Governor Gilmore Announces New Dominion Pictures' Expansion in Suffolk

Company’s expansion in Suffolk will create 130 jobs, save 75

Richmond - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced New Dominion Pictures’ decision to remain in Virginia and expand its operations in the City of Suffolk. New Dominion Pictures, a producer and distributor of television programs, will invest $5.5 million in the expansion, which will initially bring 75 jobs to Suffolk. An additional 130 jobs will be created within 30 months. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina and Tennessee for the investment.

"We are delighted that New Dominion Pictures has chosen to remain in the Commonwealth," Governor Gilmore said. "Virginia’s commitment to the film and television industry will continue to serve as a considerable asset for this fast-growing company."

New Dominion Pictures has enjoyed tremendous growth in Virginia Beach since 1990. The company will move its studios to the former Atlantic Film Studio building and adjacent property in Suffolk. The nearby property will be developed extensively over the next 30 months to include back-lot settings such as a downtown, ranch, and suburban park.

"We are very excited about our growth and the opportunities in Virginia," New Dominion Pictures President Tom Naughton said. "We were attracted to a number of locations outside the Commonwealth, but Virginia’s teamwork of state and local officials kept us in Hampton Roads."

"This company will continue to have a promising future in Hampton Roads," Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal said. "We are pleased that New Dominion Pictures chose to remain in Virginia."

Governor Gilmore approved a $340,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist with the expansion of New Dominion Pictures. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance, and the City of Suffolk assisted the company with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.

"New Dominion Pictures and the Suffolk film studio are a logical match," Suffolk Mayor Dana Dickens added. "New Dominion will complement the rapidly developing Route 10 corridor with neighbors that include the recently announced $74 million new Obici hospital facility, the master-planned Hillpoint residential community and golf course, and Godwin Commerce Park."

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