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A gathering of government, business and community leaders attended a groundbreaking event today at the highly-anticipated Springline at District 60, a mixed-use development near the intersection of Midlothian Turnpike and Chippenham Parkway.

The project will be developed over the next few years, with part of phase one called The James at Springline, which includes 298 apartment units and 28,000 square-feet of ground level retail.

The investment for this portion of the project is over $80 million and is scheduled to be completed in 2025.

The James at Springline development team is led by Collins Capital Partners. In addition to The James at Springline, phase one will also include a 150,000 square-foot office building, a festival-like common area, a sports entertainment & tournament venue, a specialty market, and a structured parking garage.

The James at Springline will feature amenities including an expansive lobby with office pods and conference area; fireplaces; an interior courtyard with pool and lounge areas; a roof deck with fitness center; and secure garage parking.

“We’re thrilled that today’s groundbreaking marks the beginning of an exciting new mixed-use development in Chesterfield that will offer residents an opportunity to live, work, shop, and play in one place,” said Art Collins, Managing Principal of Collins Capital Partners.

The master plan for the entire 42-acre Springline at District 60 envisions a mixed-use urban village with abundant green space, convenient bike and walking paths, and wide streetscapes. At the center of the development will be a large open space that will be the perfect place for concerts, farmer’s markets, festivals and other events.

In a joint statement, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chair Kevin Carroll and Midlothian Board of Supervisors representative Mark Miller stated: “Springline at District 60 is the perfect gateway to the county and builds on the success of Stonebridge, the Boulders and other adjacent projects. This is exactly the type of development many of our residents have been asking for in Chesterfield.”

The Chesterfield Economic Development Authority (EDA) purchased the former Spring Rock Green shopping center with the intention of creating a walkable urban mixed-use center that connects Stonebridge and the Boulders. The EDA hired Cooper Carry architectural firm to develop the overall master plan, which was done collaboratively with Collins Capital Partners. The James at Springline will be financed with partners Kaufman Jacobs, Cantor Fitzgerald, Silverstein Properties and Truist Bank the construction lender.

Future phases will include more apartments, townhouses, additional commercial space, a second office building, luxury hotel and other entertainment venues. Demolition of the site commenced in March 2023.

Media Contacts

Rob Shinn
Email: Rob@capresults.net

Garrett Hart
Chesterfield Economic Development
Email: hartga@chesterfield.gov

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Leading Household Products Manufacturer to Invest $27 million, create 53 jobs in Appomattox Industrial Center

Church & Dwight Co., Inc., a major American manufacturer of household products, announced today it will invest $27 million to expand its facility at 1851 Touchstone Drive in Chesterfield County. The company will upfit existing space to establish a new manufacturing line for an innovative scent-boosting laundry product. The project will create 53 new jobs.

“Church & Dwight’s continued investment in Chesterfield County sends a clear message that manufacturers know they have a strong partner in the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Proximity to major interstates and population centers positions the company to easily deliver its iconic household products to target markets, and the region’s skilled manufacturing workforce supports Church & Dwight’s steady growth. We look forward to building on our strong partnership in the years to come.”

“Virginia has a rich manufacturing history in advanced materials manufacturing, and Church & Dwight’s long-term success reinforces our outstanding logistical advantages, strong industry workforce, and stable business climate,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “The company is creating high-quality manufacturing jobs that benefit Chesterfield County and the regional economy and the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program will recruit and train skilled talent to facilitate Church & Dwight’s expanding production.”

“We decided to reinvest in Chesterfield County because of the skilled and stable workforce within our existing manufacturing plant and access to the regional manufacturing workforce, as well as the collaborative relationship we’ve enjoyed with the state and local governments, community college, and manufacturing support organizations,” said the Director of Supply Chain Capabilities Andrew Glowatsky. “Located off Interstate 95, we have one-day access to markets in the northeast, the south, and some of our major distribution centers. We also very much appreciate the strong support we receive and the long-term partnerships we have with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Chesterfield Economic Development, Community College Workforce Alliance, Chesterfield Department of Utilities, and the Virginia Manufacturers Association.”

