Archive for category: News Article

 

In March, Chesterfield Economic Development, in partnership with the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, launched Chesterfield Eats to Go, an online resource to help Chesterfield residents and visitors identify which restaurants near them are open for pickup or delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Using a GIS mapping system format, patrons can zoom-in on their designated area of Chesterfield County, select one of the pinned restaurants highlighted on the map, and retrieve essential contact information and hours of operation for their desired restaurant.

The website also works on most mobile devices – allowing residents to transfer the restaurant’s address to most mobile driving apps to ensure safe, and timely travel to pick up to-go orders.

On May 8, 2020, Governor Northam released Executive Order 61 moving much of Virginia into Phase One recovery under the Governor’s Forward Virginia Blueprint.

Executive Order 61 allows for restaurants to re-open with outdoor dining only. “Chesterfield Eats To Go” will now include those with outdoor dining options so residents can easily identify those establishments.

“Restaurants play an essential part in our county’s commercial sector and reopening safely will be an important next step as we move forward,” said Chesterfield County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey. “’Chesterfield Eats To Go’ continues to be an important tool in that effort. It makes it easy for Chesterfield residents, companies and visitors to continue to support our local restaurants that have worked diligently through this pandemic to serve our community.”

More restaurants will continue to be added to the system as their available services are verified.

If you are a restaurant offering pickup or deliver services but are not currently included on Chesterfield Eats to Go or if you are a restaurant that now offers outside dining but are not currently included on Chesterfield Eats to Go, please complete the restaurant listing form.

If the information associated with your business is inaccurate or incomplete, please contact Kathryn Abelt with any corrections at abeltk@chesterfield.gov. Requested corrections and additions will be made during county business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA — Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, ChamberRVA Chesterfield Cabinet, and Chesterfield County have united to support a coordinated relaunching of the Chesterfield economy. Relaunch Chesterfield focuses on issues for businesses and elected officials around the county to consider as reopening plans are made. Relaunch Chesterfield is meant to work in conjunction with the Governors’ Covid-19 Business Task Force recommendations as they too begin the work of relaunch Virginia’s economy.

Relaunch Chesterfield will be developed in partnership with business leaders across a broad array of industry sectors and organizations around the county, including but not limited to the following sections:

• Health and Safety First/Internal & External Customers
• Retail
• Restaurants
• Hospitality
• Arts & Entertainment
• Healthcare Services
• Personal Care Service Industry
• K-12 Education & Childcare and Daycare

“Relaunch Chesterfield is meant to serve as a start to the conversation for returning more employees and businesses to work, rather than serving as a final, prescriptive set of answers or solutions”, according to Chesterfield President, Danielle Fitz-Hugh. “We know that it is vitally important to be smart under the new normal that we find ourselves in, and that with careful planning and collaboration, we can safely and effectively return businesses to commerce, employees to work, and our economy to a stable footing.”

“It is our hope that Relaunch Chesterfield provides a solid starting point for individual businesses and governmental leaders to make decisions on how and when to safely open more of the county’s economy,” said Leslie Haley, Chesterfield County Board Chair.

“ChamberRVA has and will continue to work with regional partners, like the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, in combatting the effects of COVID-19. As we continue to implement the health and safety measures that will get us beyond the peak of cases and flatten the curve, we need to begin the process of restarting our economy. We applaud Chesterfield County leadership and the Chesterfield Chamber in developing plans to reopen Chesterfield. We look forward to our continued partnership in reopening businesses throughout the region.”

“Businesses throughout the county are anxious to get back to work while maintaining the well-being of their employees and their customers. Successfully combatting COVID-19 will require aggressive, collaborative action among governments, health care professionals, businesses, and citizens. In Chesterfield, we can do it,” according to Dr. Joseph Casey, Chesterfield County Administrator.

For more information or to sign up for an industry workgroup visit www.chesterfieldchamber.com/relaunch-chesterfield.

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About Chesterfield Economic Development:
Chesterfield Economic Development works on a free and confidential basis with domestic and foreign companies planning to establish new facilities, relocate existing facilities, or expand current facilities. The department also assists existing businesses and industries already located in Chesterfield with any business-related issues. CED staff members will assist with site selection requirements, information and research needs, public relations and relocation services, small business issues, or streamlining regulatory processes.

About Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce:
To be the champion for the business community, fostering growth and development, transformational relationships, and a thriving environment in Chesterfield County. To learn more about our organization and how we can be “Your Key to Business” please visit www.chesterfieldchamber.com or call 804-748-6364.

About ChamberRVA Chesterfield Cabinet:
ChamberRVA is the chamber of commerce representing the entire greater Richmond region – one city, seven counties and one town – since 1867. The chamber’s mission is to build a thriving regional community by supporting the success of members, providing a strong business voice, and developing RVA’s future leaders. Learn more about ChamberRVA at chamberrva.com.

Bans public gatherings of more than 10 people

RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today issued a statewide order to protect the health and safety of Virginians and reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. Executive Order Fifty-Three orders the closure of certain non-essential businesses, bans all gatherings of more than 10 people, and closes all K-12 schools for the remainder of the academic year. Governor Northam is also urging all Virginians to avoid non-essential travel outside the home, if and when possible.

This order goes into effect at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020 and will remain in place until 11:59 PM on Thursday, April 23, 2020.

“This is an unprecedented situation, and it requires unprecedented actions to protect public health and save lives,” said Governor Northam. “I know the next several weeks will be difficult. These restrictions on non-essential businesses will create hardships on the businesses and employees affected. But they are necessary, and we do not undertake them lightly. I am calling on Virginians to sacrifice now, so that we can get through this together.”

In addition, Virginia is launching a statewide media campaign to ensure Virginians fully understand their risk and do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. The Commonwealth’s “Health in Your Hands” campaign will include radio and television spots as well as statewide billboards and highway signs.

Public Gatherings

All gatherings of more than 10 people are banned statewide, beginning at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. This does not include gatherings that involve the provision of health care or medical services, access to essential services for low-income residents, such as food banks; operations of the media; law enforcement agencies; or operations of government.

K-12 Schools

All schools will remain closed through the end of this academic year. The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) will issue guidance to help divisions execute plans to continue instruction, while ensuring students are served equitably, regardless of income level, access to technology, English learner status, or special needs. This includes options for additional instruction through summer programming, integrating instruction into coursework next year, and allowing students to make up content. VDOE will submit a waiver to the federal government to lift end-of-year testing requirements and is exploring options to waive state mandated tests.

Recreation and Entertainment Businesses

The following recreation and entertainment businesses are considered non-essential and must close to the public beginning at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020:

• Theaters, performing arts centers, concert venues, museums, and other indoor entertainment centers;
• Fitness centers, gymnasiums, recreation centers, indoor sports facilities, indoor exercise facilities;
• Beauty salons, barber shops, spas, massage parlors, tanning salons, tattoo shops, and any other location where personal care or personal grooming services are performed that would not allow compliance with social distancing guidelines to remain six feet apart;
• Racetracks and historic horse racing facilities;
• Bowling alleys, skating rinks, arcades, amusement parks, trampoline parks, fairs, arts and craft facilities, aquariums, zoos, escape rooms, indoor shooting ranges, public and private social clubs, and all other places of indoor public amusement.

Dining and On-Site Alcohol Establishments

All dining and congregation areas in the following establishments must close to the public beginning at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. These establishments may continue to offer delivery and/or takeout services. Establishments include:

• Restaurants;
• Dining establishments;
• Food courts;
• Farmers markets;
• Breweries;
• Microbreweries;
• Distilleries;
• Wineries; and
• Tasting rooms.

Retail Businesses

The following retail businesses are considered essential and may remain open during normal business hours:

• Grocery stores, pharmacies, and other retailers that sell food and beverage products or pharmacy products, including dollar stores, and department stores with grocery or pharmacy operations;
• Medical, laboratory, and vision supply retailers;
• Electronic retailers that sell or service cell phones, computers, tablets, and other communications technology;
• Automotive parts, accessories, and tire retailers as well as automotive repair facilities;
• Home improvement, hardware, building material, and building supply retailers;
• Lawn and garden equipment retailers;
• Beer, wine, and liquor stores;
• Retail functions of gas stations and convenience stores;
• Retail located within healthcare facilities;
• Banks and other financial institutions with retail functions;
• Pet stores and feed stores;
• Printing and office supply stores; and
• Laundromats and dry cleaners.

