NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) — State lawmakers approved a budget that includes a $40 million investment in Newport News.

The funds will be used to build Navy housing and strengthen Downtown revitalization efforts.

These cooperative efforts between the city, Newport News Shipbuilding, and the Navy play a critical role in addressing the need for additional services, housing, transportation, and other amenities, all benefitting talent recruitment and retention efforts by the Shipyard, Navy, and other downtown businesses.

“As a city and community, it is our responsibility to ensure Sailors assigned to the Newport News area have the best housing and quality of life services available,” said Mayor Phillip Jones. “This is a critical step as we move forward in our partnership with the Navy and Newport News Shipbuilding and validates city and Commonwealth support for major federal investment in Downtown Newport News to enhance the quality of Sailor’s lives.  The commitment by the Commonwealth will catapult new investment and boost the current revitalization occurring downtown.”

This is the most significant financial commitment the City of Newport News has received from the Commonwealth in recent history.