Gotta dig?
Do summer barbeques have you daydreaming about yard improvements? If a new fence is top of mind, make sure contacting 811 is at the top of your prep checklist!
Eastbound Victory Boulevard turn lane to Hampton Highway to temporarily close through mid-summer
As early as June 16, contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) are scheduled to implement a continuous, multi-week closure of the eastbound left-turn lane from Victory Boulevard (Route 171) onto Hampton Highway (Route 134) in York County.
The closure is estimated to remain in place through mid-summer as construction continues on the Victory Boulevard widening project between Route 17 (George Washington Memorial Highway) and Hampton Highway, which is designed to increase roadway capacity and help alleviate congestion along this corridor.
A signed detour will be in place directing eastbound traffic to continue on Victory Boulevard, turn left onto Big Bethel Road, and continue straight onto Yorktown Road to reach Hampton Highway.
All work is weather- and schedule-dependent; therefore, this schedule is subject to change.
For more information on this project, visit: https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/hampton-roads-district/route-171-victory-boulevard-widening/
Before hitting the road, consider using VDOT’s free 511 Virginia traffic tools, or the free 511-integrated Waze GPS app, to check for the most up-to-date road and travel conditions. VDOT’s 511Virginia.org website and mobile app offer information about construction, traffic, incidents, and congestion, as well as access to traffic cameras, weather-related impacts and more.
Newport News Household Hazardous Waste Week Q2 2025
Saturday, June 14, marks the end of this quarter’s Hazardous Waste Week collection. Until then, waste can be disposed of at the Recovery Operations Center, located at 520 Atkinson Blvd., from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Examples of Acceptable Materials
All material must be in the original, labeled container.
- Household maintenance products – oil paints, stains, wood sealers, thinners, solvents, adhesives, glues
- Automotive products – gasoline and other fuels, auto batteries, car waxes, oil and gasoline mixtures, brake fluid, fuel additives
- Lawn & Garden products – insecticides, weed killers, pesticides, fertilizers
- Miscellaneous products – charcoal fluid, fluorescent bulbs/tubes, compact fluorescent bulbs, swimming pool chemicals, rechargeable household batteries, lithium, nickel, and Ni-cad batteries.
- Alkaline batteries can be disposed of in household trash.
Examples of Unacceptable Materials
- Asbestos
- Unknown materials
- Waste containing polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) (i.e. coolant from old appliances, transformers)
- Household garbage/trash mixed with any chemicals/fluids
- Business or medical waste
- Explosives, compressed gas cylinders
- Mercury
For more information regarding the identification of Household Hazardous Materials, call 757-933-2311.
I-64 East Hampton River Bridge Long-Term Traffic Shift
Beginning as early as 12 Jun, I-64 east in Hampton will encounter a new traffic pattern at the Hampton River bridge due to the construction of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL), Hampton Segment. This marks the end of the public use of two I-64 east bridges, one over the Hampton River and the other over the east branch of the Hampton River. These bridges will be demolished, and two new bridges will be constructed.
The project will widen I-64, repave the existing lanes, and add an additional 12-foot-wide travel lane in each direction from west of Mallory St. (exit 268) to LaSalle Ave. (exit 265A) for a total of 2 miles. This section of the interstate includes work on six mainline bridges and one pedestrian underpass. The two eastbound bridges over the Hampton River will be replaced, and the westbound Hampton River bridge will be widened and rehabilitated.
The work to implement the I-64 east traffic shift is expected to take place over several nights. Overnight ramp closures of the I-64 east off-ramp to Settlers Landing Rd./Hampton University (exit 267) will be utilized through June 13 from as early as 10 p.m. – 5 a.m.
During this shift, two eastbound lanes on I-64 will be shifted from the eastbound Hampton River bridge to the westbound bridge alongside I-64 west traffic between Armistead Ave./LaSalle Ave. (exit 265B) and Settlers Landing Rd./Hampton University (exit 267) to allow for the demolition and reconstruction of the eastbound bridge over the Hampton River.
This temporary traffic configuration is estimated to be in place until late 2026, when the construction of the new eastbound Hampton River bridges is anticipated to be completed and reopened to eastbound traffic.
Motorists are encouraged to use I-664 as an alternate route to avoid the work area when possible and are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones. Always obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs, and drive distraction-free.
For the most up-to-date road and travel conditions, consider using VDOT’s free 511 Virginia traffic tools or the free 511-integrated Waze GPS app. Visit the VDOT’s 511Virginia.org website and mobile app for information regarding construction, traffic, incidents, and congestion, as well as access to traffic cameras, weather-related impacts, and more.
2025 Hurricane Season Preparation
As hurricane season approaches, from June 1 to November 30, preparedness is more important than ever. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a 60 percent chance of an above-normal hurricane season in 2025, with the potential for 6 to 10 hurricanes producing winds of 74 mph or higher. By taking proactive steps now, we can help safeguard Newport News and reduce the potential impact of these powerful storms.
Some Ways to Prepare:
- Stay Informed: Monitor emergency alerts and local news for updates.
- Support Your Neighbors: Reach out to neighbors who may require extra help preparing for a storm.
- Gather Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials such as medications, water, nonperishable food, flashlights, disinfectant supplies, and extra batteries. There should be three days worth of food and water per person in your emergency supply kit.
- Plan for Your Pets: Ensure you have at least a three-day supply of food and water for each pet, along with any necessary medications.
- Know Your Evacuation Zone: Understand your evacuation routes and decide where you would go in case of an emergency. For detailed information on evacuation zones, click here. First, select the “Find Your Evacuation Zone” button, then go to the “Emergency Management” tab.
Taking a few simple steps now, such as knowing your evacuation zone, gathering essential supplies, and staying informed, can make a big difference during a hurricane. Don’t wait for the storm to start preparing. Stay proactive, stay safe, and be ready.
