NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Economic Development Authority of the City of Newport News is under contract to acquire Warwick Village Shopping Plaza, located at 11006 Warwick Blvd.
The acquisition of the shopping center aligns with the EDA’s existing ownership of neighboring 11008 Warwick Boulevard and 89 Nelson Drive. City officials say all 3 properties will be important in implementing the goals of the Great Hilton Area Plan and enhancing the entrance into the Hilton Village neighborhood.
It's a plan business owners within the plaza are welcoming.
"I think that the plaza definitely has room for improvement," said Emmanuel Brooks, who owns Stylez Unique Barber Salon & Spa "However, it's really good for business. It's multicultural.”
Once anchored by a Kmart, Brooks' business now sits alongside a daycare, Family Dollar, Smoke BBQ, and other stores.
No concrete plans exist for the shopping center as of this moment. Officials with the EDA say they leased the plaza at 11008 Warwick Boulevard to Riverside Health System for its residency program and other health services.
EDA officials says they plan to engage and work with the neighborhood, including existing tenants and the broader community, on the future vision for the site next to Hilton Village.
The contract price for the acquisition was $6,500,000.