“Today is another exciting day for advanced manufacturing in Chesterfield County! We celebrate alongside Church & Dwight Co. as they have chosen to reinvest in their Chesterfield facility and take full advantage of a terrific workforce, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment,” said Kevin Carroll, Chair of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “Their new business line will continue to drive innovation and we look forward to a new product made right here in Chesterfield.”

“The decision of Church & Dwight Co. to invest $27 million to expand its operation in Chesterfield County very clearly says this company is finding value by doing business in Virginia,” said Stephen A. Edwards, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority. “Here at The Port of Virginia we’re investing and expanding as well, and this will allow us to accommodate growing cargo volumes and provide even greater access to worldwide markets for companies like Church & Dwight. We are committed to helping Church & Dwight grow its global reach and look forward to continuing the collaborative relationship we have with this company.”

“Church & Dwight’s investment of $27 million is a prime example of the positive economic expansion that can be achieved in Virginia,” said Senator Joseph D. Morrissey. “Their commitment to bringing 53 new jobs to Chesterfield County is an invaluable contribution to the local economy. Not only does it provide valuable job opportunities, but it also shows that the Commonwealth of Virginia is a great place for businesses to invest and succeed.”

“I am excited about Church & Dwight’s continued investment in Chesterfield,” said Delegate Carrie E. Coyner. “This is yet another manufacturing partner that recognizes the exceptional services offered by our community. We are grateful that every new job provides more opportunities for citizens to work where they live.”

Church & Dwight Co., Inc., founded in 1846, is the leading U.S. producer of sodium bicarbonate, popularly known as baking soda. The Company manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household, and specialty products under recognized brand names such as ARM & HAMMER®, TROJAN®, OXICLEAN®, SPINBRUSH®, FIRST RESPONSE®, NAIR®, ORAJEL®, XTRA®, L’IL CRITTERS® and VITAFUSION®, BATISTE®, WATERPIK®, ZICAM®, THERABREATH®, and HERO MIGHTY PATCH®. These 14 key brands represent approximately 85% of the Company’s product sales.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $300,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program.

Support for Church & Dwight Co.’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners, with funding support from the Governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly. Launched in 2019, the program accelerates new facility start-ups through the direct delivery of recruitment and training services that are fully customized to a company’s unique products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture. All program services are provided at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies as an incentive for job creation.

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$210 million First-Phase Project Will Transform Midlothian-Chippenham Gateway

Chesterfield Board of Supervisors and the Economic Development Authority of Chesterfield County are thrilled to announce the demolition of the old and underutilized Spring Rock Green shopping center to make way for an exciting new development – Springline at District 60.

This mixed-use urban village will be a go-to destination and gateway development, placing it firmly as a centerpiece of Chesterfield County. Focusing on dense, walkable community living, Springline at District 60 celebrates the site’s unique history while bringing innovative opportunities and experiences to the area.

Springline at District 60 is poised to become a name-recognized location and a place to drive to, not through. At the center of the development will be an open, green plaza/gathering space ideal for concerts, farmers’ markets, festivals, and public events.

The 42-acre site will include abundant green space and connectivity, featuring walking and biking trails, wide streetscapes, and structured parking to promote walkability, safety, and convenience.

The internationally recognized Cooper Carry architectural firm has created the overall master plan, project identity, and branding for Springline at District 60. Cooper Carry has extensive expertise working on projects of this type and has incorporated best practices from other highly successful projects in their plans.

The name and branding for Springline and District 60 were developed through a six-month process and included participation from more than two dozen community, business, and county leaders. Springline is the newly established name of the mixed-use development and celebrates the rich history of Beaufont Springs close to the site. District 60 is the name for the broader gateway area along Midlothian Turnpike, which includes Stonebridge, Springline, adjacent businesses, and a growing number of development projects in the future.

Learn More About the History of the Area
Learn More About the Name & Branding

Construction at Springline at District 60 will occur in multiple phases. The first phase will include a 6-story mixed-use building, a 150,000 sq. ft. corporate office building, a festival-like common area, and a large sports tournament and entertainment venue. The remaining phases will add more apartments, townhouses, additional commercial space, another office building, an extended-stay hotel, entertainment venues, and an expanded central festival square.

