funds from a previous land sale — amounting to $1.5 million — are set aside to fulfill two primary objectives: honoring the heritage of the Virginia School and enhancing the surrounding public infrastructure.

A Step-by-Step Community Engagement Process

Starting in early 2024, Hampton's Economic Development Authority has outlined a structured outreach plan that includes community conversations, surveys, and events intended to gain input from residents. As a multifaceted approach, the project involves key phases that ensure diverse community voices are considered throughout the planning process.

Phase 1 - Preparing to Engage

The initial phase focuses on gathering contacts from community members and conducting thorough research to prepare for meaningful outreach. Local residents, homeowners, and military families are encouraged to participate actively. This preparation is crucial to ensuring that the voices of Hampton Roads' diverse communities are heard and represented.

Phase 2 - Listening for Understanding

From February 2024, community discussions will commence, where citizens are invited to share their ideas for the 10-acre property. Two notable events include a Community Conversation Open House on February 24, where residents can engage with planners and express their wishes directly. An online survey will also be available for those who cannot attend in person, making participation accessible to everyone.

Community Conversations and Outreach Events

To further enhance community input, multiple events are scheduled throughout the winter and summer months. For instance, on April 13 and May 28, attendees can join Community Conversation events and walks, respectively, at designated starting points around the city. These activities not only serve to gather opinions but also foster a sense of belonging among residents, reinforcing the rich tapestry that is the Hampton Roads community.

Impact on the Local Landscape

This initiative holds the promise of substantial influence on the local environment. With the active involvement of homeowners and military families in discussions, there are opportunities for new public assets, like parks, recreational spaces, or educational facilities, tailored to community needs. Historical significance will also be a focal point — honoring the legacy associated with the Virginia School could offer educational opportunities or memorial spaces reflecting its impact.

Why Community Engagement Matters

Engaging the local community in significant decisions fosters unity and belonging. As Hampton Roads' demographics shift, listening to all voices not only strengthens community bonds but also leads to more thoughtful, inclusive planning. The Virginia School Engagement Project serves as a testament to the power of collective input in shaping the future.

Next Steps: Take Action!

As the momentum builds, residents of the greater Hampton Roads area are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the upcoming events. The Virginia School Engagement Project is not merely a developmental plan; it is an opportunity for the community to come together and influence the future of their neighborhood. Your voice can make a difference in defining how the legacy of the Virginia School will be honored and what new facilities will enhance local living.

To learn more about upcoming events and active participation options, visit the City of Hampton's official website and engage in the ongoing discussion about the future of our community.