NORFOLK — Mayor Kenny Alexander shared his vision for the future of MacArthur Center as a mixed-use community anchored by a 400-room military-themed hotel near the end of his State of the City address on Friday.
Alexander encouraged more than 1,200 attendees of the annual event, produced by the Hampton Roads Chamber, to envision a vibrant destination that celebrates the city’s culture, reconnects the city, attracts tourists and ensures economic vitality.
“By optimizing existing assets, we aim to solidify Norfolk as a premier hub for business, living, hospitality and tourism, elevating our city’s appeal to residents and visitors alike,” he said.
The concept includes 518,000 square feet of modern high-rise living for rent or purchase and 47,000 square feet of luxury amenities, he said. Part of the vision is a 2.5-acre pedestrian promenade with more than 172,000 square feet of retail space. He shared site renderings during the presentation.
When asked if a developer was involved and about the timeframe for the project, a Norfolk spokesperson said after the event that more information was not available.
The former Greyhound bus station in the Neon District is also undergoing a transformation into , a 220-unit apartment complex with parking garage, gym, recreation room and rooftop deck.
The project represents a $35 million capital investment with the creation of more than 300 construction jobs, Alexander said. The that The Breeden Co., based in Virginia Beach, is the developer on that project, which will include ground-floor retail, live-work units and public areas.
To continue thriving as a vibrant hub of art, culture and entertainment, the mayor said Scope Arena and the Chrysler Hall complex — more than 50 years old — are due for a transformative renovation. Changes at Scope will include up to 1,500 new seats; diverse food, beverage, club and dining options; expanded conference and restrooms; interactive technologies; and improved backstage efficiencies.
Chrysler Hall will see improved plaza accessibility with ramps, stairs and street enhancements; expanded lobbies; new seating configurations; stage, sound, lighting and acoustics upgrades; increased restroom capacity; and expanded food and beverage stations on every level.
Alexander said the city also is looking forward to the redevelopment of Military Circle mall as a dynamic hub bustling with life and vitality centered around community sports, residential and creative office spaces.
“As we reimagine our city, let’s bridge our past, present and future converging with history and innovation,” he said.
He referenced the city as a hub for climate science, higher education, health care, maritime industry, military, art and culture.
Alexander summarized the city’s progress over the past year: maintaining public safety as a top priority, economic development with job creation, a thriving innovation sector and an ongoing dedication toward building coastal resilience and combating homelessness.
“Norfolk has been steady — a true symbol of strength and resilience since 1682,” Alexander said. “Let’s build on these victories and assure Norfolk’s winning spirit prevails for generations to come.”
Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com