All essential retail establishments must, to the extent possible, adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing practices on common surfaces, and other appropriate workplace guidance from state and federal authorities.

Any brick-and-mortar retail business not listed above must limit all in-person shopping to no more than 10 patrons per establishment, adhere to social distancing recommendations, sanitize common surfaces, and apply relevant workplace guidance from state and federal authorities. If any such business cannot adhere to the 10-patron limit with proper social distancing requirements, it must close.

Additional Guidance

Professional businesses not listed above must utilize telework as much as possible. Where telework is not feasible, such businesses must adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing procedures, and apply relevant workplace guidance from state and federal authorities, including CDC, OSHA, and the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.

Businesses in violation of this order may be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Nothing in Executive Order Fifty-Three limits the provision of health care or medical services, access to essential services for low-income residents, such as food banks; the operations of the media; law enforcement agencies; or operations of government.

The full text of Executive Order Fifty-Three can be found here. Additional guidance and a Frequently Asked Questions guide can be found here.

Watch the video of today’s announcement here.

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Co-pays eliminated for all Medicaid-covered services, tax relief, small businesses can begin applying for low-interest federal disaster loans

RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced further actions to protect public health and support Virginians impacted by the spread of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.

Video of today’s media briefing is available on FaceBook.

Increased Access to Health Care

Working with the Department of Medicaid Assistance Services, Governor Northam is increasing access to health care for Virginia’s 1.5 million Medicaid members and thousands of low-income residents. These actions include:

• Eliminating all co-payments for services covered by Medicaid and Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS), including COVID-19-related treatment as well as other medical care.
• Ensuring current Medicaid members do not inadvertently lose coverage due to lapses in paperwork or a change in circumstances.
• Permitting Medicaid members to obtain a 90-day supply of many routine prescriptions, an increase from the 30-day supply under previous rules.
• Waiving pre-approval requirements for many critical medical services, and enacting automatic extensions for approvals that are already in place.
• Expanding access to telehealth services, including allowing Medicaid reimbursement for providers who use telehealth with patients in the home.

Guidance for Child Care Providers

Governor Northam has directed the Department of Social Services to modify Virginia’s Child Care Subsidy program, which is currently caring for 25,000 children, to increase support and flexibility for enrolled families and providers. These modifications include:

• Expanding eligibility for school-aged children currently designated for part-day care to full-day care.
• Increasing the number of paid absences from 36 to 76 days for both level 1 and level 2 providers.
• Automatically extending eligibility for families due for eligibility redetermination in the near future by 2 months and temporarily suspending the requirement for face-to-face interviews.

As announced yesterday, the Northam administration has released guidance for child care providers to slow the spread of COVID-19, while ensuring continued support for essential personnel. These guidelines include:

• Childcare providers should limit capacity to 10 total individuals per room and prioritize care for children of essential personnel.
• Children should eat meals in their own classrooms and increase distance as much as possible, such as allowing only one classroom at a time to go outside and staggering exits and entrances to reduce contact.
• Staff and children should focus on basic health precautions, including regular hand washing and cleaning frequently touched objects.

Support for Impacted Businesses

Following a request submitted by Governor Northam on March 18, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) today approved an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration for Virginia. Small businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout the Commonwealth affected by the COVID-19 public health crisis can now apply for low-interest federal disaster loans of up to $2 million from the SBA to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other expenses. To submit a loan application through the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, please visit disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

Businesses impacted by COVID-19 can also request to defer the payment of state sales tax due tomorrow, March 20, 2020, for 30 days. When granted, businesses will be able to file no later than April 20, 2020 with a waiver of any penalties.

The Governor has requested that the Department of Taxation to extend the due date of payment of Virginia individual and corporate income taxes. While filing deadlines remain the same, the due date for individual and corporate income tax will now be June 1, 2020. Please note that interest will still accrue, so taxpayers who are able to pay by the original deadlines should do so.

Justice-Involved Population

Local, regional, and state public safety agencies are working in close coordination to ensure the safety of employees and residents in correctional facilities. The following information is issued jointly by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), the Virginia Sheriffs Association (VSA), the Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys (VACA), the Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (IDC), and the Virginia Association of Regional Jails (VARJ).

