The Annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair will take place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on August 5 from 4-7PM. This FREE, family event takes place in conjunction with National Night Out to promote safety, wellness, crime prevention, neighborhood unity, and of course, fun! This event is the perfect opportunity to connect with your community while enjoying live entertainment, games, kids’ activities, raffles, and more. Plus, meet local organizations and learn about important safety resources from Hampton’s first responders. Whether you’re networking, promoting your business, or just out for a good time, Neighborhood Night Out is a can’t-miss celebration of community spirit.

Local Police, Fire and Sheriff’s department will be on-hand to demonstrate safety vehicles and equipment. Kid-friendly activities include face-painting, balloon animals, games, music, and more!

Register

District Businesses related to health, safety or crime prevention are invited to participate at no cost. This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Deadline to register is July 12. Click HERE to register. 

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day. Is your business or organization hosting an event? Our events calendar  is the perfect way to share your Coliseum Central events and happenings. Our robust calendar allows you to include photo, category, social links, description and more.

The City of Hampton held a ribbon-cutting on April 10th to introduce the Sensory Activation Vehicle (SAV) to the public. Originally purchased by the Coliseum Central BID, the SAV was donated to the city in order for the community to rent the vehicle for a public and private events including school functions, sporting events and community gatherings to provide a calming environment for individuals with special sensory needs or conditions.

The vehicle, which is wheelchair-accessible and climate-controlled, provides a mobile sensory space that can serve as a soothing sanctuary for people of all ages with “invisible disabilities” such as autism, Parkinson’s, post-traumatic stress disorder or other conditions that can be triggered or agitated by loud or crowded conditions at public events. For more information about the Sensory Activation Vehicle, CLICK HERE.

The Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on April 25th for the B.J. Roberts Behavioral Health Center (300 Marcella Road). The 20,000 square foot facility specializes in assisting those who are experiencing an urgent mental health crisis. The center will be open 24/7 and provides a calming environment with spaces for counseling, in-patient treatment, community rooms and emergency medical services.

Spring is in full bloom and there’s no better way to celebrate than at the Hampton Master Gardeners Association’s Annual Plant Sale! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 10th from 9AM-2PM at Bluebird Gap Farm (60 Pine Chapel Road), where you’ll find a vibrant selection of plants, including perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and native plants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this is a fantastic opportunity to stock up on high-quality plants, get expert advice, and support a great local organization. Don’t miss out. Arrive early for the best selection and watch your garden thrive this season. For more information, CLICK HERE.

May 13th at 9am | Security Committee

May 15th at 9am | Marketing Committee

May 15th at 10:30am | Physical Improvements Committee

May 20th at 9am | Board of Directors

Please join us in the BID office at 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 550 or virtually.

Coliseum Central is showcasing district businesses as part of our billboard campaign. There is no cost to participate. Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the artwork and businesses will have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns will run for up to two weeks at three locations – I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east and westbound) and High Street in Portsmouth. If you would like to participate, please CLICK HERE. If you have any questions, please contact Raymond Tripp at rtripp@coliseumcentral.com.

In Hampton Roads, numerous city-wide and regional festivals and events bring communities together each year. However, many individuals with invisible disabilities and sensory impairments, such as stroke, Parkinson’s, PTSD, dementia, and autism, are often excluded due to lack of accommodation. This exclusion leads to isolation and prevents these individuals and their families from enjoying these community gatherings.

To address this issue, Coliseum Central purchased a Sensory Activation Vehicle (SAV) to create a more inclusive environment at such events. The SAV is a mobile, wheelchair-accessible, and climate-controlled space equipped with interactive sensory stations and comfortable seating, offering a calming and sound-proof environment for attendees requiring respite. Coliseum Central donated the SAV to the city of Hampton to ensure use throughout the community.

Reserve the SAV for your event!

Organizations, businesses and event planners are able to rent the SAV for use at community events, festivals, school functions and other events via the city of Hampton website. Coliseum Central businesses are eligible to reserve the SAV at a reduced daily rate of $200. For more information, to explore the vehicle, and to rent it for your next event, CLICK HERE.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day. Is your business or organization hosting an event? Our events calendar  is the perfect way to share your Coliseum Central events and happenings. Our robust calendar allows you to include photo, category, social links, description and more. Submit your events via the Submit an Event form HERE.

Could your business use additional help this Summer? Hampton’s Office of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities is accepting applications from local businesses to employ Hampton youth and young adults ages 16-24. Employees may work up to 20 hours per week from June 16-August 22. Students are matched with businesses based on their interests and availability. There is no cost to businesses. All program participants are paid by the Office of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities.

For more information contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities at 757-727-2745 or email Hugo Morrison at hugo.morrison@hampton.gov. To apply, CLICK HERE.  The deadline to apply is May 2.

Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings | Peninsula Town Center, 3969 Kilgore Ave

Jade Bowl | Coliseum Crossing, 41 Coliseum Crossing

Pizza Twist | Coliseum Crossing, 106 Coliseum Crossing

April 15th at 9am | Security Committee

April 17th at 9am | Marketing Committee

April 17th at 10:30am | Physical Improvements Committee

April 22nd at 9am | Board of Directors

Please join us in the BID office at 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 550 or virtually.

Coliseum Central has a number of matching grant programs in place to help you promote your business and improve its safety and curb appeal. For more information about grant programs and to apply, CLICK HERE.

Security Camera Grant Program

This grant helps business and property owners enhance the safety of their property. Funds may only be used for installation of exterior security cameras to businesses or property in the District which will be connected to the Hampton Police Division’s Real Time Information Center.

Security Improvement Grant

The Security Improvement Grant matches up to $2,500 of physical improvements to enhance the level of security and safety of businesses or public spaces. A Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design survey must be conducted by the Hampton Police Division Community Relations to be eligible for funding.

The Physical Improvement Grant

The Physical Improvement Grant provides matching funds of up to $10,000 to businesses owners who seek to improve the exterior appearance of their property. Funds may be used for facade, landscaping and/or public beautifications. Applicants must submit a plan for facades and streetscape improvements containing a description and illustration of planned improvements and an itemized budget, including design, installation, and fabrication costs. Free professional design consultation is provided to approved applicants of the grant program.

Marketing Sponsorship

Coliseum Central is a proud sponsor of many community organizations and events. The Marketing Committee meets monthly (excluding February and December) to review submitted sponsorship applications and funds will be administered, budget permitting, based on the proposed goodwill as well as the marketing benefit received. Sponsorship applications must be received no later than 60 days prior to date of your event.

District stakeholders and business partners attended the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting to network, learn and celebrate the theme of “innovation”. Jenny Crittenden of Retail Alliance discussed retail and consumer trends. Police Chief Wideman and Mayor Gray shared messages and Park Lane Tavern and U Rock Art provided tips for customer service and social media, respectively. We would like to thank all presenters, vendors and other contributors to the program. Click here to view program, award winners, video recap and full recording.

Ambassador of the Year: Ruth Hendricks

Best Customer Service: sweetFrog

Best Financial Institution: Langley Federal Credit Union

Best Health & Wellness: YMCA Health & Wellness Center

Best Hotel: Embassy Suites

Best Kid-Friendly Business/Attraction: Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Best Medical Practice/Facility: Sentara CarePlex Hospital

Best New Business: sweetFrog

Best Restaurant: Park Lane Tavern

Best Retailer: U Rock Art

Best Shopping Center: Peninsula Town Center

Best SWaM Business: U Rock Art

Best Social Media Presence: U Rock Art

Best Vibe/Aesthetic: sweetFrog

Coliseum Central would like to welcome the Board Members who were elected during the Annual Meeting – Donna Frazier (Holiday Inn Express), Pam Parrish (Southeastern), Dee Richardson (Atrium Hospitality), Andy Ruckman (First Team Hampton Chevrolet) and Corban Vanriper (Target).

Coliseum Central would like to thank the following Board Members whose terms have ended for their commitment and service to the District – Melissa Holt (Chicken Salad Chick), Akhil Jain (Landmark Hotel Group), Donna Meland (Nicholas & Meland Family Eyecare), Philip Scottie (Philip Michael Fashion for Men) and Marcellus “Boo” Williams (State Farm).

The next Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 26 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

The annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair will take place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center on August 13 from 4-7PM. This FREE, family event takes place in conjunction with National Night Out to promote safety, wellness, crime prevention, neighborhood unity, and, of course, fun!

Local Police, Fire and Sheriff’s department will be on-hand to demonstrate safety vehicles and equipment. Kid-friendly activities include face-painting, balloon animals, games, music, and more! Each year, hundreds of families attend the event to enjoy entertainment and learn more about District businesses. This is the perfect opportunity to be part of a well-attended and advertised tradition.

District Businesses related to health, safety or crime prevention are invited to participate at no cost. This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Deadline to register is July 12. Register HERE.

Ivy Glam Spa & Wellness | Peninsula Town Center, 3420 Von Schilling Drive | 757.827.2395

Shah’s Halal Food | Peninsula Town Center, 3150 Allainby Way | 703.373.0433

Coliseum Central’s Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 25 from 8:30-10:30AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. This year’s theme is “Innovating Retail: Trends, Social Media and Exceptional Service for Tomorrow’s Success.”  Jenny Crittenden, President & CEO of Retail Alliance, will serve as the keynote speaker and discuss Retail Trends while Chad Batten of Park Lane Tavern will discuss Customer service, and Caroline Peabody of U Rock Art will discuss the Impact of a Strong Social Media Presence.

The meeting will also include messages from Mayor Jimmy Gray and Police Chief Jimmie Wideman, as well as an awards ceremony highlighting the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses.

If you work, conduct business, own property or have another vested interests in Coliseum Central, we encourage you to attend! This event is free and open to all members of the BID. RSVP at: news.coliseumcentral.com/annual25. Registration ends on February 17. 

