Homeowners oppose Newport News apartment complex citing traffic and privacy concerns

The Newport News Planning Commission meeting held on July 10, 2025, focused on a proposed apartment complex that has sparked significant community concern. The meeting featured discussions from both supporters and opponents of the project, highlighting the potential impact on local residents and the surrounding neighborhood.

One of the primary concerns raised was the proximity of the proposed three-story building to existing homes. Residents expressed fears that the new complex would obstruct their views, reduce privacy, and increase traffic congestion in an area already burdened by heavy traffic from nearby Fort Eustis. Teresa Craver, a board member of the Woodcreek homeowners association, emphasized that the complex would be too close to property lines, leading to noise and congestion issues. She noted that the addition of approximately 240 cars from the new units could exacerbate existing traffic problems, particularly at the intersection of Jefferson and Woodcreek, where a recent fatality occurred.

Another resident, Lloyd Nepp, argued for maintaining the historical character of the neighborhood, which has primarily been single-family homes. He suggested that the proposed apartments could be relocated to a different site that has been abandoned for years, thereby preserving the integrity of the area.

Tatiana and Anton Raccoon, who live adjacent to the proposed site, voiced concerns about the loss of privacy and potential decreases in property value. They highlighted that the planned construction would bring three-story buildings close to their home, significantly impacting their living conditions. They questioned whether the developers would offer any compensation for potential declines in property value resulting from the new construction.

The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the community's concerns, as many residents expressed a desire for a more suitable development that would not disrupt their quality of life. The Planning Commission is expected to review these concerns as they move forward with the decision-making process regarding the proposed apartment complex.