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EDA: 1117–1121 High Street roof, 1028 High Street demolition set; FY26 budget committee named
Summary
EDA staff told commissioners that roof and renovation plans for 1117–1121 High Street are nearly complete pending a Columbia Gas estimate, and that demolition plans for 1028 High Street are approved and expected to move to bid in the next 30–90 days.
Portsmouth EDA staff updated commissioners on several EDA-owned properties and on its FY26 budget calendar at the Feb. 18 meeting.
Julie Chop reported the EDA has received preliminary construction documents for a roof replacement at 1117 and 1121 High Street and interior renovations at 1117 High Street. She said the plans are effectively complete but the team is waiting on an estimate from Columbia Gas to run a gas line to 1117, which staff say is the most economical way to heat the building. “So plans are 99.9% done, but for that,” Chop said. Staff indicated that once Columbia Gas provides its response the bid package can be issued.
On 1028 High Street (the former Holmes property), Chop said demolition plans have been approved and Kimberly Horn has begun working on permit-ready demolition drawings; those plans are projected to be completed within 30 to 60 days. After permit approval staff said the EDA will assemble a bid package and expects a typical 30-day solicitation window; demolition and commencement of work are estimated at roughly 60–90 days from plan completion.
Staff noted the site will be marketed (Harvey Glen is managing marketing) and said they will update marketing materials after demolition so listings reflect the removal of existing improvements. Commissioners discussed interim uses for the parcel while long-term development decisions are pending.
The EDA chair announced the FY26 budget committee had been formed and will be chaired by the treasurer, Mrs. Sonder Smith, with Mrs. Cherry also serving; the committee is scheduled to begin work the week of Feb. 20 and staff said a draft budget would be presented at the board’s March meeting. Staff reiterated the EDA is on track to present a budget for adoption before the fiscal year start (reported as July 7).
The chair said the EDA’s annual retreat discussion was delayed to a closed meeting because it may relate to strategic property decisions within the Crawford Bay waterfront development and the Innovation District; the board later moved into a closed session under Virginia law to discuss acquisition/disposition strategy and investment of public funds.
The board voted to convene the closed meeting under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act exceptions for acquisition/disposition of real property and investment of public funds. The motion to convene the closed meeting was made and seconded; Vice Chairman Barber moved the motion and Commissioner Brown seconded. The board approved by roll call, 6–0, and later certified in open session that only the specified topics were discussed in closed session.