The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has suspended all in-person visitation to state correctional facilities and is complying with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control related to COVID-19. VADOC has also suspended all transfers from local and regional jails for the next 30 days to limit potential exposure to the virus.

Governor Northam is encouraging local criminal justice officials, including Commonwealth’s attorneys, defense attorneys, sheriffs, and other jail officials, to explore proactive measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring public safety. These recommendations include:

• Allowing sentence modifications that can reduce populations within the jails, as outlined in Va. Code § 19.2-303.
• Diverting offenders from being admitted into jail prior to trial, including the use of summonses by law enforcement in lieu of arrest pursuant to Va. Code § 19.2-74, and use of local pretrial programs as available and with consideration to local capacity.
• Considering ways to reduce low-risk offenders that are being held without bail in jails.
• Utilizing alternative solutions to incarceration such as home electronic monitoring, pursuant to Va. Code § 53.1-131.2.

Motor Vehicle Inspections

Governor Northam has directed the Virginia Department of State Police to suspend the enforcement of Motor Vehicle Safety Inspections for 60 days.

For a comprehensive list of actions Governor Northam has announced to combat COVID-19 in Virginia, visit virginia.gov/coronavirus.

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Governor Announces 60 New Manufacturing and Technology Jobs

 

 

Governor Ralph Northam today announced that DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (DuPont) will modernize and expand its manufacturing and technology presence in Chesterfield County, the company’s largest manufacturing site. A global provider of technology-based materials, ingredients, and solutions, DuPont will invest more than $75 million in the Spruance site, creating approximately 60 new jobs over the next several years.

“Innovative companies like DuPont help to keep Virginia at the forefront of a rapidly evolving manufacturing industry,” said Governor Northam. “DuPont has provided high-quality, well-paying jobs for hardworking Virginians for nearly a century. The expansion of the company’s Spruance site in Chesterfield County is a significant win, and we are grateful to DuPont for their ongoing commitment to the Commonwealth.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County and the Port of Virginia to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $250,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. Governor Northam also approved a performance-based grant of $1 million from the Virginia Investment Performance (VIP) program, an incentive that encourages capital investment by existing Virginia companies.

DuPont is eligible to receive Sales and Use Tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment, as well as benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program. The company also qualifies for a Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit for new, full-time jobs created and a Research and Development Expenses Tax Credit for qualifying R&D expenses. Funding and services to support DuPont employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP).

“DuPont’s decision to expand its manufacturing and technology presence in Chesterfield County is a strong testament to the greater Richmond region’s supportive environment for 21st-century manufacturers,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Companies from around the world continue to locate and expand in the area for its skilled workforce and top-tier institutions of higher education, including Virginia Commonwealth University, Reynolds Community College, and John Tyler Community College. Virginia is proud to have partnered with DuPont for 90 years, and we look forward to their next phase of growth.”

“The DuPont Spruance site has been proud to call Richmond it’s home for over 90 years,” said David Johnson, DuPont Spruance Site Manager. “Since 2015 we have invested more than $250 million to upgrade and improve our manufacturing assets that deliver essential innovations for our customers around the world. We value the support we have received from the Governor, Chesterfield County, and other state and local economic development organizations to bring skilled jobs to and expand manufacturing in the area.”

DuPont is a global leader in technology-based materials, ingredients, and solutions in electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food, and worker safety. DuPont has operated the Spruance Plant in Chesterfield County since 1929, where it currently produces DuPont™ Kevlar®, Nomex®, and Tyvek®.

DuPont is one of the largest employers in Chesterfield County and the Spruance site is the company’s single largest manufacturing site, employing more than 2,000 people. DuPont recently celebrated its 90th anniversary of operating and providing Richmond-area residents with competitive paying jobs for a broad range of skill sets and experience levels.

“We are so appreciative of DuPont’s presence in Chesterfield County for the past 90 years,” said Chair of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Leslie Haley. “We are excited that they continue to invest in and grow their Spruance facility. DuPont is a valued community partner and we congratulate them on celebrating 90 years of successful operations here in Chesterfield County.”

“It is always positive for the state’s economy when a business like DuPont decides to expand its presence in Virginia,” said John Reinhart, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority. “It is satisfying to learn that part of the decision to reinvest in the Commonwealth came as a result of the positive long-term relationship that exists between the Port and DuPont, as well as the incentives provided to the company through The Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant Program and the Virginia Port Tax Credits. We are looking forward to many more years of serving as the international trade gateway for DuPont.”

