Newsletter — October 2024

Dearest residents of Williamsburg,

This October “spooky” season has brought exciting developments and gatherings for our community. Here are some highlights:

• National Night Out: National Night Out has grown into an important annual event for Williamsburg, fostering police-community partnerships and neighborhood connections, which we got to celebrate on October 1st. Our Police Department has participated in this nationwide effort since 2014, bringing residents and first responders together for a memorable evening of food, fun, and camaraderie. It’s an ideal opportunity to strengthen the relationships that keep our community safe and connected.
• Highland Park Basketball Court Refurbishment: As part of our ongoing commitment to improve local recreational spaces, we are refurbishing the basketball court at Highland Park Community Park. Installed in 1976, the court is receiving an upgrade that includes acid washing, crack repair, fresh paint, and an additional goal. The community played a significant role in shaping the design, with the final look selected on May 28 and colors finalized on September 12. With a project budget of $117,450, this investment in Highland Park’s facilities is a valued addition for our neighborhood. The City Council voted in favor of this refurbishment at our October meeting.
• GIO Retreat: Every two years, the City Council meets to develop new Goals, Initiatives, and Outcomes (GIOs) to guide Williamsburg’s progress. This year’s process welcomed extensive community input through the National Community Survey, a GIO-specific survey, and eight interactive sessions during Future Festivals. Your feedback has been invaluable in helping us shape the city’s two-year work plan to reflect the needs and hopes of our community. Please stay tuned with this process as we will officially release the next GIO slate by the end of the year.
• William & Mary Homecoming: The campus buzzed with energy from Oct. 17–20 as over 4,000 William & Mary alumni, students, and staff gathered for Homecoming & Reunion Weekend. Under sunny skies, the community enjoyed a weekend of reconnections and celebrations — and a thrilling 35–28 football victory against Campbell! The picture above is President Katherine Rowe and Chancellor Bob Gates breaking ground on the new Gates Hall.

I am honored to serve you and look forward to the rest of this winter season. As always, please reach out if I can ever be of help.

Yours in service,

Caleb

**this Newsletter is mine alone and does not represent the input of the entire City Council