As previously announced, Collins Enterprises will develop the initial phase of the residential and commercial properties for Springline at District 60. The company will build 300 residential units, 27,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, and a secure, enclosed parking facility. The total investment from Collins for this portion of the project is approximately $85 million. The phase one office building will contain 150,000 sq. ft. of modern, class-A space and cost roughly $50 million.

The development expands on the existing successes at Stonebridge and connects the Boulders and Stonebridge to create three exciting activity centers. Plans include direct road and greenway access to the Boulders and future opportunities to build pedestrian and trail connections across Midlothian Turnpike and throughout the area.

The Chesterfield Economic Development Authority is excited to unveil this vibrant and innovative new development. We can’t wait to welcome visitors and residents to experience all Springline at District 60 offers. For more information, contact ced@choosechesterfield.com.

 

 

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors has requested that the Economic Development Authority seek out qualified Master Developers and/or development partners for the Southside Speedway property.

The goal of this initiative is to identify experienced and capable partners who can master plan, propose appropriate phasing, arrange financing, construct, and successfully operate this important development.

The Master Developer should have a proven track record of completing projects of comparable size, complexity, and mix of product as what is envisioned for this area of the county. Additionally, the Master Developer should have experience working with sports tourism-related businesses.

To qualify, the Master Developer must also demonstrate the financial strength necessary to complete the proposed facilities, as well as the strengths necessary to successfully operate such facilities.

The Economic Development Authority is excited to work with a Master Developer who can bring new opportunities and growth to the Southside Speedway property, and looks forward to reviewing qualifications from interested parties.

For more information about this opportunity or to submit qualifications, please contact the Economic Development Authority at rfq@choosechesterfield.com or call 804-318-8550 or visit https://chesterfieldbusiness.com/rfq/.

California-based Plenty Unlimited Inc. will create 300 jobs at $300 million campus in Meadowville Technology Park in Chesterfield County Virginia

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that California-based Plenty Unlimited Inc. will build the world’s largest indoor vertical farming campus, a $300 million investment in Chesterfield County’s Meadowville Technology Park. The company recently secured $400 million in a Series E financing round, the largest investment to date for an indoor farming company.

Plenty has developed the world’s most advanced indoor farm, powered by the company’s more than 200 patent assets, to efficiently and sustainably grow clean, flavorful produce year-round on its more than 30-foot grow towers.

Plenty will complete its Richmond Farm Campus in multiple phases over the next six years, creating more than 300 full-time jobs. The company’s first farm on this site, a dedicated Driscoll’s berry farm to be completed by winter 2023-2024, will be the first to grow indoor, vertically farmed strawberries at scale.

Virginia successfully competed with five other states for the project, which further advances the Commonwealth’s reputation as a leader in the fast-growing industry of Controlled Environment Agriculture.

“Plenty’s decision to establish its first major east coast vertical farming campus in Virginia shines a spotlight on the advantages that make the Commonwealth the best location in the nation for companies growing our food safely and sustainably indoors,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This transformational project further bolsters Virginia’s agriculture and technology industries and positions the Commonwealth as a leader in this next generation of agriculture. I am pleased to welcome Plenty to Virginia and look forward to the company’s growth and success in Chesterfield County.”

“Indoor farming is fundamentally changing agribusiness with environmentally and socially responsible farming technologies that make local, sustainable produce available to more communities,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Plenty will be able to easily grow and distribute fresh products to thousands of customers from its new campus in Chesterfield County, reinforcing the benefits of Virginia’s strategic location and dedicated workforce. We are proud to welcome Plenty to the Commonwealth and thank the company for further advancing the Controlled Environment Agriculture industry in Virginia.”

“There will come a day when we look back in disbelief that we would source fresh produce from half a world away, when companies like Plenty are proving that we can grow that same produce right here, year-round, in a way that not only tastes better, but that is also dramatically better for our environment,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr. “Technological advancement is what drives the industry of agriculture forward, so I am thrilled Virginia is playing a leading role in the indoor farming revolution that is changing, for the better, where much of our food is coming from.”