“DuPont has been a valuable corporate partner and employer in Chesterfield County for over 90 years, and we are proud to see this innovative company continue to grow in our community,” said Delegate Delores McQuinn. “The company’s willingness to continue investing in the Commonwealth’s growth and economy through this expansion will help to build community wealth.”

“DuPont continues to set the standard of innovation as it revolutionizes technology-based solutions,” said Senator Rosalyn Dance. “On behalf of the 16th Senatorial District, I would like to thank Governor Northam, DuPont, the Port of Virginia, and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for this tremendous accomplishment. We are immensely grateful for DuPont’s commitment over the past 90 years to increasing job opportunities for Virginians.”

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Contact:
Karen Aylward
Chesterfield County Economic Development
804-318-8550
AylwardK@chesterfield.gov

Shamin Hotels, Inc., the largest hotelier in Virginia, announced today that it plans to invest approximately $125,000,000 in Chesterfield County through multiple projects.

Shamin is currently developing a Residence Inn in Midlothian, Virginia adjacent to Johnston Willis Hospital and it plans to develop a 12-acre site along Interstate 95 and adjacent to its Shamin Park in Chester, Virginia by adding a dual-branded Hampton Inn and Home2Suites along with ancillary retail amenities that will serve its existing six Chester hotels.

Additionally, it plans to develop a destination hotel and conference center at Stonebridge in Midlothian, Virginia. The Stonebridge plan will include an upscale full-service hotel and most notably, a 10,000 square foot conference center. Retail shops, offices, entertainment, and multifamily housing will round out the development.  Shamin is also in preliminary discussions with a brewery to be located onsite.

Shamin Hotels chose to invest in Chesterfield County in 1979 when it purchased the Old Stage Motor Lodge in Walthall. Currently, Shamin owns and operates 10 hotels and various other developments throughout the county representing an investment of over $150,000,000 out of its over $1 billion investment in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

“Shamin Hotels entered the Richmond Region 40 years ago with the purchase of a small roadside motel in southern Chesterfield County and we are pleased to announce a new $125,000,000 investment in the county that many of our hard-working associates live in.  The Stonebridge re-development of the former Cloverleaf Mall has been a great catalyst for the Midlothian Turnpike corridor and we look forward to providing a mixed-use development that will cater to our growing number of tourists as well provide an upscale environment for the many events that take place in the county,” commented Neil Amin, Chief Executive Officer of Shamin Hotels.

“We are so excited about Shamin Hotels’ planned investments in Chesterfield County. The new hotels, the conference center, and mixed-use project will be tremendous assets and the perfect complement to the Stonebridge development. We greatly appreciate their long-standing and significant commitment to Chesterfield County. Shamin Hotels, Inc. is genuinely a valued corporate partner,” said Leslie Haley, Board of Supervisors, Chair.

With the increase in tourism, particularly sports tourism, as an economic driver for Chesterfield County, this new development, especially the conference center, will enable the county to reap more of the benefits of the visitors coming to the county for tournaments and events.

“The 10,000 SF Conference Center will be a tremendous asset for Chesterfield County and the region,” said Dr. Joe Casey, County Administrator. “The county has long had a need for first class meeting space that can accommodate the types of events that will come to the Greater Richmond Region. With this facility, Chesterfield County will now be able to compete for more of those tourism dollars and have our visitors meeting, playing and staying in the county.”

The project will encompass the last major parcel at Stonebridge, the successful public-private redevelopment of the former Cloverleaf Mall. Stonebridge is home to Kroger Marketplace, one of the company’s largest stores in the mid-Atlantic region; the Elements at Stonebridge, a Boyd Homes’ luxury apartment community; the Shops at Stonebridge and its newest neighbors, Richmond Volleyball Club and Chesterfield County Parks and Rec’s Senior Center.

“The Economic Development Authority is proud to have been able to facilitate this successful redevelopment effort. The new hotel and conference center complex will be the ultimate finish of one of the most successful public-private development partnerships,” said Art Heinz, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Economic Development Authority.

