FY27 Community Project Funding Requests

Recipient: James City County

Location: 1365 Colonial Parkway, Jamestown, VA 23081

Committee: Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $ 3,960,000

Justification: The funding would be used to support the preservation, interpretation, and continued research of Jamestown, one of the most historically significant sites in the United States. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because Jamestown represents the foundational origins of the nation—encompassing over 15,000 years of Indigenous history, the arrival of European settlers in 1607, the forced migration of enslaved Africans, and the establishment of the first form of representative government in America. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors engage with this irreplaceable site, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex intersections of democracy, diversity, and early American history through direct interaction with ongoing archaeological work and educational programming. As a leading historical and research institution, Jamestown serves students, scholars, and lifelong learners nationwide by preserving and sharing discoveries that are critical to understanding the American story. Federal investment will ensure the long-term protection, accessibility, and educational impact of this nationally significant site for future generations.

Letter

Recipient: Middlesex County Virginia Sheriff’s Office

Location: 2788 General Puller Hwy, Saluda, VA 23149

Committee: Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $1,500,000

Justification: The funding would be used to integrate Middlesex County into the King and Queen-led regional radio communications system, enhancing interoperability with neighboring jurisdictions. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because the County’s current system requires software patches or radio swaps to communicate across jurisdictions, creating dangerous delays during multi-county emergency responses. Integration into a regional system will enable seamless, real-time communication among law enforcement and emergency personnel, improving officer safety, especially during pursuits that cross county lines, and ensuring more coordinated responses to critical incidents. Additionally, the project will strengthen communications infrastructure redundancy across the region, increasing reliability during emergencies. Federal investment will result in faster response times, improved public safety, and long-term cost savings through shared, modernized communications capabilities.

Letter

Recipient: Hanover County, VA

Location: 7522 County Complex Rd, Hanover, VA 23069

Committee: Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $3,040,224.60

Justification: The funding would be used to equip Hanover County deputies with modern, GPS-enabled portable radios to enhance communications capabilities and improve emergency response. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses critical public safety needs by replacing aging equipment that lacks real-time location tracking and secure communication features. Deputies frequently operate outside their vehicles during patrols, searches, and emergency incidents, where reliable communication is essential; GPS-enabled radios will allow dispatchers and supervisors to immediately locate personnel, coordinate faster responses, and provide rapid assistance in high-risk situations. The project will also improve response times and coordination during emergencies—including violent incidents, natural disasters, and mutual-aid operations—by enhancing situational awareness and interoperability with regional partners. Federal investment in this proven, standards-based technology will strengthen officer and public safety, reduce operational risks, and ensure more efficient and reliable use of taxpayer resources over the long term.

Letter

Recipient: William and Mary

Location: 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg 23185

Committee: Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $1,500,000

Justification: The funding would be used to acquire an Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM) at William & Mary to expand access to advanced imaging capabilities and support interdisciplinary scientific research. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it provides shared, high-impact research infrastructure that will serve a broad range of disciplines—including chemistry, physics, biology, geology, health sciences, and anthropology—by enabling the analysis of delicate, hydrated, and complex materials not accessible with traditional microscopy. The ESEM will strengthen collaboration across the School of Computing, Data Science & Physics, the School of Arts & Sciences, and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, while also supporting graduate research, innovation, and workforce development. Beyond campus, the instrument will serve as a regional resource through established partnerships with other Virginia institutions, expanding access to advanced scientific tools and promoting collaborative, externally funded research. Federal investment will enhance research capacity, drive scientific discovery, and maximize the return on taxpayer dollars by supporting shared-use infrastructure that benefits the broader Commonwealth.

Letter

Recipient: William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS)

Location: 1370 Greate Road, Gloucester Point, VA 23062

Committee: Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $1,600,000

Justification: The funding would be used to support the Center for Environmental and Estuarine Forecasting (CEEF), enhancing its ability to deliver critical scientific data, forecasting tools, and decision-support resources for coastal Virginia. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it directly benefits approximately five million residents who rely on accurate environmental forecasting to prepare for and respond to increasing threats such as intensified storms, prolonged flooding, declining water quality, and impacts to economically vital marine resources. By improving forecasting capabilities and coordination with state agencies—including the Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Health, and Department of Transportation—the CEEF enables faster, more effective responses to emergencies and long-term planning for coastal resilience. Federal investment will help mitigate economic and environmental risks, strengthen community preparedness, and position Virginia as a national and global leader in coastal and estuarine forecasting, attracting additional research investment and maximizing the return on taxpayer resources.