“At Plenty, we’re on a mission to sustainably grow fresh food for everyone, everywhere,” said Plenty CEO Arama Kukutai. “This campus will raise the bar on what indoor vertical farming can deliver. The scale and sophistication of what we’re building here in Virginia will make it possible to economically grow a variety of produce with superior quality and flavor. We look forward to continuing to work in close partnership with the government of Virginia as we endeavor to rewrite the rules of agriculture.”

“Bringing the world’s largest indoor vertical farming facility to Chesterfield is a tremendous success for the county,” said Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman Chris Winslow. “Indoor vertical farming is a growing and important way to bring fresh, locally grown products to consumers throughout the year and Plenty Unlimited is the national leader in this field. We could not be more pleased to welcome them to Chesterfield.”

“We are excited that Plenty has chosen Chesterfield County for their first East Coast facility,” said Felicia Howard, Vice President Economic Development Strategy, Dominion Energy. “Dominion Energy looks forward to providing them the necessary power to successfully reach new markets.”

“It is clear that access to an expanding international trade gateway was key in Plenty Unlimited’s strategic decision to come to Chesterfield County and we look forward to partnering with them as their global gateway,” said Stephen A. Edwards, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority. “Plenty is building a one-of-a-kind, environmentally conscious vertical farming operation and this company’s sustainability philosophy aligns with The Port of Virginia’s larger goal of becoming completely carbon neutral by 2040. Virginia is the top location for agriculture-related cargo, and we welcome of the news of Plenty’s investment in Virginia.”

Meadowville Technology Park is a premiere, master-planned, publicly owned industrial park located in business-friendly Chesterfield County, Virginia. The park sits at the junction of Interstate 295 and the historic James River. Meadowville Technology Park is one of Virginia’s largest, most innovative and most connected employment centers. Learn more at Meadowville.com

“Innovation, technology, and agriculture go hand-in-hand in Virginia, and we are thrilled that Chesterfield County will soon be home to the world’s largest indoor farming campus,” said Jennifer Wakefield, President and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership. “We’re pleased that Plenty is the latest sustainable company to select Greater Richmond to grow their operations.”

“Plenty Unlimited Inc.’s decision to expand in Chesterfield County is welcomed news,” said Congressman A. Donald McEachin. “This sizable investment in our Commonwealth will create hundreds of jobs, bolster our agricultural industry, and increase healthy food production while doing so in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. I am proud that Virginia is helping lead in the indoor farming space, and I look forward to Plenty Unlimited’s success in our Commonwealth.”

“I am beyond proud to hear that Plenty will be making Virginia’s largest vertical farming investment,” said Senator Joseph D. Morrissey. “Not only is Plenty investing $300 million, they will also be bringing 300 much-needed jobs. It is initiatives such as this one that will make Central Virginia, and the Commonwealth as a whole, thrive for generations to come.”

“Access to fresh fruits and vegetables is a key component of healthy and thriving communities, so I am thrilled to welcome Plenty to Meadowville, where they will be leading the way in vertical farming technology right here in the 62nd district,” said Delegate Carrie Coyner. “Families in our community cannot wait to pick up a carton of strawberries in our local grocery stores and have peace of mind knowing they were grown right here in our own backyard and that every time we purchase your products, we are supporting our local economy.”

Founded in 2014, Plenty is rewriting the rules of agriculture through its advanced technology platform that can grow fresh produce anywhere in the world, year-round, with peak-season quality and up to 350x more yield per acre than conventional farms. Plenty’s proprietary approach preserves the world’s natural resources, makes healthy produce available to all communities, and creates resilience in our food systems against weather, location, pests, and climate. Plenty operates the largest-of-its-kind indoor plant science research facility in Laramie, Wyoming, and is currently building the world’s most advanced, vertical indoor farm in Compton, California.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services worked with Chesterfield County, the Greater Richmond Partnership, and Dominion Energy to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $2.4 million grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund, as well as a $500,000 grant from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund to assist Chesterfield County in winning this project for Virginia. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program, as well as the Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit for new, full-time jobs created.

Support for Plenty’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners, with funding support from the Governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly. Launched in 2019, the program accelerates new facility start-ups through the direct delivery of recruitment and training services that are fully customized to a company’s unique products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture. All program services are provided at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies as an incentive for job creation.