Shamin Hotels based in Chester, Virginia is a dynamic hospitality organization singularly focused on developing experiential hotels, providing superior guest service, producing career growth opportunities for its associates while supporting its communities.

Built on this 40-year foundation, Shamin hotels has become the largest hotel owner in the state of Virginia and is recognized as one of the top 20 hotel owners in the United States.

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Contact:

Economic Development Authority of Chesterfield
Contact: Garrett Hart
Phone: (804) 318-8550
Email: HartGA@chesterfield.gov

Shamin Hotels, Inc.
Contact: Craig Stechman
Phone: 804-777-9000 x123
Email: Craig.Stechman@shaminhotels.com

Company Creating 26 New Jobs at Expanded Manufacturing Facility

Governor Ralph Northam today announced that G.D USA, Inc., a member of the Coesia Group, will invest $3.73 million to increase capacity and enhance technology at its G.D USA facility in Chesterfield County. The project will create up to 26 new jobs.

“Virginia’s business climate and skilled workforce provide a supportive environment for the growth of global manufacturers like G.D USA, and we look forward to many more years of success for the company as it expands in Chesterfield County,” said Governor Northam. “G.D is a valued employer in the Commonwealth, and the company’s commitment to cutting-edge technology, innovation, and high-quality job opportunities reinforces the importance of industry-leading manufacturers in our economy.”

Coesia is a group of innovation-based industrial and packaging solutions companies headquartered in Bologna, Italy. Coesia’s companies are leaders in the sectors of advanced automated machinery and materials, industrial process solutions, and precision gears. Established in Richmond in 1978, G.D USA has since become the leading supplier of high-technology machinery for the production and packaging of tobacco products. With an extensive machine range, G.D is the only manufacturer producing complete high-speed lines and a wide range of solutions for the tobacco industry.

“G.D USA has created nearly 200 jobs in Virginia to date, each offering ample opportunity for advancement and skill development, and we are thrilled that the company will receive support for its continued hiring and training activities from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Manufacturing is a rapidly evolving industry, and investments in technology and talent are key to ensuring that Virginia citizens remain prepared for the jobs of the future. We are proud to partner with G.D USA as it grows its workforce in Chesterfield County.”

“G.D USA is excited to continue to grow our company in Virginia, and specifically Chesterfield County, for years to come,” said Roberto Parmeggiani, General Manager of the North America Tobacco division and Richmond site. “We appreciate the continued support from the state and county to help us move forward.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia and will support G.D USA’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP). VJIP provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs or experiencing technological change in order to support employee training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens. G.D USA is also eligible to receive Sales and Use Tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment.

“We are very excited that G.D USA has selected Chesterfield County for their current expansion,” said Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chair Leslie Haley. “The fact that they are one of our existing businesses and again chose Chesterfield makes it all the better. The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors recognizes the importance of maintaining and growing our existing businesses and we look forward to their continued success.”

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Tech repair brand uBreakiFix has opened its newest location, uBreakiFix Brandermill,  at 4672 Commonwealth Center Parkway in Midlothian. This is the brand’s third location in the Greater Richmond region, joining stores in Glen Allen and Short Pump.

uBreakiFix services anything with a power button, including smartphones, game consoles, tablets, computers, drones, hoverboards, and everything in between. To date, uBreakiFix has completed more than 4.5 million repairs. While common fixes include cracked screens, software issues, and camera issues, the brand offers support for most technical problems on any electronic device, regardless of make or model.

uBreakiFix Brandermill is the third location for Chuck Allen, who also owns the stores in Short Pump and Glen Allen. He plans to open additional stores in the future as well.

“I am excited to bring a much-needed service like uBreakiFix to Chesterfield County. I believe our store will add tremendous value to this community by providing high-quality services at a price point that people can actually afford.” Allen said.

uBreakiFix was founded in 2009 by millennial duo Justin Wetherill and David Reiff, who later partnered with Eddie Trujillo to transition their Internet-based brand to a brick and mortar model. By offering convenience, accessibility, and unparalleled customer service, uBreakiFix filled a gap in the repair marketplace and has since emerged as an industry leader in growth, service offerings, and authorized partnerships. In 2018, Wetherill was inducted into the Forbes Technology Council, and uBreakiFix earned a top spot on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list, ranking #18 overall, #1 in the Electronics Repair category, and #1 on the Top New Franchises list.