Letter

Recipient: Essex County, Virginia

Location: 713 Marsh Street, Tappahannock, VA 22560

Committee: Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $ 1,718,135

Justification: The funding would be used to construct a Joint Maintenance Facility (JMF) to replace Essex County’s outdated 1940s-era fleet maintenance building and to install a short access road to improve connectivity to nearby thoroughfares. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will modernize and centralize critical fleet operations for public schools, emergency services, law enforcement, and county operations—improving efficiency, safety, and reliability across essential government services. The current undersized and deteriorating facility no longer meets operational or safety standards, creating delays and maintenance challenges that can hinder emergency response and service delivery. Federal investment will enhance response times, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and ensure the County can effectively support essential public services for its residents.

Letter

Recipient: US Army Corps of Engineers

Requestor: Middle Peninsula Chesapeake Bay Public Access Authority

Location: 2959 Potato Neck Road, Port Haywood, VA 23138

Committee: Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $4,000,000

Justification: The funding would be used to dredge the federally designated shallow-draft channel at Winter Harbor, restoring safe and reliable navigation for commercial and recreational users. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because shoaling has rendered the channel inaccessible, disrupting commercial fishing, aquaculture operations, marine trades, and water-based tourism that are critical to the local economy. Restoring navigability will support economic activity, improve boating safety, and ensure continued access to the Chesapeake Bay for watermen, residents, and visitors. Federal investment will also help sustain property values and local tax revenues that support essential government services, while preventing further economic losses and safety risks associated with diverted marine traffic. By maintaining this critical waterway, the project strengthens the long-term economic vitality and resilience of Mathews County and the surrounding region.

Letter

Recipient: City of Williamsburg, VA

Location: 401 Lafayette Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Committee: Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $760,000

Justification: The funding would be used to rehabilitate and upgrade critical filtration components at the City’s water treatment facility to ensure continued compliance with water quality standards and the reliable delivery of safe drinking water. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because the facility, originally constructed in 1940, serves more than 16,000 residents as well as millions of annual visitors, including those visiting major historic and educational destinations such as Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William & Mary. Modernizing the filtration system is essential to maintaining regulatory compliance, preventing system failures, and ensuring consistent, high-quality water for a diverse and growing population. Federal investment will strengthen public health protections, support economic activity tied to tourism, and extend the lifespan and efficiency of critical infrastructure, maximizing long-term value for taxpayers.

Letter

Requestor: Westmoreland County, VA

Location: 16380 Kings Hwy, Montross, VA 22520

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $2,000,000

Justification: The funding would be used to renovate and repurpose an existing public facility to expand access to community services and programming. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it maximizes federal investment by preserving and reusing existing infrastructure rather than incurring the higher costs of new construction, while preventing further deterioration and potential vacancy. The renovated space will support youth and family programming, senior services, recreation, wellness, and mental health resources, as well as provide space for arts and cultural activities and emergency uses such as community warming shelters. Partnerships with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and YMCA will further enhance service delivery and community impact. Federal investment will improve quality of life in a rural area with limited public facilities, support workforce retention and community stability, and generate economic benefits through both construction activity and ongoing programming, ensuring the long-term viability of this important public asset.

Recipient: Henrico County, VA

Location: 10501 Staples Mill Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $2,640,000

Justification: The funding would be used to construct and connect missing sidewalk infrastructure along Staples Mill Road, improving pedestrian safety and accessibility for students, residents, and visitors. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because the corridor currently lacks continuous pedestrian accommodations, forcing individuals—including students traveling to Glen Allen High School and patrons of the Glen Allen–Henrico County Public Library—to walk along or across a high-volume arterial roadway. The Virginia Department of Transportation has identified this segment as among the highest-risk corridors in the state for pedestrian safety, with a history of injury crashes exceeding statewide averages for similar roadways. Federal investment will provide a cost-effective solution to address these safety risks, enhance mobility for individuals of all ages and abilities, and strengthen connectivity between key community assets, improving overall quality of life and public safety.

