JAMES CITY COUNTY — A proposed live performance venue that could bring concerts, theatrical productions and other events to James City County took center stage Tuesday as supervisors received their first detailed look at the estimated $83 million project.
The presentation outlined plans for a 1,000-seat indoor performance hall paired with an outdoor amphitheater. The facility is being designed by Clark Nexsen and GuernseyTingle, the firms behind the county’s Sports & Events Center.
Design work is about 35% complete, according to project representatives. If the county moves forward, designers expect to complete plans within six months, followed by an estimated 22 to 24 months of construction.
Officials said the venue is intended to attract visitors who would stay overnight rather than attend a performance and immediately leave, generating additional business for hotels, restaurants and other local establishments.
“Not many places can have a rock concert on a Friday night and a piano recital on a Sunday afternoon,” said Rick Hibbert, client engagement practice leader at Clark Nexsen. “This facility can do just that.
Supervisors took no action on the proposal Tuesday. Before they decide whether to move forward with the project, county officials intend to gather more public feedback.
The board also discussed increasing the county’s real estate tax exemption for qualifying senior citizens and residents with disabilities. The current exemption applies to the first $150,000 of a home’s assessed value. Supervisors expressed support for raising that amount, potentially to $200,000, but delayed a vote until their Sept. 8 meeting.
County staff also presented plans to renovate Norse Hall, a community building dating to 1907 that was donated to James City County last year. Officials said the hall has long hosted community meetings, weddings and other gatherings but is currently unsuitable for public use.
The proposed renovation would be completed in three phases over fiscal years 2027 through 2029, with an estimated cost of about $398,000. An additional $175,000 would be required if the county chooses a historic renovation approach.
Supervisors also received updates on road work from the Virginia Department of Transportation. Officials reported paving has been completed on Route 5, portions of Route 60 and the Croaker Park and Ride, while work continues on secondary roads, including Powhatan Shore, Springhill and Monticello Woods.
Other business included a proclamation recognizing National Night Out on Aug. 4, a proclamation designating August as National Emergency Management Awareness Month and an update on the state’’s phaseout of foam food containers.