“We are so pleased to have uBreakiFix join Chesterfield County’s business community,” said Steve Elswick, Board of Supervisor for the Matoaca District. “Choosing to locate their 3rd store here is a testament to the strength of our local business climate.”

“At uBreakiFix, our goal is to take the hassle of a broken device and create the most positive, convenient experience possible for our customers,” Wetherill said. “We are a customer service company first, and a tech repair company second. As we continue to expand in the Greater Richmond Region, we look forward to becoming the trusted resource to keep consumers and businesses connected to the things and people who matter most.”

uBreakiFix Commonwealth is located at 4672 Commonwealth Center Parkway, Midlothian, VA 23112 and can be reached at 804-293-4143. For more information and to view a service menu, visit http://ubreakifix.com/locations/brandermill.

About uBreakiFix
Founded in 2009, uBreakiFix specializes in the repair of small electronics, ranging from smartphones, game consoles, tablets, computers, and everything in between. Cracked screens, software issues, camera issues, and most other problems can be repaired by visiting uBreakiFix stores across the U.S. and Canada. Since 2016, uBreakiFix has served as the exclusive walk-in repair partner for Google Pixel customers. In 2017, uBreakiFix expanded the partnership to include exclusive after sales support for Google Pixelbook customers. In 2018, uBreakiFix became a Samsung Care authorized service provider offering same-day, in-person support for Samsung Galaxy customers across the U.S. In 2018, uBreakiFix also ranked #18 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, #1 in the Electronics Repair category, and #1 on the Top New Franchises list. For more information, visit http://www.ubreakifix.com.

Sixty-two sports events attracting athletes, families and coaches from across the nation and several countries saw sports tourism’s local economic impact reach $41 million in fiscal 2018. It’s an increase of nearly $2.4 million over the previous year, as Chesterfield County matures as a sports destination. Sports tourism and the visitor spending it generates drove nearly $1.5 million in local tax revenue collected for the year.

River City Sportsplex, which the county acquired in December 2016, continued to establish itself nationally, earning SportsEvents Magazine’s acknowledgement as an “Ultimate Soccer and Lacrosse Destination and Venue, as well as a National Association of Counties Achievement Award for Chesterfield’s efforts to transform the once-fledgling venue into a premiere sports destination. River City Sportsplex’s share of the total sports tourism economic impact was $32.3 million. The facility hosted 549,000 visitors, including event participants and citizens making use of open-play opportunities — a benefit touted by local officials when deciding to purchase the facility. River City Sportsplex hosted 26 sports tourism events, growth that is providing significant support to local businesses.

“We’re successfully competing against some of the finest tournament venues across the country as we continue our momentum to make Chesterfield the place for sports tournaments,” said James Worsley, director for Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation. “Our facilities also are providing those who live here great opportunities to pursue recreation, as well as compete in some of the nation’s top events here at home.”

In addition to events at River City Sportsplex, Chesterfield hosted numerous other events throughout the county, highlighting 14 sports. Events took place at 13 facilities, including county-owned and private venues, such as USA Swimming’s Futures Championship at SwimRVA and the Professional Putters Association Eastern Open at Putt-Putt Fun Center. A new Richmond Volleyball Club facility also debuted in fiscal 2018, built in partnership with Chesterfield, and playing host to the Amateur Athletic Union Bid Tournament and Championship for girls volleyball, among other events.

The 62 sports tourism events held in Chesterfield saw 14 new events, including the Club Champions League II Fall and Spring festivals for boys and girls soccer. The Club Champions League now chooses to hold five of its events in Chesterfield. U.S. Lacrosse, the national governing body for the sport, also brought its U15 Nationals girls lacrosse tournament to Chesterfield.

Regionally, sports tourism showed an $84.1 million economic impact, compared to $81.7 million in fiscal 2017. Such parallel growth to the local impact is no accident as Chesterfield works with its neighbors to expand the region’s sports tourism capability. An example of the regional impact is that weekend hotel stays, for the first time, surpassed weekday business stays.

“It takes strong public-private partnership linked to facilities, venues, hotels, restaurants and retailers to produce tangible results,” said Dr. Joe Casey, county administrator. “We are very fortunate to have a fantastic group of professionals supporting sports tourism in Chesterfield and throughout the region.”

