Virginia, October 26, 2025
Virginia’s ascent to data center prominence began with strategic incentives in the 1990s, developing into a multi-billion-dollar industry. Inside Climate News highlights that Loudoun County hosts more servers than any other location, significantly bolstering the digital economy. As the industry expands, there are increasing calls for sustainable energy solutions to support its growth.
Richmond, Virginia – Major Construction Projects Underway
Richmond, Virginia is witnessing three major construction projects with wide regional impact. GreenCity Arena will be a 17,000-seat, $250 million multi-purpose venue planned for completion in 2026. It is located at East Parham Road and Interstate 95 on the site of the former Best Products headquarters. Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail spans 49.1 miles from Cape Charles to Hallwood, with the first 3.5 miles under construction and a completion target in Fall 2026. Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind is located about 24 nautical miles off Virginia Beach, covering 112,800 acres with a capacity of 2.6 gigawatts, enough to power about 660,000 homes, and is planned to be completed by the end of 2026.
GreenCity Arena
The GreenCity Arena is a proposed multi-purpose entertainment and sports venue located near Richmond. Planned to be completed in 2026, the arena will feature approximately 17,000 seats and is expected to cost $250 million. It will be situated at the intersection of East Parham Road and Interstate 95, on the site of the former Best Products headquarters. The project aims to revitalize the area and provide a state-of-the-art facility for various events.
Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail
Construction has begun on the Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail, a dedicated, paved bicycle and pedestrian path spanning 49.1 miles from Cape Charles to Hallwood. The trail follows the route of the former Bay Coast Railroad and is expected to be completed by Fall 2026. The first 3.5 miles, extending from downtown Cape Charles to U.S. Route 13 and Cheriton, are currently under construction. This project aims to enhance recreational opportunities and promote eco-tourism in the region.
Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project is an offshore wind energy initiative located about 24 nautical miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. Developed by Dominion Energy, this project is the largest offshore wind development in the U.S., covering a lease area of 112,800 acres with an expected capacity of 2.6 gigawatts. The project is expected to generate electricity equivalent to the consumption of 660,000 homes and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Background Context
These projects reflect Richmond’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. The GreenCity Arena is part of a broader effort to revitalize urban areas and provide modern facilities for entertainment and sports. The Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail aims to promote healthy lifestyles and attract tourists, while the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project underscores the state’s dedication to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. Collectively, these initiatives are poised to have a lasting impact on the region’s infrastructure and economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GreenCity Arena?
The GreenCity Arena is a proposed multi-purpose entertainment and sports venue located near Richmond, Virginia. Planned to be completed in 2026, the arena will feature approximately 17,000 seats and is expected to cost $250 million. It will be situated at the intersection of East Parham Road and Interstate 95, on the site of the former Best Products headquarters.
What is the Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail?
The Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail is a dedicated, paved bicycle and pedestrian path spanning 49.1 miles from Cape Charles to Hallwood. The trail follows the route of the former Bay Coast Railroad and is expected to be completed by Fall 2026. The first 3.5 miles, extending from downtown Cape Charles to U.S. Route 13 and Cheriton, are currently under construction.
What is the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project?
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project is an offshore wind energy initiative located about 24 nautical miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. Developed by Dominion Energy, this project is the largest offshore wind development in the U.S., covering a lease area of 112,800 acres with an expected capacity of 2.6 gigawatts. The project is expected to generate electricity equivalent to the consumption of 660,000 homes and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
What is the significance of these construction projects?
These projects reflect Richmond’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. The GreenCity Arena is part of a broader effort to revitalize urban areas and provide modern facilities for entertainment and sports. The Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail aims to promote healthy lifestyles and attract tourists, while the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project underscores the state’s dedication to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. Collectively, these initiatives are poised to have a lasting impact on the region’s infrastructure and economy.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| GreenCity Arena | Location: near Richmond at East Parham Road and Interstate 95; Capacity: ~17,000 seats; Cost: $250 million; Completion: 2026 |
| Eastern Shore Rail Trail | Length: 49.1 miles (Cape Charles to Hallwood); First 3.5 miles under construction; Completion: Fall 2026 |
| Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind | Location: ~24 nautical miles off Virginia Beach; Lease area: 112,800 acres; Capacity: 2.6 GW; Homes powered: ~660,000; Completion: end of 2026 |
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Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
The VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionvanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Virginia and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Virginia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and the Home Builders Association of Virginia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Williams Mullen. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