Get the latest news and updates from Coliseum Central in your inbox!  Occasionally there may be information we’d like to share beyond this monthly newsletter. If you are a property owner or operate a business in the district, please subscribe to our e-mail list by signing up here on our website: coliseumcentral.com/subscribe-to-our-newsletter

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Businesses located within Coliseum Central’s boundaries are encouraged to take advantage of the many tools and resources available on our website. The Do Business section of the website caters to those businesses, property owners, and investors within the boundaries of our district, and the tools provided should be used to help navigate operating a business and/or property in the district. This includes, but is not limited to the benefits of being located within BID boundaries, our services, clean and safe resources, marketing opportunities, and more. More specifically, the BID Member Benefits page is the central hub for sharing important information about our efforts to boost Coliseum Central’s vibrancy and support district businesses.

Coliseum Central partnered with Vistity to create a 360-degree Virtual Tour of the Coliseum District. This tour provides a unique and immersive way for potential investors, businesses, and visitors to explore the district and discover all that it has to offer, making it easier for potential investors and businesses to get a better sense of what it’s like to be in the area. Property owners can utilize this tool when looking to lease space or develop property, while business owners should be sure to add your business as a point of interest on the tour with a brief description, photos, video and website.

Coliseum Central is showcasing district businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns.  Each campaign has a theme and highlights businesses using fun taglines. There is no cost to participate.

Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the artwork and businesses will have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns will run for up to 2 weeks at (3) locations — (2) on I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east and westbound) and (1) on High Street in Portsmouth, reaching motorists heading to I-664.

Upcoming campaigns include Health & Fitness and Spring (spring break, spring cleaning, etc.). If your Coliseum Central Business fits these categories and you would like to participate, please visit: news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard.

If you have any questions, please contact Raymond Tripp at rtripp@coliseumcentral.com.

The Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 25 from 8:30-10:30AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. Jenny Crittenden, President & CEO of Retail Alliance, will serve as the keynote speaker and discuss retail trends. The meeting will also include messages from the Mayor Jimmy Gray, Police Chief Jimmie Wideman as well as an awards ceremony highlighting the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses. If you work, conduct business, own property or have another vested interest in Coliseum Central, we encourage you to attend! This event is free and open to all members of the BID. Formal invitations will be mailed shortly. RSVP now at news.coliseumcentral.com/annual25. 

Coliseum Central wants to know who’s #1 in your book. Vote for the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses at events.coliseumcentral.com/best-of by January 31. Winners will be announced at the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting held on February 25. 

Best Customer Service: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog, U Rock Art 

Best Health & Wellness: Latitude Climbing & Fitness, Onelife Fitness, YMCA Health & Wellness Center 

Best New Business: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog 

Best Shopping Center: Coliseum Crossing, Peninsula Town Center 

Best Financial Institution: Bayport Credit Union, Langley Federal Credit Union, Navy Federal Credit Union 

Best Kid-Friendly Business/Attraction: Marys Park, Sky Zone Trampoline Park 

Best Restaurant: Chicken Salad Chick, Monsoon Eclectic Modern Indian, Panera, Park Lane Tavern

Best Social Media Presence: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art

Best Vibe/Aesthetic: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog, U Rock Art 

Best Hotel: Element Hotel, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn 

Best Medical Practice/Facility: Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Sight 2 See Optometry 

Best Retailer: JCPenney, Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art 

Best SWaM Business: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Feeling overwhelmed by the daily grind? Sign up for Retail Alliance’s Retail Therapy Retreat taking place on February 2-3 at the Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg. This weekend-long event will allow you to to refocus your energy, recharge, and connect with like-minded women. The event includes: Keynote by Eva DeVirgilis TEDxWomen speaker, award-winning playwright, and advocate for women’s empowerment, a stay at the Kingsmill Resort, complimentary dinner, drinks, breakfast and lunch, insightful workshops, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions.

Visit retailalliance.com/events/retail-therapy-2025 for more information and to register.

January 16th — 9am | Marketing Committee

January 16th — 10:30am | Physical Improvements Committee

January 21st — 9am | Security Meetings

January 28th — 9am | Board of Directors

All Meetings are held in the BID office 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 550. 

Coliseum Central is showcasing District businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns. Each campaign will have a theme and will highlight businesses using fun taglines. The Fall & Winter campaigns included marketing highlighting area dining. 

There is no cost to participate. Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the artwork and businesses will have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns will run for up to two weeks at three locations – two on I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east-and westbound) and one on High Street in Portsmouth, reaching motorists heading to I-664.

Our next campaigns include Health & Fitness, Valentine’s Day and Spring events (spring break, spring cleaning, etc.). If your Coliseum Central Business fits any of these categories and you would like to participate, please visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard and:

Deadline to submit materials is January 27. If you have any questions, please contact Raymond Tripp at rtripp@coliseumcentral.com.