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CONTACT

Chesterfield Economic Development
Contact: Matt McLaren
Email: mclarenm@chesterfield.gov

Bon Secours opened its new freestanding emergency center in Chester with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday.

The new emergency center is located off U.S. Route 1 on Moores Lake Road and will officially open to patients on May 25th.

The Bon Secours—Chester Emergency Center addresses the critical need for emergency care access in a previously underserved area of the community, while strategically looking ahead to meet the continued growth in Chesterfield and beyond.

Joe Wilkins, the president of Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center spoke about the new emergency center.

“The new Bon Secours Chester Emergency Center is meeting a critical need for residents of the Chester community with increased access to emergency health care services. We are proud to answer the call of our local EMS partners with this new facility and look forward to caring for this community in the days, weeks, and years to come,” Wilkins said. “This facility will help us fill the gap between St. Francis Medical Center and Southside Medical Center providing easier, more convenient access to care for those living in the southern part of our Richmond market.”

Facts about the new facility

• One story, 24,300 ft.² of new construction, created with input from local EMS for the best location and design
• $25.6 million investment in the community
• 11-bed, full-service emergency care for adults and children, from minor injuries to life-threatening concerns
• Occupational Health Clinic operated by Harness Health Partners
• State-of-the-art CT imaging to identify dangerous internal conditions like strokes and fractures so fast and effective care can be provided
• A spacious wide bore MRI with customizable lighting to help reduce stress and claustrophobia
• State of the art x-ray technology for more accurate diagnostics and care
• Bone density scanning to help diagnose osteoporosis and support bone strength
• 3-D mammography for more accurate breast health screening
• Two ultrasound rooms, one just for women’s imaging
• Pediatric scoliosis imaging — a first on Southside!

 

The Chesterfield Economic Development Authority (EDA) announced that Collins Enterprises will develop the initial phase of the residential and commercial properties for the proposed mixed-use development on the site of Spring Rock Green on Midlothian Turnpike.

Collins will be responsible for developing 300 residential units, 27,000 square-feet of commercial space and a secure, enclosed parking facility during the first phase of the project. The total investment from Collins for this portion of the project is approximately $75 million.

“Our vision is to establish a destination community for people to live, work, shop and play. The streets will be walkable and have open spaces weaving throughout the development. People will be drawn to the high quality residential, shopping, restaurants and entertainment that creates an exciting overall experience,” said Art Collins, President of Collins Enterprises.

Collins has been nationally recognized for development projects across the country. They have been involved in scores of successful projects including Palmer Square in New Jersey and Harbor Plaza in Connecticut. Collins has assisted cities redevelop their downtowns, with recent examples being Hudson Park in Yonkers, NY and the Freemason Harbor projects in Norfolk, VA. This mixed-use development project is another opportunity for Collins to partner with the Chesterfield EDA to realize the potential of this underdeveloped gateway property.

“Having a developer with the track record of success as that of Collins Enterprises will ensure that our vision of a vibrant, mixed-use community will be done right,” said Midlothian District Supervisor Leslie Haley. “This project will represent both a gateway for the county and a signature destination place that our residents have been seeking for some time.”

The project is currently going through the land-use approval process with the Chesterfield County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors. Pending approval from those bodies, construction could begin in the late summer of this year and should be completed in mid-2024.

Collins was initially drawn to the property due to its central location within the region as well as ease of access to the site and potential to connect the highly successful Boulders and Stonebridge developments.

Media Contacts

Arthur Collins
Collins Enterprises
Phone: (203) 541-1301
Email: acollins@collins-llc.com

Garrett Hart
Chesterfield Economic Development
Phone: (804) 318-8550
Email: hartga@chesterfield.gov

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Bon Secours leaders and associates recently joined together for a “Pop the Top” celebration to mark the kickoff of construction on a vertical expansion of Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center in Chesterfield County. The nearly 179,000-square-foot renovation and expansion includes the addition of 55 acute care beds, including nine obstetrical beds, four intensive care beds, 42 medical/surgical beds, 10 observation beds and an ancillary services expansion through the renovation of existing hospital space as well as a two-story vertical expansion.