What You Need to Know About Short-Term Rentals in Newport News
Warm weather, busy travel plans, and local events make this a popular time for short-term rentals in Newport News. If you’re planning to list your home—or even a room—on a platform like Airbnb or Vrbo, there’s an important step you need to take: Acquire a Short-Term Rental (STR) Permit.
To support safe and well-managed neighborhoods and provide clear guidelines for property owners, the City of Newport News adopted a short-term rental ordinance in 2022 that requires all short-term rental (STR) operators to obtain a permit.
We’re here to help you stay informed and make compliance easy because when everyone follows the rules, our whole city benefits.
Why Does This Matter?
Operating a short-term rental without a permit is a violation of the Newport News Zoning Ordinance Section 45-517.1. Permits ensure that all STR properties meet important zoning and public safety standards, protecting guests, neighbors, and your investment.
For the past couple of years, the city has offered a grace period to encourage voluntary compliance—but moving forward, active enforcement is underway. We’re promoting the policy now to give you the time and tools to meet the requirements with confidence.
Easy Steps to Get Compliant
Getting permitted is simple—and we’ve created tools to make it even easier:
- Download the Short-Term Rental Application and Checklist
- Review the helpful permit checklist to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information.
- Submit your completed application and materials to: [email protected]
Need assistance?
- Call the Department of Planning at 757-926-8761, email [email protected], or simply dial 311 to be directed to the right city resource. We’re happy to walk you through the process!
Hosting Responsibly = A Win for Everyone
Whether you’re renting out your home for a few weekends or the entire season, adhering to the short-term rental policy helps maintain the quality of life in our neighborhoods and ensures that guests have a safe and positive experience in Newport News.
Avoid headaches later by taking care of the permit now—and help us keep our community thriving and welcoming for all.
Key Reminders:
- All short-term rentals (less than 30 days) require a permit—this includes listings through online platforms.
- If you’re unsure whether your property qualifies, please reach out. We’re here to help.
- Stay ahead of enforcement. A permit now means peace of mind all season long.
Resources at Your Fingertips:
Don’t know where to start? Call 311 and we’ll connect you to the right person.
- Email for questions: [email protected]
- Phone support: 757-926-8761
Let’s work together to keep short-term rentals safe, well-managed, and fully permitted in Newport News.
Traffic Shift Scheduled to Begin on I-64 West at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard and on I-64 East at Hampton Roads Center Parkway
Lanes shifted as early as May 19 on I-64 west near the J. Clyde Morris Blvd overpass. Use the shoulder lane when merging to I-64 west from the on-ramp from J. Clyde Morris Blvd. Learn more about two upcoming shifts here. Be prepared for additional delays during high traffic volume times.
Memorial Day 2025 City Closures
In observance of Memorial Day, Newport News will be closing several municipal offices and adjusting hours for public services.
City Offices – Closed Monday, May 26.
City Libraries — Closed Sunday, May 25, and Monday, May 26.
Recreation Centers — Huntington Park Beach will be open Memorial Day Weekend (Saturday, May 25 through Monday, May 27).
Community Centers Brittingham-Midtown, Courthouse Way, Denbigh, Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, and Riverview Gymnastics Center. – Closed Monday May 26.
Garbage, recycling and bulk waste collections – No collections on Monday, May 26. All collections for the week will be delayed one day, i.e., Monday’s collections will take place on Tuesday, Tuesday’s on Wednesday, Wednesday’s on Thursday, and Thursday’s on Friday.
There will be NO holiday collection delay for 18-gallon, Black Bin recyclers.
Recovery Operations Center (i.e., convenience/drop-off center) – closed Saturday, May 24 and Monday, May 26.
Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter — (Serves the residents of Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson and York County) — Operating Hours on Monday, May 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. for the Reunite Lobby and 12 p.m.-5 p.m. for the Adoption Center.
Street Sweeping on Friday 5/23
It’s been officially spring, and that means it’s time for the city’s annual spring cleaning! The Street Maintenance Division of the Public Works Department began street sweeping operations on Monday, April 8, and will continue through mid-October, weather permitting. Village Green is in Section E from the map. Section E’s scheduled dates are: May 19-23; Jul 28-31; and Oct 13-17. Village Green already has a sign up at our entrance for the streets to be swept Friday, May 23.
Street sweeping plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of our local waterways by removing accumulated debris and pollutants, such as sand, salt, metals, petroleum products, and bacteria, before they enter the storm drains. This season, the city is deploying ten mechanical street sweepers at regularly scheduled times to clear debris from city-maintained roads. In 2023 alone, 20,085 miles of curbs were swept and 6,558 dump truck loads of debris were removed from city streets.
Please be mindful of the bright signs posted on major streets leading into neighborhoods, indicating temporary parking restrictions for street sweeping.
On street sweeping days, ensure that vehicles, basketball goals, and other bulk items are off the streets by 9 a.m.; parking may resume after 3 p.m.
For a detailed street sweeping schedule and more information about the program, please visit the Public Works Website or call 757-933-2311.
REAL ID Requirements Take Effect May 7
As we move closer to the federal REAL ID deadline, it’s important to be aware of new identification requirements that may affect your travel and access to certain federal facilities.
You’ll need a REAL ID (or another federally accepted form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or military ID) to:
- Board a domestic flight
- Enter a secure federal facility
- Enter a military base (some may already require this)
If you choose to keep a standard license or ID, it will be marked with “Federal Limits Apply” at your next renewal. While it’s still valid for driving and general identification purposes, it will not be accepted for federally regulated purposes listed above after May 7.
For more details, including a list of acceptable documents and frequently asked questions, visit the Virginia DMV’s REAL ID webpage.