Hampton Council considers rezoning for 400-unit development near Langley Air Force Base

A proposed high-density housing development near Langley Air Force Base has sparked intense debate during the Hampton City Council meeting on July 9, 2025. The project, which aims to address a critical housing shortage for incoming military families, has drawn both support and significant opposition from local residents.

Proponents of the development, including a representative from the planning staff, emphasized its strategic location and potential to provide much-needed housing for approximately 2,500 new residents associated with the Air Force base. They argued that the project aligns with the city’s land use policy and would not negatively impact traffic. "This will be a signature development," one supporter stated, highlighting the commitment of the developer to quality projects in Hampton.

However, local residents voiced strong concerns about the impact of the proposed housing units on their neighborhoods. Long-time resident Donald Heath expressed worries about the height and density of the buildings, stating they would disrupt the character of the area, which is predominantly single-family homes. He warned that the addition of hundreds of new vehicles would exacerbate existing traffic issues on Mercury Boulevard, a major thoroughfare already prone to congestion.

His wife, Connie Heath, echoed these concerns, questioning the adequacy of the traffic studies conducted for the project. She pointed out that the studies did not account for the full extent of traffic problems experienced by residents, particularly during peak hours. "I can't imagine 400 cars coming out of that little development onto East Mercury Boulevard," she said, highlighting the challenges faced by families trying to navigate the busy roads.

As the council deliberates the rezoning request, the outcome remains uncertain. The decision will not only affect the future of the proposed development but also the quality of life for existing residents in the area. The council is expected to weigh the need for housing against the concerns raised by the community in the coming weeks.