NEWPORT NEWS – The Commonwealth of Virginia awarded a $3,061,400 Growth and Opportunity for Virginia, or GO Virginia, grant to support creation of the Hampton Roads Mobility Innovation Center, a project officials say will expand aviation research, testing and workforce training tied to advanced air mobility and uncrewed aircraft.
Officials say the center will operate at two locations: the Newport News-Williamsburg Airport for traditional aircraft activity and the Newport News Park Radio Control Club, where uncrewed aircraft can be flown beyond the operator’s line of sight for research and workforce training.
The grant supports the city’s effort to expand the airport’s role beyond commercial flights into aviation research, testing and workforce training tied to emerging aircraft technology, officials said.
“This investment represents a major advancement in positioning Newport News and Hampton Roads at the forefront of the aviation and aerospace industries of the future,” said Mayor Phillip D. Jones.
Airport officials said the facility will support the initiative through office space, coordination with FAA partners and technical expertise, with future operations expected to include testing of both traditional and uncrewed aircraft.
“The Mobility Innovation Center reflects the strength of regional collaboration and the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports both industry and workforce needs,” said Lindsey Carney-Smith, chair of the Peninsula Airport Commission.
Tom Frantz, chair of the GO Virginia Region 5 Council, added, “The MIC will bring jobs and growth to the region and support Virginia’s leadership in aviation and technology.”
The Newport News Economic Development Authority will serve as the sub-grantee for the GO Virginia funding and help lead the project with the Peninsula Airport Commission and regional partners.
“This project represents a strategic investment in our long-term growth,” said Cathy Williams, Chair of the Newport News Economic Development Authority. “The center strengthens Newport News’ competitive position in aviation and aerospace, enhancing our ability to attract new business investment, support industry expansion, and develop a workforce ready to meet industry demand.”
Universal Solutions International Inc., a Newport News firm, will serve as a technical partner in developing and operating the center.