“We are thrilled to mark the official kickoff of construction of our hospital expansion today as we continue our pursuit to better meet the growing health care needs of our patients in Chesterfield County and the surrounding areas,” said Joe Wilkins, president of Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center. “These additional beds will provide greater capacity and access for our patients and will ultimately enable Bon Secours to continue to provide quality, compassionate care for this growing community now and well into the future.”

Chesterfield County is the fastest-growing county in the Richmond metropolitan area. St. Francis Medical Center is located in the heart of this large area of population growth in Midlothian, and it serves patients in surrounding counties, including Chesterfield, Powhatan, Amelia and Cumberland/Nottoway. St. Francis’ planned expansion is a response to an increased need for inpatient beds from patients for medical, surgical, obstetrical and intensive care, stemming in part from increased complexity of inpatient services and population growth, especially growth in the population of ages 65 and older who require more inpatient care than other age groups. This expansion will help meet a growing need for the community and will increase access to the hospital’s innovative resources, outstanding clinical staff and exceptional patient care.

This project, totaling 178,869 square feet, will involve the renovation of 69,169 square feet of existing space as well as 109,700 square feet of new construction. New construction will include a two-story expansion over the current critical care tower. This expansion will increase the hospital’s capacity to a total of 185 licensed beds and will include the following:

• Expansion of obstetrical beds from 21 to 30 beds
• Expansion of intensive care beds from 16 to 20
• Expansion of NICU from 10 open bays to 11 private rooms and three bays
• Expansion of medical/surgical services by adding 42 new medical/surgical beds
• Addition of 10 observation beds which will allow for clinical decision care to be provided on a dedicated unit, reducing the number of observation patients occupying a licensed inpatient bed
• Expansion of pre-admission testing, which will allow Bon Secours to see additional patients more efficiently before surgery to support improved surgical outcomes
• Relocation of an open MRI to St. Francis Medical Center’s campus, which will be the only Bon Secours open MRI south of the James River

This $108 million expansion received Certificate of Public Need (COPN) approval in 2019, and construction is expected to be complete in early 2024.

In 2021, Bon Secours broke ground on an 11-bed freestanding emergency department located 19 miles away in Chester that will serve as an extension of St. Francis Medical Center. This will be the fourth freestanding ED operated by Bon Secours in Richmond, which is expected to open later this year.

Shamin Hotels, Inc. is moving forward with a 250-room upscale, full-service hotel and conference center at the Stonebridge Development in Chesterfield county. The Embassy Suites hotel and conference center is increasing in size from original plans and will add new amenities since it was originally announced in July 2019. 

The plan being submitted includes a 25,000- square-foot conference center, a 12,500 square foot ballroom, a 10,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor terrace as well as a resort-style swimming pool with an outdoor bar. The original plan was for a 200-room hotel, 10,000-square-foot conference center and did not include outdoor amenities. 

“We are excited to be moving forward with a best-in-class hotel and conference center in Chesterfield county,” said Neil Amin, Chief Executive Officer of Shamin Hotels, Inc. “In a post-pandemic world, travelers are increasingly searching for outdoor gathering areas and amenities, and we are pleased to incorporate these features in our conference center hotel at Stonebridge. This project comprises the best attributes of all of the full-service hotels we have purchased or developed.”

Shamin Hotels owns 66 hotels in five states and has invested more than $1 billion in Virginia since its first investment in 1979. Shamin is the largest hotel owner in the Commonwealth and one of the 10th largest hotel owners in the country. The Stonebridge development represents an additional $125 million investment in Chesterfield county by Shamin and 150 new employees.  

“The addition of a 25,000-square-foot conference center is a game-changer for Chesterfield,” said County Administrator Joe Casey. “This will be the largest hotel conference center south of the James River and will help us attract larger events and meetings in an upscale environment.”

The project will be located directly across from the newly-announced mixed-use development project on the site of the existing Spring Rock Green Center across Midlothian Turnpike. 