Letter

Recipient: City of Poquoson, VA

Location: 653 Poquoson Avenue Poquoson, VA 23662

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $809,558

Justification: The funding would be used to construct sidewalk infrastructure along Upper Poquoson Avenue to improve pedestrian safety, accessibility, and connectivity within the community. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it responds to strong demonstrated community support, including public input at City Council meetings and local advocacy efforts, and addresses a clear need for safer pedestrian accommodations. By providing dedicated space for pedestrians, the project will reduce the risk of traffic-related injuries and associated public safety and healthcare costs, while promoting active transportation and healthier lifestyles. Improved connectivity to schools, local businesses, and community services will support economic activity and reduce reliance on vehicle travel, helping to decrease congestion and emissions. Federal investment will deliver long-term, cost-effective benefits that advance public safety, public health, environmental sustainability, and efficient transportation infrastructure.

Letter

Recipient: Town of Urbanna, VA

Location: 210 Oyster Road, Urbanna, VA 23175

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $4,400,000

Justification: The funding would be used to repair and restore vehicular access to the bridge serving as the only land-based connection to the town’s marina. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because the bridge has been closed to vehicles due to documented safety concerns, significantly limiting access to a critical public asset that supports commerce, tourism, and local industry. The marina includes a thirty-two-slip facility, with at least sixteen slips required to remain available for transient boaters under prior federal grant agreements, and the current access limitations prevent the full utilization of these federally supported investments. Restoring access will enable continued use of the marina by commercial watermen, recreational users, and visitors, while supporting local economic activity and heritage tourism, including community attractions such as the town’s walking tour and waterfront amenities. The project will also reestablish access to a public boat landing used for educational programs and state-supported activities. Federal investment will maximize the value of prior funding, improve public safety, and ensure the long-term functionality and economic viability of this important waterfront asset.

Letter

Recipient: Middle Peninsula Chesapeake Bay Public Access Authority

Location: 4521 Lewis B Puller Memorial Highway, Mattaponi, VA 23110

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $2,000,000

Justification: The funding would be used to acquire upland dredge material storage sites to support the maintenance of federally authorized shallow-draft channels across the Middle Peninsula. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because maintaining navigable waterways is essential to supporting commercial fishing, aquaculture, marine trades, and recreational boating that drive coastal economies. When channels become unnavigable due to shoaling, dredging is required to ensure safe passage and sustain working waterfronts; however, suitable disposal and storage of dredged material is a critical component of these efforts. By providing designated upland storage sites—based on scientific analysis conducted by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science —this project enables continued dredging operations while also supporting coastal resilience through the beneficial reuse of appropriate materials for shoreline stabilization and habitat restoration. Federal investment will preserve economic activity and ensure the long-term viability of coastal communities throughout Virginia’s First Congressional District.

Letter

Recipient: Gloucester County, VA

Location: 6504 Main Street, Gloucester, VA, 23061

Committee: Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Amount Requested: $1,509,062

Justification: The funding would be used to preserve and restore the 1766 Colonial Courthouse and the 1824 Clayton Building in Gloucester County, two of the community’s most historically and architecturally significant public structures. This project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it protects irreplaceable assets that are central to the County’s identity and to the broader story of America’s founding. Restoration will expand educational programming, interpretive exhibits, and public access, allowing students, residents, and visitors to engage directly with the sites where early civic life and Revolutionary-era history unfolded. Federal investment will also generate economic benefits by strengthening heritage tourism, increasing visitation to Main Street businesses, and supporting local jobs in retail, hospitality, and skilled trades involved in the restoration work. Over time, increased tourism will contribute to local tax revenues that support essential services and infrastructure. Given the scale and cost of preserving structures of this age, federal support is critical to ensuring their long-term stability and continued public use, while delivering lasting cultural and economic value to Gloucester County and the surrounding region.

Letter