Middle Peninsula

With a skilled workforce of over 47,000 and an extended labor market of close to 1,000,000, the Middle Peninsula region provides a strong talent base. Middle Peninsula’s historic economy is based on natural resources such as farming, forestry, and fishing, and now has a developing base of industries like advanced manufacturing, professional services/government contracting, seafood and aquaculture, and research.

The region is predominantly rural, with large, scattered farms and forested tracts; close-knit waterfront communities; an active regional arts association; broad-based civic involvement; and an excellent transportation infrastructure that provides easy access to urban markets.

• Seven major interstates are within close proximity: I-64 (3 miles), I-95 (6 miles), I-295 (7 miles), I-664 (14 miles), I-564 (21 miles), I-264 (28 miles), and I-464 (29 miles).
• 14 four-lane highways in the region increase connectivity to interstates and markets.
• Freight rail service is provided by Norfolk Southern, offering a wide range of reliable and efficient shipping options.
• The Port of Virginia, offering the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast, is located approximately 60 miles southeast.
• Three regional airports provide general aviation services, and commercial air service is available from Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF – 23 miles), Richmond International Airport (RIC – 28 miles), and Norfolk International Airport (ORF – 49 miles).

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), a division of the College of William & Mary, conducts vital research into coastal ocean and estuarine science. VIMS has a three-part mission to conduct research, educate students and citizens, and provide advisory service to policy makers, industry, and the public. VIMS provides these services to Virginia, the nation, and the world. Chartered in 1940, VIMS is currently among the largest marine research and education centers in the United States.