The James City County Board of Supervisors received an update last week on plans for the county’s new consolidated Government Center, a $189 million project intended to centralize multiple government offices at one location. Assistant County Administrator Bradley Rinehimer told the Board that a groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated later this month, though specific details have not yet been finalized.
The new complex will be built at the corner of DePue Drive and Longhill Road, near Williamsburg. Rinehimer said site preparation is already underway and noted that construction will move quickly once work begins. “As the builders have said to me, ‘get ready—because we’re going to be moving fast,’” he told supervisors.
Funding for the project was included in the county’s current budget, with $65.5 million allocated for fiscal year 2026 and $62 million in each of the following two years. Once completed, the facility will consolidate several government departments now spread across multiple buildings—a move county leaders say will improve efficiency and public access to services while saving money over time.
However, not all residents are convinced. Some community members have criticized the project’s scale and cost, voicing their concerns on social media platforms such as Facebook and Nextdoor. The topic drew comment from one supervisor, who asked Rinehimer to be available to answer public questions about the project.
Rinehimer said he is happy to speak directly with residents, noting that he had already done so earlier that day. “We may not agree on whether it’s really needed or not,” he said, “but I want you to make that decision based on all the facts, not on things you might see on social media.”
Environmental impacts were also discussed. One supervisor asked about plans to remove trees on the site. Rinehimer explained that most are pine trees planted in the 1980s and that a tree buffer will be preserved around the property.
The project site will also include a new library, with $16.4 million budgeted annually over the next three years for its construction. Rinehimer said staff are collaborating with library administrators, architects, and builders to reduce costs where possible.
In addition, the county’s existing skatepark at the site has been closed to make way for construction. A new and improved skatepark is being designed at the Warhill Sports Complex, with a final virtual design workshop scheduled for Wednesday, November 5, from 6 to 8 p.m.
While some details remain under review, county officials emphasized that the Government Center represents a long-term investment in efficiency and accessibility for the community.
The writer used AI tools and these sources:
Video - Board of Supervisors Business Meeting – October 28, 2025
Agenda - Board of Supervisors Business Meeting - October 28, 2025
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