“The project builds on the success of Stonebridge and the momentum we are seeing in this part of Midlothian. With the addition of the mixed-use development to the north and enhanced connectivity with the Boulders, this area is quickly becoming one of the most exciting areas in the region,” said Board of Supervisors Representaive Leslie Haley. 

The hotel will also enhance the growing sports tourism market in Chesterfield. The Spring Rock Green redevelopment recently announced that an ice rink and sports entertainment facility will be an important component of that project. Stonebridge includes Richmond Volleyball Club, the largest volleyball facility in the Greater Richmond area, which hosts a number of tournaments throughout the year. 

“The new hotel complements the exciting rise of sports tourism in the region and Chesterfield, including the proximity to the existing volleyball and future hockey facilities,” said Jack Berry, President of Richmond Region Tourism.

Building on the success of the adjacent Stonebridge project which was re-developed from the former Cloverleaf Mall, the Chesterfield County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is working with the Board of Supervisors to purchase a property on the northwest corner of Midlothian Turnpike near Chippenham Parkway for a vibrant, new mixed-use development featuring high-quality residential, office, commercial and entertainment venues.

The project will revitalize the area between Stonebridge and the Boulders office park and residential complexes to the west.

At the center of the development will be an open, green plaza/gathering space that will be an ideal location for concerts, farmers market, festivals and public events. The 42-acre site will include abundant green space, walkability and connectivity.

“Chesterfield residents are seeking new options to live, work, shop and play in a central location. This proposal gives the county another quality mixed-use development at the eastern gateway to the county, that will serve as a destination for residents and visitors,” said Board of Supervisors Representative Leslie Haley. “The project will create a strong sense of community, integrate attractive greenspaces, and celebrate the area’s unique history, while creating jobs and generating significant tax revenue for the county. The project will also add connectivity to the Boulders,” Haley said.

It’s anticipated that the Board of Supervisors will approve a request to schedule a public hearing August 25th at their regularly scheduled board meeting today to consider funding the $16 million purchase. In addition to the public hearing, there will be other opportunities for public comment as the property goes through the zoning process in the coming months.

The EDA has hired the internationally recognized Cooper Carry architectural firm to assist with design of the site. Cooper Carry has extensive expertise working on projects of this type, and will incorporate best practices from other highly successful projects in their plans.

“Cooper Carry has worked on projects around the world and we immediately recognized the potential for this site,” said Cooper Carry representative Abbey Oklak. “People want fun, activity- oriented destinations, and this has the potential to be a central gathering place for the county.”

The project, which is consistent with the County’s Comprehensive Plan, will be constructed in multiple phases. The first phase will include residential apartments, commercial space, restaurants, an office building, a festival-like common area and a large sports tournament and entertainment venue. The second phase will add townhouses, more commercial space, another office building, entertainment venues, and an expanded central festival square. The EDA is currently working with top level private developers on specific parts of the project and more detailed information will be available prior to the August board meeting.

“As the private development interests in this property are zoned and sold by the EDA, the remaining county investment is for the relocation of a nearby police precinct to a much more visible and accessible location and consolidation of a new school board office to best maximize student space and programs at the Chesterfield Career and Technical Center,” said County Administrator Joe Casey.

The site has excellent transportation access, with close proximity to the Chippenham Parkway. The site is also on the GRTC public transportation route. Plans include constructing a new road access into the Boulders office park, thereby creating a direct connection between these important developments.
The project will include walking and biking trails, abundant greenspace, wide streetscapes and the county’s first structured parking to promote walkability, safety and convenience.

The area near the project offers a rich history, including the Beaufont Spring House, built in 1896, which launched a series of spring water companies and later manufactured carbonated soft drinks, beer and ice throughout the early 1900’s. The area was reimagined again in the 1950’s, when it was transformed into a thriving entertainment, event and recreational space featuring volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, and a dance pavilion. The project will honor this unique history, with easy access to the historic springhouse and revival of the area as a community gathering space.

The current site is home to several commercial entities. The businesses in the outparcels directly along Midlothian Turnpike will not be impacted. For those occupying parts of the project site, there will be a transition period for purposes of relocating the businesses to other locations or potentially in the new development. The Chesterfield Economic Development Department will work with the existing tenants to discuss relocation options.

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