Hilton Village: A New AVMS Community Preserving Their Village & Fostering Local Entrepreneurship

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has designated Hilton Village as an Advancing Virginia Main Street (AVMS) community, along with eight other communities!

The City of Newport News’ Hilton Village entered Virginia Main Street‘s (VMS) two-year Mobilizing Main Street (MMS) program in January 2023. Through MMS, a new nonprofit organization, Hilton Village Main Street (HVMS), was established to lead the local Main Street initiative.

Historic Hilton Village was the first federally financed housing project during World War I. The historic district, which is listed on the National Register, mimics an English-village-style neighborhood with a strong commercial corridor and established event calendar. HVMS’ Board of Directors, along with Executive Director JB Brown-Crowley, have expanded their event heavy work plan into a comprehensive Four Point Approach.

In their first few years, HVMS will focus its efforts on strengthening Hilton Village’s local economy by creating a supportive and comprehensive entrepreneurial ecosystem for local small businesses—in particular, makers, producers, and artisans. Hilton Village is home to a well-established farmer’s market and many annual festivals that draw local and regional visitors (and vendors). HVMS will foster economic growth and enhance community livability by connecting entrepreneurs with available resources and move-in ready space, ultimately transitioning vendors into brick-and-mortar businesses within the district—something four businesses have recently accomplished with HVMS’ support.

HVMS is already proving to be a valuable community partner. With support from the city, they’ve worked to improve the district’s aesthetic by upgrading the historic lampposts throughout the district, and alongside the Architectural Review Board, they’ve kicked off a signage replacement and refurbishment program. All business signs throughout the historic district have been assessed and maintenance / replacement needs identified, and keep an eye out for the retired streetlight globes that will be repurposed in 2025.

To further their efforts, HVMS looks to strengthen their volunteer base and network of community partners. Local volunteers will be asked to serve on committees and empowered to take ownership of their community’s success; thus, ensuring that HVMS’ work reflects the needs and wants of the community.

Sustainable funding will be key to HVMS’ long-term success. While they’ve successfully secured financial support from the city through a Community Support Agency Grant, they will work to diversify their budget through grants, corporate sponsorships, donations, etc. over the coming year.

Virginia Main Street congratulates Hilton Village and looks forward to continuing to support their efforts toward achieving Main Street America Accreditation.