Chesterfield County Company Selected to
Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

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

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced the acceptance of a Chesterfield County company, STR Software, into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. The VALET program assists companies in the Commonwealth that are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. To participate, each business must meet both quantitative and qualitative selection criteria. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing export sales. To date, 316 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

“Increasing trade and trade-related jobs in Virginia are among VEDP’s top priorities,” said VEDP President and CEO Stephen Moret. “Executed by VEDP’s world-class International Trade team, the VALET program has a proven track record of providing participating companies with the tools and insights necessary for successful export sales. We expect that the Virginia companies joining the program will increase their international sales over the next two years, contributing meaningful growth to the Commonwealth’s economy.”

“The VALET program puts participating companies on the fast track to international business growth by connecting them with the necessary tools for successful international sales,” said Paul Grossman, VEDP Vice President of International Trade. “We are happy to welcome STR Software to VALET and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.”

Currently, the VALET program has 49 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet their international goals. These private sector service providers contribute essential expertise to assist companies in executing export plans and include attorneys, web designers, bankers, translators, accountants, and freight forwarders.

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

STR Software

Founded in 1986, STR Software develops, markets, and supports automated document delivery (email, fax, and print) and data transfer/IoT software solutions for businesses worldwide. STR Software’s solutions integrate with or run alongside major ERP packages, such as Oracle E-Business Suite, JD Edwards EnterpriseOne, and SAP, to fill native functionality gaps. For more information, visit www.strsoftware.com

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion, and international trade development.

For more information on the VALET Program, visit www.exportvirginia.org/services/programs-grants/

~ Commonwealth maximizes new federal tax incentive program, ensures local and regional priorities are represented ~

Governor Northam has announced the nomination of 212 Opportunity Zones to the U.S. Department of Treasury. This represents the maximum number of zones the Governor may nominate under the new federal tax tool that targets low-income census tracts.

Four of the nominated Opportunity Zones are located in Chesterfield County.

“Opportunity zones are an important federal tool to spur vitality in economic growth in communities across Virginia and we are committed to using them fully in this administration,” said Governor Northam. “By focusing on local and regional strategies, as well as Virginia’s diverse geography and economic opportunities, we selected a balance of zones that align with other state and local economic development and revitalization efforts. This ensures that Virginia is at the forefront of attracting new opportunity fund investments.”

The Federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 that passed last December included provisions for a new revitalization tool, the Opportunity Zone and Opportunity Fund. The zones and funds will allow investors to receive tax benefits on currently unrealized capital gains by investing those gains in qualified census tracts or “Opportunity Zones.” While the federal government is responsible for defining the investment process, the Governor of each state was given until April 20, 2018 to nominate qualified census tracts as Opportunity Zones, and Virginia was allowed to submit 212 nominations out of the 901 eligible low-income census tracts.

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) coordinated the nomination input process with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). These lead agencies based the Governor’s nominations on the best available criteria and input to ensure fairness across the state and among rural, urban, and suburban localities. They received input from localities throughout the Commonwealth in order to recognize the needs and opportunities at the level of government closest to investors and residents. In addition, statewide strategic criteria ensured there was balance between evaluating those census tracts in most need and those with the most likelihood of future investment.

Chesterfield County officials worked closely with DHCD and VEDP to provide input on areas that may benefit from the Opportunity Zone designation.

“We received information from localities, potential investors and the general public throughout the Opportunity Zone nomination process, and we focused on maintaining proportionality based on regional economic development organization levels,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “These nominations focus on local, regional and state priorities and ensure a strategic mix of zones with different types of revitalization needs and development opportunities for potential investors.”

The U.S. Treasury Department has 30 days to respond to the Governor’s nominations and is expected to accept and approve them as nominated, establishing Virginia’s Opportunity Zones by late spring of this year. However, the rules associated with qualification of Opportunity Investment Funds and Qualified Opportunity Investments must also be written at the federal level and are not anticipated to be formalized until later this calendar year. Virginia’s Opportunity Zones are already areas of significant effort and focus at the state and local level and these zone nominations are intended to attract additional private investments.

Visit the Virginia Opportunity Zone website for more information or view an interactive map of Virginia’s nominated zones.