Planning for $8.7M Park in Grove Community Advances
James City to begin vetting design-build contractors for project expected to be completed in 2027
James City County recently updated the status of the development of Grove Community Park, a new six-acre recreation space along Pocahontas Trail, stating that the selection process for the design-build contractor is expected to be completed early next year. The project will then move forward with public input and refined designs, with the County stating that construction of the park should be completed in 2027.
In the County’s budget for fiscal year 2026, the Board of Supervisors allocated a total of $8.7 million for the park: $1.3 million in FY2026 for design and engineering costs associated with the park and $7.4 million in FY2027 for construction.
In their description of the project, County officials assert that the project as a long-term effort to create a safe and accessible park featuring walking trails and fitness opportunities as well as picnic and gathering spaces. Three parcels totaling 5.90 acres at 8744, 8736, and 8736A Pocahontas Trail were acquired by James City for the project site. The corner lot includes wooded land, a section of Skiffes Creek, and direct access to Pocahontas Trail.
Grove community history
Grove is recognized as the largest African-American community in James City County, with a history shaped by displacement and resettlement. The neighborhood sits along Pocahontas Trail, bordered by industrial and military facilities as well as major tourist attractions. The Naval Weapons Station Yorktown lies to the north, while industrial zones stretch across the east and south.
Once sparsely populated, Grove grew rapidly in the 20th century as African-American families were forced from their homes to make way for military installations. In 1918, the establishment of the Navy Mine Depot near Yorktown displaced hundreds of families from “the reservation” in York County, many of whom resettled in Grove. Later, 100 families from the historically Black communities of Magruder and Bigler’s Mill were also relocated to Grove after they were displaced when the Navy acquired land for Camp Peary during World War II.
The County asserts that residents in the community face a range of economic and health burdens. For example, median household income in Grove is $46,875 compared to $80,226 County-wide, and child poverty exceeds one-third of the population. Life expectancy in the neighborhood is just 74 years, six years lower than the County average. Their research indicates that Grove residents contend with poor walkability, limited access to essential services, and the absence of parks and recreation space.
Prior Recreation Study
James City County has recognized the need for a dedicated park in Grove since the 1980s and officials state that planning for Grove Community Park builds on community input gathered through earlier efforts.
In 2017, James City County formed the Grove Neighborhood Advisory Committee, which launched the Grove Community Recreation Analysis survey in early 2018. More than 200 residents responded, identifying a pool, fitness equipment, walking trails, picnic shelters, basketball courts, playgrounds, and computer access as top priorities.
While the desire for a pool topped the list, residents repeatedly emphasized the need for safe, paved, lighted walking trails and large picnic shelters with restrooms and kitchens to support family and community gatherings. In response to the survey, the County’s Parks & Recreation department soon implemented improvements at the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, including renovated basketball courts, expanded youth sports classes, and free swim programs with transportation provided.
Next Steps
The County is now in the early stages of selecting a design-build team to oversee the park’s design and construction. Officials expect to complete the selection process by February 2026, after which detailed design work will begin. Grove residents will have additional opportunities to provide input during that phase.
County staff emphasize that while many of the requested amenities—such as a pool or expanded walking trails—remain part of long-term goals, they will require future capital funding and Board of Supervisors approval. James City County Parks & Recreation continues to explore property acquisition opportunities and evaluate existing facilities to meet these needs.
The writer used AI tools and these source:
James City County - Grove Community Park update - September 16, 2025
James City County Parks and Recreation - Grove Community Recreation Analysis - 2018