Key Roles for William & Mary, Historic Triangle in Regional Growth, Says Business Alliance
Impact of local economic development cooperation presented to Williamsburg City Council
Williamsburg City Council members received an update earlier this week on regional economic development efforts, highlighting the Historic Triangle as a critical contributor to the region’s overall economic success. The presentation was delivered by Steve Harrison, Chief Operating Officer of the Hampton Roads Alliance, and outlined how the nonprofit public-private partnership works with 15 total localities and more than 100 private investors.
Harrison also noted that Williamsburg’s institutional assets, particularly the College of William & Mary, play an outsized role in the region’s goal to attract and retain businesses, grow the workforce, and strengthen economic resilience. For example, the College’s programs in computing, data sciences, physics, government and entrepreneurship position the schools as a strategic hub known for producing a strong talent pipeline, as well as attracting high-value employers and research partnerships.
According to the presentation given by Harrison, the Hampton Roads Alliance has identified several key industries in the region, including defense, energy, aerospace, and logistics (DEAL), with emerging opportunities in advanced manufacturing, IT, and food and beverage processing. Harrison stated that recent results show the alliance helped create more than 1,600 jobs and secured nearly $400 million in new capital investment across the region so far this year.
Another initiative discussed at the meeting is meant to support regional development. The Eastern Virginia Regional Industrial Facilities Authority (EVRIFA) is administered by the Hampton Roads Alliance, and allows its 12 member localities (including founding members Williamsburg, York County, and James City County) to collaborate on major development projects and share revenues. Other members include Virginia Beach, Portsmouth and Newport News. Williamsburg City Council Member Barbara Ramsey currently serves as the Chair of the EVRIFA Executive Committee.
The need for more build-ready sites was identified as one of the reasons that the region has lost out on recent large-scale business opportunities. One of EVRIFA’s current priorities is a project called Kings Creek Commerce Center in York County, a 433-acre industrial site that’s been prepared for advanced manufacturing, logistics, and distribution tenants. Project members include Williamsburg, York County, Newport News and Hampton.
The upcoming launch of the Hampton Roads Regional Investment Playbook on October 29, 2025 was also discussed at the Council meeting. The playbook is designed as a proactive roadmap for economic competitiveness, addressing global supply chain shifts, defense build-up, energy demand, and technology innovation. It highlights projects in defense manufacturing, autonomous systems, and regional innovation hubs, with Williamsburg and William & Mary positioned as central partners in executing these initiatives.
During discussion of the presentation, Council Members lauded the City’s participation in EVRIFA and the Hampton Roads Alliance, noting a dependence on broader regional strategies for economic success. Stated benefits include connecting to regional site development, workforce programs, and international economic networks.
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