Media Coverage & News

Explore the latest news stories, educational initiatives, position statements, and media coverage highlighting the Chesapeake Alliance’s work to promote informed dialogue, responsible economic development, and a strong future for the City of Chesapeake.

July 19, 2026
As Chesapeake continues evaluating policies related to data center development, the Chesapeake Alliance remains committed to promoting informed, fact-based dialogue. In this Virginian-Pilot opinion column, Chairman David Ropp shares the Alliance’s perspective on the opportunities, challenges, and long-term considerations surrounding this important issue. Click here to download the Virginian-Pilot article (pdf).

July 9, 2026
Chesapeake Alliance Chairman David Ropp presented four recommendations to the Chesapeake Planning Commission to strengthen the proposed Data Center Ordinance. Click here to download the Virginian-Pilot article (pdf).

June 17, 2026
Chesapeake Alliance Chairman David Ropp was featured in a 13News Now story on the proposed Costco redevelopment at the former Sears site in Greenbrier Mall. He discussed the project’s potential to revitalize a key commercial corridor and contribute to Chesapeake’s long-term economic growth. Click here for the story.

June 2, 2026
As part of its commitment to fostering informed community dialogue, the Chesapeake Alliance hosted Understanding Data Centers, an educational forum exploring the opportunities, challenges, and misconceptions surrounding data centers. Click here to watch 13News Now’s coverage of the event. Click here to watch the full video recording of the event.

June 2, 2026
WAVY News covered the Chesapeake Alliance’s Understanding Data Centers educational forum, where residents, business leaders, and industry experts came together to explore the facts behind modern data centers and address common misconceptions. The event reflected the Alliance’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue and providing balanced, fact-based education on issues shaping Chesapeake’s future. Click here for the story. Click here to watch the full video recording of the event.

May 12, 2026
As Chesapeake began developing guidelines for future data center projects, the Chesapeake Alliance remained committed to fostering informed community dialogue through educational forums and public discussions. WTKR highlighted the City’s efforts to establish a thoughtful framework for evaluating future proposals. Click here for the story.

April 30, 2026
As part of its commitment to fostering informed community dialogue, the Chesapeake Alliance hosted an educational forum Exploring Virginia’s Evolving Energy Landscape. Sponsored by Dominion Energy and featuring energy industry veteran John Larson, the event examined the opportunities and challenges shaping the Commonwealth’s energy future, including grid reliability, renewable energy, nuclear innovation, natural gas, and growing electricity demand. Click here to see the presentation.

April 30, 2026
The Virginian-Pilot reported on Chesapeake’s efforts to develop new policies for future data center projects, including the formation of a citizen advisory committee. The Chesapeake Alliance was pleased to have one of its members selected to serve on the committee, contributing business and community perspectives to help shape thoughtful, balanced recommendations for the city’s future. Click here for the story.

Oct 9, 2025
The Chesapeake Alliance hosted an educational member-guest social  and educational forum featuring Chris Lloyd, Partner at McGuireWoods, who presented an informative overview of the data center industry. The discussion explored current trends, economic opportunities, infrastructure considerations, and the policy issues shaping one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Commonwealth. Click here to see the presentation.

Jan 28, 2025
The Chesapeake Alliance’s “Let’s Get Social” event provided an opportunity for business and community leaders to connect, build relationships and learn more about the Alliance in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy great conversation, refreshments and meaningful networking while discovering how the Alliance is helping shape Chesapeake’s future through informed dialogue and collaboration. Click here to watch the video.

Oct 22, 2024
WHRO News featured the Chesapeake Alliance’s Housing Task Group as it presented recommendations to address the city’s growing housing affordability challenges. The report calls for policies that encourage a broader mix of housing options—including multifamily development—to help ensure Chesapeake remains an affordable, competitive, and economically vibrant community. Click here for the story.

Oct 24, 2024
The Chesapeake Alliance unveiled a bold vision to address the city’s housing affordability crisis, calling for the creation of 15,000 new homes over the next decade. The proposal outlines practical strategies to expand housing opportunities, strengthen the local workforce, and support Chesapeake’s long-term economic growth. Click here for the WAVY News story.

Oct 22, 2024
The Virginian-Pilot highlighted the Chesapeake Alliance’s call for a comprehensive strategy to address the city’s housing affordability challenges. The Alliance’s Housing Task Group recommended adding 15,000 new homes over the next decade to expand housing opportunities, support the local workforce, and strengthen Chesapeake’s long-term economic competitiveness. Click here for the story.

Oct 21, 2024
The Chesapeake Alliance hosted Housing on Tap, a community educational forum focused on Chesapeake’s housing crisis. With one of the highest housing inflation rates in the nation, the event brought together community members to explore the challenges and discuss potential solutions. Click here for the story on 13News Now.